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.
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.
Study law from every angle
Gain a broad perspective on the law by studying political science, history, sociology, philosophy, and peace and conflict studies.
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.
Curiosity. Chance. Choices. Personal growth. Community. Leadership. These are the hallmarks of Quinn’s experience at Waterloo.
About the Legal Studies program
Available as a 
Apply via Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business
Earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Legal Studies
International exchanges in 25 countries
Offered by the Faculty of Arts
Available as a major and minor
Legal Studies admission requirements
- Ontario students: 6 Grade 12 U and/or M courses including any Grade 12 U English (minimum final grade of at least 70%)
- Admission average: Low 80s (co-op and regular)
- Not studying in Ontario? Search our admission requirements.
- An Admission Information Form is recommended.
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.
Careers in Legal Studies
Graduates with a Legal Studies degree often find careers working in law firms, human resources, management, legal departments of companies and businesses, security services, retail, and education to name a variety.
- Legal Assistant, RZCD Law LLP
- Summer Law Student, Ministry of Attorney General
- Associate, Richardson GMP Limited
- Human Resources, Loblaw Companies
- Legal Assistant, Bruder Springstead LLP
- Legislative Services Coordinator, Resort Municipality of Whistler
- Student Support Counsellor, Ministry of Education, Ontario
- Teacher, Trillium Lakelands District School Board
First-year Legal Studies courses
September to December
LS 101 - Introduction to Legal Studies
SOC 101 - Introduction to Sociology
Arts First requirement 1*
2 additional courses
January to April
1 Legal Studies (LS) course, such as
• LS 222 - Juvenile Delinquency
• LS 271 - Conflict Resolution
• LS 286 - Law and Popular Culture
Arts First requirement 2*
3 additional courses
After first year
40% of the classes you’ll take will be Legal Studies courses. With your remaining classes, you can choose electives from many of the 100 subject areas at Waterloo. With so many options, you can choose the courses that match your interests.
Sample upper-year courses
Customize your Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies degree
You can also add additional areas of interest and expertise by including a minor (or minors) as part of your degree.
Gain relevant work experience through co-op
Sample co-op job titles
- Legal assistant
- Law clerk
- Business analyst
- Legal office assistant
- Project administrator
- Marketing associate
Sample co-op employers
- Blake, Cassels & Graydon
- Riders Plus Insurance Inc.
- Ontario Ministry of Finance
- Peel Regional Police
- Mentor Works Ltd.
- CIBC
Learn more about Legal Studies
- Email Samantha Wiebe, our Arts recruitment co-ordinator, who can answer any questions about Legal Studies
- Visit the Legal Studies website
