Legal Studies

Launch Your Career in Law

The Legal Studies Degree at the University of Memphis offers students a flexible and comprehensive pathway into the legal profession, and is fully available online through UofM Global. This Bachelor of Legal Studies program provides a solid foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of law, equipping graduates with the skills needed to provide valuable legal support services in a wide range of settings. Whether you are preparing to continue your education in law school or seeking to enter the workforce directly, this professional studies degree is designed to prepare you for success in the dynamic field of legal studies.

The Legal Studies Program focuses on four core disciplines to provide a well-rounded education in law:

1. Theory, Process, Application, and Ethics of Law – students gain an understanding of the foundational principles that govern the legal system and the ethical considerations involved in legal practice.
2. Legal and Administrative Research and Investigation – students develop essential research skills that are crucial in legal research and in building effective case strategies.
3. Law-Related Technologies – students learn to use modern tools and technologies that enhance legal work, including legal databases and case management software.
4. Professional Decorum and Communication Skills – students master the professional etiquette and communication skills needed to interact effectively in legal and professional environments.

While only licensed attorneys can practice law, well-trained legal support staff, such as paralegals and legal assistants, play a critical role in supporting law firms, government agencies, courts, healthcare organizations, and other law-related entities. Legal Studies graduates possess unique skill sets that make them indispensable in addressing critical legal issues, regulatory compliance, and policy matters.

The Legal Studies curriculum is available as both a major and a minor and can be completed entirely online through UofM Global, providing maximum flexibility for students balancing professional and personal commitments. Additionally, highly qualified students may take advantage of the 3+3 Program, an accelerated pathway that allows students to complete their Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) degree and Juris Doctor (JD) degree in just six years in collaboration with the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. This unique program provides a seamless transition to law school, allowing students to fast-track their legal education.

By earning an the legal studies degree online, students are prepared to enter a variety of fields, including criminal justice, corporate law, healthcare law, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Whether you choose to enter law school or start working in the legal field directly, this program offers the foundational knowledge and skills to excel in the practice of law and legal support roles.