Legal Studies (BA)

The College of General Studies' Bachelor in Legal Studies was ranked number one in an article titled “The 25 Best Bachelor in Legal Studies Degree Programs” by TheBestSchools.org.

The organization selected Pitt’s program based on several weighted factors, such as academic excellence, course offerings, faculty strengths, and reputation (including reputation for online degree programs).

A broad understanding of the American legal system—and how it impacts individuals and society—is an important foundation for many careers, from social services to insurance to law enforcement.

The interdisciplinary legal studies major at the College of General Studies prepares you for a variety of law-related careers, as well as provides groundwork for graduate study or law school. We offer a diverse array of courses, and you’ll have the flexibility to choose electives in the areas of law that interest you, from First Amendment rights to the criminal justice system.

A legal studies minor is also available.

Requirements

Students must earn a minimum of 120 credits for the Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in legal studies. Of this total, 30 credits make up the major, which is satisfied by taking courses to complete the core requirements, legal studies electives, and outside electives.See our General Education program page for the remaining requirements.

Flexible Format

Many CGS programs offer a blend of face-to-face and flexible online class formats, all designed to meet our students' needs and schedule constraints. CGS online offerings are marked with (Web) or (Hybrid) on program website.

Core Requirements: (6 credits)

The following courses are required:

^{Format: F2F and Web}

^{Format: Hybrid available as of Fall 2021}

^{Note: Cross-listed with PS 1213}

Legal Studies Electives: (18 credits)

Choose six electives from the following list:

^{Format: F2F and Web}

LEGLST 0200 - RACE, CLASS, GENDER, AND THE LAW (available as of Fall 2021)

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^{Format: Hybrid}

Outside Electives: (6 credits)

The final degree requirement is completion of six credits (two courses) from a list of approved electives outside of legal studies. The following represents approved courses from various departments:

^{Note Title Change as of Fall 2021: ADMJ 0100 INTRODUCTION TO LAW, CRIMINAL JUSTICE & SOCIETY}

^{Format: F2F and Web}