Program Overview

University Program Details

The university offers a Pre-Law program, which includes several courses designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal profession.

Course Descriptions

• PRELAW 150 | THE PRACTICE OF LAW | 2 quarter hours (Undergraduate) This course explores the legal profession, engaging students in a broad-ranging discussion of lawyers and their work, in both historical and contemporary perspectives. Students examine the portrayal of the legal profession in popular culture, including in film and literature, and explore the concept of ethics in the legal profession. The course includes field trips to key sites where lawyers work throughout the city of Chicago. Status as a 3+3 BA/JD student is a prerequisite for this class.
• PRELAW 151 | RECENT CONTROVERSIES IN THE LAW | 2 quarter hours (Undergraduate) This course addresses a timely topic of significant legal interest, such as gay marriage, affirmative action, or campaign finance. The topic varies according to current events and instructor interest. Students use current topics to explore the broader theme of the relationship between law and society, particularly law's relationship to social change. Readings include multi-disciplinary perspectives, such as law, political science, philosophy, economics, and history. The course is designed to further develop students' critical thinking skills. Status as a 3+3 BA/JD Student and PRELAW 150 are prerequisites for this class.
• PRELAW 152 | THINKING ABOUT THE LAW | 2 quarter hours (Undergraduate) This course explores the concept of jurisprudence, helping students understand traditions of legal thought in the American legal system. Students explore the law from different vantage points, including those of judges, lawmakers, lawyers, philosophers, and clients. Major themes of the course vary each year but typically include reflections on justice, punishment, rule of law, and other key foundational topics. Students engage in significant writing assignments to develop the advanced writing skills necessary for success in law school. Status as a 3+3 BA/JD Student and PRELAW 151 are prerequisites for this class.

Program Requirements

• Status as a 3+3 BA/JD student is a prerequisite for PRELAW 150.
• Status as a 3+3 BA/JD Student and PRELAW 150 are prerequisites for PRELAW 151.
• Status as a 3+3 BA/JD Student and PRELAW 151 are prerequisites for PRELAW 152.

Program Structure

The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the legal profession, including its history, contemporary perspectives, and ethical considerations. The courses are structured to develop critical thinking and advanced writing skills, necessary for success in law school.