If you’re planning to get a career in law, you will need to prepare well in advance before law school. Make the most of your undergraduate years by pursuing a degree that will prepare you for a graduate law program. While some colleges and universities offer a major in pre-law, most do not. Law schools will analyze your GPA in conjunction with how challenging your major is, and while the American Bar Association does not endorse a specific major, there are some majors that may better prepare you for success in law school better than others. As you choose your undergraduate major with the intention of applying to law school, here are some majors to consider.
History
A foundation in history can be beneficial in law school, giving you a better understanding of the development of the American legal system. Additionally, you may learn about landmark court rulings, treaties, other political systems, and the development of legal systems in other countries. Later in your career, this knowledge of precedents and legal history may be helpful. If you succeeded in your high school history classes and are fascinated by the progression of historical events and the transformation of societies over time, then a major in history may be well-suited for you.
Business
Majoring in business can be a smart path for pre-law students to follow, and since the degree plans tend to be more rigorous, it may be more appealing to law schools. Because business coursework can be heavy in reading and writing, it can prepare you for the LSAT in addition to helping you in your career. Public speaking, contract structure, business processes, and more may be covered in these programs. A specialized business degree can either be incredibly beneficial or irrelevant. For example, a marketing degree has little relevance to a legal career, but a major in business may be best for those looking to pursue a career in corporate law.
English
English coursework focuses on reading and writing, including reading comprehension and persuasive writing. The skills that students develop in this major enable them to quickly process written information to create organized and analytical arguments. Other skills that a curriculum in English will help hone include critical thinking, grammar, and etymology. These are core skills covered on the LSAT and can contribute greatly to a strong performance in law school and the professional world.