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UND School of Law
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Legal Studies Minor

Study law and society.

Supplement your education with a minor in Legal Studies and develop a deep appreciation of how law impacts several aspects of our daily lives.

Program type:
Minor
Format:
On Campus
Est. time to complete:
3-4 years
Credit hours:
21
  • Requirements
  • How to Apply

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Why minor in Legal Studies?

When you take Legal Studies at UND, you'll gain valuable insight into how law encompasses the way we live, work and play. This interdisciplinary program will examine the ideas of law, as well as its institutions and practices. It also supports a liberal arts framework that connects law to different academic methods and theories to help advance your understanding of law and society.

Because you'll be learning about law rather than how to practice law, this minor is a great first step toward law school and a career as a lawyer. It is also suitable for those interested in pursuing careers in legal services, public service and the nonprofit sector.

3+3 Law Program

UND’s specialized 3+3 track allows you to earn your bachelor’s degree while getting on an accelerated the law school track early.

What majors pair well with a Legal Studies minor?

Combining a Legal Studies minor with certain majors can enrich your understanding of legal principles and expand your career opportunities within legal and related fields. Here are some bachelor’s degrees that pair well with a Legal Studies minor:

  • Criminal Justice Studies Degree: Provides students with a comprehensive understanding of legal processes and criminal law, preparing them for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice administration, and legal advocacy.
  • Economics Degree: Understanding economic principles and policies is beneficial for careers in regulatory affairs, economic policy, or financial law.
  • Forensic Science Degree: Equips students with knowledge of legal procedures and forensic techniques, preparing them to work effectively within legal systems as forensic scientists or criminal investigators.
  • History Degree: Provides students with a historical perspective on legal systems and societal developments, enhancing their understanding of legal traditions and contextualizing contemporary legal issues within broader historical narratives.
  • International Studies Degree: Offers insights into global legal systems, international law, and diplomacy, preparing students for careers in international organizations or government.
  • Philosophy and Ethics Degree: Develops critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills, providing a strong foundation for legal reasoning and ethics.
  • Psychology Degree: Provides insights into legal psychology and mental health law, preparing students for careers in forensic psychology, legal advocacy, or roles involving psychological assessments within legal contexts.

Legal Studies Program at UND

  • Great for those interested in working as a Paralegal, Court Liaison, Corrections Officer or Policy Coordinator.

  • Provides the opportunity to be taught in a Year 1 Law School simulation class.

Legal Studies Minor Courses

A&S 351. Introduction to Law and Legal Studies. 3 Credits.

Segments on Contracts, Criminal Law, Constitutional Law, and Torts, taught in customary law school manner to acquaint undergraduates and others interested in exploring a career in the legal profession with law school methodology and legal analysis. Prerequisite: Junior or Senior standing. S.

CJ 341. Criminal Law. 3 Credits.

This course covers the fundamentals and foundations of American criminal jurisprudence with an emphasis on common law definitions of crimes and modern requirements for the criminalization of behavior, statutory laws. Prerequisite: CJ 201, CJ 210, CJ 220, and CJ 270; or Forensic Science major; or Legal Studies minor. F,S.

PHIL 371. Philosophy of Law. 3 Credits.

An investigation of the nature of both law and legal reasoning. Study of the nature of law focuses on theories of natural law, legal positivism, and legal realism. Legal reasoning concerns justified interpretation of precedent and statute within the common law tradition. Additional topics dealt with as time allows, encompass such issues as the justification of punishment and enforcement of morality. F.

PSYC 362. Psychology and Law. 3 Credits.

Psychological examination of the legal system, including what psychologists have learned about the law, the many different legal topics psychologists study, and the great promise that psychology holds for improving the legal system. Prerequisite: PSYC 111. F.

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