Pre-Law Cheat Sheet
Pre-Professional Programs
Law School (J.D.)
What is a Juris Doctor (J.D.)?
A J.D. (Juris Doctor) is the perfect degree to lead to a
range of law-related careers and can be an important
background and stepping stone for careers in government,
business, higher education, health care, communications,
and many other fields. Legal Practice is intellectually
challenging and requires the use of ethics, reason and
judgment.
How do I prepare for law school?
 Choose a major that interests you. This is your
opportunity to study what you really like. Law schools
will look at how you performed in your discipline. A
solid GPA will be expected—especially in your major.
Taking courses outside your major also demonstrates an
intellectual curiosity that is important for law school.
 Create opportunities for yourself to provide service to
others, participate in research, join the pre-law club,
and volunteer to work at law firms. Take initiative and
show leadership.
Where can I get more information?
 American Bar Association (ABA):
http://www.abanet.org
 Law School Admission Council (LSAC):
http://www.lsac.org
What core skills & values do I need for law
school?
A sound foundation for a legal education includes important
skills, values, and knowledge. The American Bar
Association indicates the importance of these skills
including:
 Analytic/problem solving skills
 Critical reading
 Writing skills
 Oral communication/listening abilities
 Research skills
 Task organization/management skills
 Interest in public service and promotion of justice
Taking the LSAT
 The LSAT is offered 4 times a year—generally in
February, June, October, and December.
When to take the LSAT
Applying In
LSAT Date
Spring
February
Summer
June
Fall
October
Winter
December
Pre-Law Minor Courses
PLS 101: American Government
Core Courses
15 Hours
PLS 300 & PLS 301: Constitutional Law
PLS 305: Criminal Justice System
PLS 310: Legal Philosophy
Skills Courses
Related Courses
3 Hours
ACG 201, COM 101, 223, 257, 423, 425, ENG 204,
PAR 110, or PLS 498
6 Hours
BLA 261, 361, 363, 371, 461, COM 361, CRM 105,
110, 255, 307, 310, 315, 320, 330, 350, 370, 375, 380,
381, 385, 390, 405, 410, 420, 425, 450, 455, 460, EVS
362, 462, FST 304, MGT 456, PAR 220, PED 379, PLS
204, 329, 426, SOC 449, or SWK 311