By examining the social, political, and historical processes of law, students learn the ethical functions of the legal system and its implementation in society. Required core and elective coursework examines law through the lenses of sociology and political science, enabling students to appreciate the role of the judicial system within the broader social context. This major is also offered at the Rockland Community College extension site.
Academic Requirements
In addition to fulfilling general degree requirements and the Senior Capstone course (AHU 4800 or CSS 4800), students must complete the following requirements for this major:
| 1. | Humanities courses | 15 credits |
| 2. | Natural sciences courses | 15 credits |
| 3. | Social sciences courses, including: CSO 1510/Introduction to Criminal Law and CSO 1590/Introduction to Civil Law |
15 credits |
| 4. | Performing and/or visual arts courses | 6 credits |
| 5. | Upper-level courses: a. Social sciences courses, including: CSO 3065/Legal Research and one of the following: CPO 3050/American Constitutional Law CPO 3185/The Nature and Function of Law CSO 3475/Law and the Family CSO 3481/Censorship b. All in humanities courses or all in natural sciences courses |
12 credits 8 credits |
| 6. | Legal studies electives | 15 credits |
| 7. | General electives (may include up to 30 non-liberal arts credits) |
34 credits |
| TOTAL: | 120 credits |
Please refer to the Overview of Academic Requirements for additional information.
Pre-Law Advisor
Law schools are interested in students with strong liberal arts backgrounds who can (a) think analytically and creatively and (b) communicate their arguments effectively and persuasively. The college’s pre-law academic advisor, usually a member of the political science faculty in the School of Natural and Social Sciences, can suggest specific courses that help pre-law students hone their oral and written communication skills and stimulate meaningful conversations about legal issues. For additional information, please visit the Advising Center at www.purchase.edu/departments/advising
center/prelaw.