Program Overview

Introduction to the Legal Studies Major

The Legal Studies Major at Ball State University is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in the legal profession, including positions in government, public law, and business law. This program is one of fewer than 300 approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) out of over 1,000 paralegal education programs in the country.

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

Quick Facts

• Delivery: On Campus
• Credits: 69
• American Bar Association (ABA) approved program

The Legal Studies Major is perfect for students thinking about a career in the legal profession. Students take courses in a variety of legal practice areas, including family law, civil and criminal litigation, constitutional law, administrative law, and business law. They learn legal theories and practical skills that result in graduates who are career-ready to work as paralegals. Note that paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law, under the supervision of an attorney.

Major Requirements

The Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies includes the University Core Curriculum in addition to a common core of legal studies coursework. Students then take focused coursework depending on which option they choose: Public Law or Business Law. Legal Studies majors must also complete an internship where the student works with practicing attorneys and paralegals.

Transfer Credit

Ball State does accept transfer credit. However, transfer credit for legal specialty coursework completed outside of Ball State's legal studies program is limited and subject to individual review. Legal Studies majors must take a minimum of 12 credit hours of legal specialty coursework at Ball State University.

Program Goals and Objectives

• To provide and continuously refine a high-quality program for the education of competent paralegals.
• To offer a program that strengthens respect for the rule of law in our society and encourages students to recognize the long-term educational and career commitment necessary for success as a member of the paralegal profession.
• To provide an environment in which students can build a solid academic foundation in areas including general education, writing & communication, and legal specialty subjects.
• To help students gain knowledge and experience in technology applications as used in the paralegal profession.
• To support the principles of ethical legal practice, responsibility to the law, professional standards, and prohibitions against the unauthorized practice of law.
• To help students apply the classroom knowledge and written exercises in an internship in order to provide critical learning experiences in a real legal environment.
• To help students develop strong networking skills through discussion and dialogue with practicing attorneys, judges, prosecutors, and paralegals on campus and in the community.

Professional Memberships for Students

Students are encouraged to begin networking and engaging in the legal community right away. Legal Studies students can join the American Bar Association (ABA) for free, and the Indiana Paralegal Association (IPA) is a great resource for career exploration and opportunities.

Paralegal Certification

Through a partnership with the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) Assurance of Learning Partner Program, Legal Studies students have the opportunity to take their first national certification exam pre-graduation at a reduced cost. Successful test takers will be conferred with the certification of CORE Registered Paralegal upon graduation.

Concentrations

Public Law

This option is for students interested in government, politics, public policy, and how the law is involved in these areas. It includes a diverse group of classes that provide an excellent overview of many areas of public law.

Business Law

This option is a good choice for students interested in business organizations, insurance, finance, and accounting, or those interested in managing a law office. The course offerings give students an excellent overview of the role of the law in everyday business transactions.

Computer Recommendations

Students entering the Department of Political Science will need to possess a personal computer. The College of Sciences and Humanities provides recommendations for the specifications students need to excel in their coursework.

Department Scholarships

On top of the dozens of scholarships the university offers its students, the Department of Political Science gives awards every year to its own students to recognize them for their achievements.