Legal Studies
What makes a law unjust? Which children are most at risk for becoming part of the juvenile justice system? What role has race played in the evolution of democracy? If these are the types of questions you like to ask (and answer), then legal studies might be the right program for you. This major is designed for students who prefer a broad, interdisciplinary approach to learning, and want the freedom to explore different topics throughout the social sciences.
What will I learn?
Political science. U.S. history. Philosophy. Sociology. These are just a few of the subjects you’ll study as you learn about the origins of law, how the law is applied and the impact of legal institutions throughout society. There are a few required courses, but you'll get to choose most of your classes based on your interests. You'll also be able to take interdisciplinary courses that focus on combining expertise from different areas to solve complex challenges.
Law vs. Legal Studies
- Law teaches you how the law impacts other fields—from banking to the arts and entertainment—so you can apply it in your career.
- Legal studies takes a broader look at the role of law in society, including social and philosophical aspects.
What can I do with a legal studies degree?
Can you go to law school? Yes—but you certainly don't have to. While some of our grads go on to law school or grad school in a related field, many also choose to start working right away.
Our alumni have had successful careers within many different types of organizations, including:
- Corporations:
- MetLife.
- Government agencies:
- City of Buffalo.
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
- New York City Police Department.
- New York State Office of the Attorney General.
- New York State Police.
- New York Supreme Court.
- U.S. District Court.
- Law firms:
- Brown Brothers Harriman.
- HoganWillig.
- Nonprofit organizations:
- Brooklyn Legal Services Corporation.
By the Numbers
Check out salary ranges and career outlooks straight from the U.S. Department of Labor to see the return on investment for your degree.
| Occupation Title | Mean Annual Wage | Mean Hourly Wage | Future Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $72,030.00 | $34.63 | |
| Legal Support Workers, All Other | $54,460.00 | $26.18 |
Data provided by the and DOL data from 2024.