Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Legal Studies is designed to provide undergraduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in environments which require an understanding of legal concepts. The curriculum addresses the application of writing, research, analysis, ethics, and communication in a legal setting and includes a focus on American constitutional governance.  The major in Legal Studies offers a general concentration as well as specific concentrations in the Paralegal Profession and in Business Law. This degree provides a strong foundation for students seeking challenging work in diverse legal settings, and for further study in legal and related disciplines.  Students completing the BA in Legal Studies with Paralegal Professional Concentration will meet the qualifications required to sit for the Paralegal Core Competencies Exam (NFPA), to sit for the Certified Paralegal Exam (NALA), and to work as a paralegal within the state of California.

Program Mission Statement

The mission of the Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Legal Studies is to empower students to be dynamic, ethical problem-solvers who effectively apply critical thinking, analytical and research skills in a legal context.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Legal Writing: Demonstrate proficiency in legal writing.
• Governance: Demonstrate an understanding of modern American constitutional governance.
• Ethics:  Apply ethical practices to situations in a legal environment.
• Legal Research: Demonstrate proficiency in current legal research methods.  
• Communication: Apply communication skills in such areas as negotiation, arbitration, mediation, dispute resolution, and interviewing.
• Legal Analysis: Apply critical thinking and analytical skills in a legal environment.