School of Criminal Justice

Legal Studies Major

The Legal Studies Major


 

The American Bar Association approved baccalaureate program in Legal Studies prepares students to fulfill professional roles as paralegals and in related occupations, as well as to pursue graduate study at law school or in other fields, such as criminal justice or social justice. Grounded in a commitment to liberal education, the program provides students with a solid foundation of knowledge, critical thinking, cultural competency and professional skills that are essential to success in the legal field. The program promotes a respect for diversity, and also seeks to prepare students to make ethically sound and appropriate decisions in response to the challenges presented to them in their professional and personal lives. The program's mission is accomplished through studies which focus on:



1. Mastery of substantive knowledge critical to the legal profession, including principles of legal ethics and legal restrictions on the unauthorized practice of law;

2. Critical thinking skills;

3. Mastery of basic investigative and legal research techniques;

4. Proficiency in oral and written communication;

5. Development of appropriate professional behavior and job-seeking skills.

Paralegals need to be able to think logically and analytically, to present facts and conclusions in a clear, concise manner, to write effectively, to utilize ingenuity during fact-finding, and to exercise good judgment. All of these skills can be nurtured and perfected within the academic environment offered here at Grand Valley State University.

Faculty Members
Degree Requirements and Courses of Instruction
Frequently Asked Questions
Legal Studies Career Links
LS Scholarships and Program Activities

GVSU Legal Studies Facebook Page

Apply for Admission to Grand Valley's Legal Studies Program! 
GVSU ADMISSIONS ONLINE

 

Legal Studies Student Survey:

Current GVSU Legal Studies students: The Legal Studies program and Career Services have developed a survey on student interests to help inform program planning and student development. The survey takes only a couple of minutes to complete. Please go to the link here and share your interests and needs. Thanks in advance for being part of this planning and development process. 

 

Page last modified July 18, 2012