If you’ve decided to explore a career in law, Western Michigan University has a four-year pre-law study plan and advisors available to help you create an individual program that will position you to apply to law schools of your choice.

No special college program is required or recommended by most law schools. Generally, law schools urge a solid four-year program leading to a bachelor's degree. As long as you receive a quality education featuring critical analysis, logical reasoning, and written and oral communications, any WMU major is acceptable. Most often chosen are English, business, political science, history and economics, but such disciplines as philosophy, anthropology, mathematics, sociology, natural sciences, engineering, education, fine arts and aviation are also suitable majors.

Keep in mind: A strong GPA is essential to getting into law school. One of the best ways to get good grades in college is to select a major that aligns with your strengths and interests, rather than one that you feel obligated to be in. If you're having trouble choosing a major, an advisor can help you find a good fit.

Regardless of your major, you’ll want to take these essential courses:

Writing, such as English and business communication.
Legal reasoning, such as administrative law, constitutional law and business law.
Awareness of the structure and processes of government, such as national government, legal environment and judicial processes.
Structure and development of American business, the American historical experience, economics and logic.

After you graduate

The legal profession is highly competitive, and students finishing law school are not guaranteed financial success if you have the confidence and record to compete in the legal market, you can build a rewarding and satisfying career. As a pre-law student, you will be advised to cultivate other career alternatives. It is wise to have other options in case admission to a law school does not materialize or circumstances require a year or two of gainful employment prior to beginning law school. Developing career alternatives is a form of insurance and should be a primary consideration as you choose your major and minor.