An online bachelor’s degree in legal studies program may provide students with training and knowledge in legal theory and practice. Students enrolled in these four-year programs may study the relationships between society and law, evaluate theory and principles of natural law and civil rights, and apply legal principles to social and economic issues. Coursework within these programs may combine general education requirements along with electives and major-specific courses, such as legal philosophy, criminal law, and legal research.

Graduates may either seek out entry-level employment or further their education and enroll in a graduate-level degree program in legal studies. Bachelor’s degree graduates may find employment opportunities in local, state, and governmental agencies.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Four years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Master’s / Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 7% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online bachelor’s-level program in legal studies may combine general education requirements along with major-specific courses and electives. In these four-year programs, students may perform legal research, edit legal documents, and become proficient in writing memoranda. Core online legal studies courses may include the following:

• Litigation and Trial Practices
• Criminal Law
• Legal Research
• Business Organizations
• Law and Society
• Torts
• Legal Philosophy

Career Options

Graduates of an online bachelor’s-level program in legal studies may find job opportunities working for the local, state, and federal government. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing a career as a judge, mediator, or hearing officer are expected to increase by 7% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Court Clerk
• Claims Examiner
• Adjudicator
• Legal Support Worker
• Arbitrator

Continuing Education

Graduates of online bachelor’s degree programs in legal studies may continue their education and enroll in a master’s degree program in legal studies or related field. Students enrolled in these upper-level programs may study legal theory, the role of the legal system, and the role of law within society.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook