Online Pre-Law Schools: How to Choose

Students may choose among many different types of undergraduate degree programs to prepare them for law school, as long as the program includes particular requirements set forth by the American Bar Association. Popular areas of study include political science and justice studies. Although rare, a few schools offer online associate degree programs specifically in pre-law that are designed to transfer to 4-year school.

How to Choose an Online Pre-Law School

American Bar Association Guidelines

The American Bar Association (ABA) does not require one particular degree program for pre-law students, but it does suggest several key courses and relevant undergraduate programs that prepare students for law school. It recommends degree programs that encourage problem solving, critical thinking, reading and writing skills, oral communication, listening and general research skills (www.abanet.org). Many colleges design pre-law curriculums specifically to fit these requirements and some such programs are available online. These are often found as online programs that mention fulfilling law school course requirements or as a pre-law track. Some schools also offer online advisors that help students make sure they are meeting the prerequisites required for admission to law school.

Area of Study

Most law schools consider the applicants undergraduate GPA and Law School Admission Test (LSAT) score when determining admissions. Because pre-law degree requirements are not designed for a single degree, students may want to consider an area of study that they will both enjoy and excel at in order to earn high grades and improve their admission standings. Common online degree programs for pre-law students include political science, criminal justice, history, journalism, philosophy and business.

Partial List of Online Pre-Law Programs

Online Associate of Science Pre-Law Program

This online program is designed for students who plan on transferring to a 4-year school upon completion. It includes courses in many of the fields that are required for admission to law school, such as speech, the humanities and behavior sciences. This is typically a fully online program that may be completed entirely over the Internet.

Online Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society

An online Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society program is often specifically designed to give students the skills and tools they need to gain entry to law school. The degree program focuses on teaching students about the American legal system, including how to write a law brief, legal ethics and how law affects society. Students typically correspond with professors via e-mail and with classmates through discussion threads on a forum. Online programs that deal with law may also make electronic law libraries and other legal resources available to their students.

Online Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies

Online justice studies bachelor's degree programs may be used in a variety of different professions, including those that involve the correctional system. Students who pursue justice studies, however, take many of classes that prepare them for law school. Students in a fully online program in this field often use education portal software that combines forums, instant messaging and real-time testing capabilities.

Online Bachelor of Arts in History

Undergraduate programs in history are available online from several colleges and universities. Pre-law students often enroll in a U.S. history track and take classes in the American Revolution, women in history and state government. Students enrolled in online history programs use interactive learning communities, such as Blackboard, and e-mail to communicate with professors and complete assignments.