Hi, I'm a high school junior and I've been thinking about majoring in pre-law in college. What are some schools that have good pre-law programs? Any advice would be great!
Hi there! It's essential to note that "pre-law" is not an actual major in most colleges, but rather an advising track or a series of recommended courses in preparation for law school. Law schools accept students with various undergraduate majors, so you're not limited to studying only "pre-law." Instead, focus on colleges with strong overall reputations and rigorous programs in fields that interest you, such as political science, philosophy, or history.
That being said, there are some colleges known for their strong pre-law advising, resources, and guidance for students interested in law school. Here are a few schools to consider:
1. Yale University
2. Harvard University
3. Stanford University
4. Columbia University
5. University of Chicago
6. Duke University
7. University of Virginia
8. University of Pennsylvania
9. University of California, Berkeley
10. Georgetown University
These schools have extensive resources for pre-law students, as well as strong connections to top law schools. When evaluating colleges, consider the following factors:
- Pre-law advising: Look for schools with dedicated pre-law advising staff who can guide you throughout your undergraduate years.
- Legal studies or related majors: While the choice of major is less important, having access to coursework in law-related fields (e.g., legal studies, political science, philosophy) can be helpful.
- Internship opportunities: Schools located near legal centers like Washington D.C., New York City, and San Francisco often have better access to government, nonprofit, or law firm internships.
- Law school placement: Research where graduates of the undergraduate institution typically enroll for law school and their success rates in getting accepted.
It's crucial to choose an academic environment where you will thrive academically and personally, so you'll be better prepared for the rigorous law school application process. Good luck with your search!
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