Pre-law studies and a law degree are flexible programs. While many individuals take a traditional path and become practicing attorneys, many others use their legal training to work in business or other professions. To become a licensed attorney, three years of law school is required beyond college leading to the Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree.
Preparation for law school is a continuous process. It involves planning an undergraduate program that develops the skills necessary for the successful study of law; learning about the law profession and career options; and participating in activities (extracurricular, volunteer, internships, related employment) that enhance and build on classroom learning.
Skills deemed most essential by law schools are written and verbal communication abilities, an organized and logical thought process, analytical reasoning, research, and strong habits of thoroughness, tenacity, and intellectual curiosity.
Please review the Pre-Law Fact Sheet at the right for information about suggested experiential opportunities available to UWM students, career outlook for lawyers, and options for your major. Pre-Law is not a major, and students must still choose a major. Common majors for students interested in going on to law school are political science, philosophy, history, and English, but law schools do not require any particular major. A student from any major can go on to law school. Our specialized pre-law advisor works with students to ensure they understand all of the milestones that must be met in college in order to be a competitive applicant to law school.
A suggested timeline is also available to help you plan preparatory activities throughout your four years in college.
Additional Resources
- Law School Application Personal Statement Guidelines
- List of Law Schools
- Law School Admissions Council
- CLEO Scholars
- American Bar Association Career Center
- National Association for Law Placement Pre-Law Portal
- Equal Justice Works
- Equal Justice Guide to Law Schools
- Law School Admissions Test (LSAT)
- Discover Law