Judge the impact of the legal system (no gavels required)
Law touches virtually every aspect of society. That makes a degree in Legal Studies great preparation for a career in government, business, the non-profit sector, law enforcement, and (of course!) law itself.
At Waterloo, you’ll enjoy small classes led by highly respected researchers, giving you lots of opportunity for discussion, and you'll also have the opportunity to gain work experience through co-op.
Over the course of your Legal Studies undergraduate degree, you’ll explore the impact of law on society, the origins of legal systems, how the Charter of Rights and Freedoms creates change, and issues such as crime, deviance, punishment, and restorative justice.
You’ll graduate with skills in research, problem solving, critical thinking, and communication, along with an in-depth understanding of law and legal systems.
Faculty:
Faculty of Arts
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies
Available as a co-op program?
Yes
Available as a regular program?
Yes
Available as a minor?
Yes
Get serious work experience. Choose the co-op system of study and apply your knowledge in law firms, government offices, business, technology companies, and more.
Study law from every angle. Gain a broad perspective on the law by studying political science, history, sociology, philosophy, and peace and conflict studies.
Co-op = relevant paid work experience
By alternating school terms and paid co-op work terms throughout your degree, you can explore new career areas and types of employers as your career interests evolve.
Sample co-op job titles
- Legal assistant
- Law clerk
- Business analyst
- Legal office assistant
- Project administrator
- Marketing associate
Co-op work-study sequence
Starting in second year, you'll normally alternate between school and work every four months, integrating your classroom learning with real-world experience. You can return to the same employer for a couple of work terms to gain greater knowledge and responsibility or work for different employers to get a broad range of experience.
Option one: If you choose to study Legal Studies through Honours Arts and Business, your first work term will be in the winter term of second year.
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Off |
| Second | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Third | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fourth | Study | Co-op | Co-op |
| Fifth | Study | Study | - |
Option two: Your first work term will be in the spring term after second year, if you choose Honours Arts.
| Year | September to December (Fall) | January to April (Winter) | May to August (Spring) |
|---|---|---|---|
| First | Study | Study | Off |
| Second | Study | Study | Co-op |
| Third | Study | Co-op | Study |
| Fourth | Co-op | Study | Co-op |
| Fifth | Co-op | Study | - |
Admission requirements
Ontario students
Six Grade 12 U and/or M courses including
- any Grade 12 U English (minimum final grade of at least 70%)
Admission average: High 70s
Not studying in Ontario?
Search our admission requirements for Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business.
How to apply
Apply to Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business and choose Legal Studies as your major at the end of first year.
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