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Policy making and governance can be drivers of positive change that benefit communities, families and individuals. The Bachelor of Arts in Government with an Emphasis in Legal Studies at Grand Canyon University offers a unique pathway, combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on application.
Offered by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, this legal studies emphasis can serve as a foundational framework for those interested in pursuing entry into law school or public service. As a student in this Bachelor of Arts in Government program, you are exposed to an intensive exploration in research and writing that challenges you to develop your critical reasoning capabilities, communication skills and sense of servant leadership.
If you are interested in learning more about this undergraduate degree, we have answered frequently asked questions about the program and related careers.
From a simple standpoint, legal studies examine the law from all viewpoints. It looks at the theory of how the law works and how it affects society. The curriculum in a legal studies degree can often be applied with a variety of law-related careers due to the breadth of the legal topics covered.
A legal studies emphasis can be a valuable investment for anyone looking for a career in law, politics or any business-related profession. This program covers a broad range of law topics and legal disciplines to help prepare you for diverse career opportunities.
No, legal studies is not the same as a paralegal. Legal studies covers many law topics and careers, paralegal being one example. A paralegal is the name for a specific career in law that assists lawyers and attorneys for any legal matter. Paralegals play an important role in the preparation and organization of a case and are sometimes the steppingstone job toward becoming a full-time lawyer or attorney.
Graduates with a bachelor’s in government degree are taught foundational knowledge and skills that can prepare them for careers in many different fields, including law. Other fields that may be of interest are government, education, business, healthcare, real estate, nonprofit and consulting.1
While a bachelor’s degree is required to apply to law school, most schools do not require a specific undergraduate degree. However, if you are considering law school, earning a degree with a legal studies specialization can help prepare you by building your knowledge and skills in law processes and terms, ethics, research, writing, communication and analytical thinking.
Led by experienced faculty, you will have the opportunity to acquire foundational knowledge and skills such as the following:
Study the founding principles of the American government, as well as its constitutional framework and governing institutions. Historical perspectives and contemporary legal issues are also examined in this on-campus and online legal studies emphasis program.
Additionally, you will be taught a fundamental understanding of legal database research, writing skills and law school concepts that go beyond what is typically available from a two-year paralegal program.
With its concentrated focus on the principles of a legal, ethical and constitutional society, this degree can prepare you to apply for entry into law school.
1 Indeed. (2022, Aug. 16). 13 Jobs You Can Do With a Legal Studies Degree. Retrieved on Feb. 8, 2024.
Up to 90 credits, only 84 can be lower division
Credits: Fill out the Lopes Eval to find out what will transfer
Admission Requirements (Bachelor's)
OR 2.5+ Unweighted GPA and
Admission requirements may differ based on degree level, program and modality, or transfer status. Some programs of study may require a higher GPA and/or other qualifying criteria for admission. Please review full admission and program requirements in the University Policy Handbook.
*Math and reading only on a 1600 point scale (test date after 3/1/2016). SAT score of 1380 required for 2400 point scale (test date before 3/1/2016).
The interdisciplinary nature of this legal studies emphasis program can prepare you for a wide range of career fields. For example, this Bachelor of Arts in Government program can prepare you to take on challenges in the criminal or civil law fields.
Some key industries to consider as a graduate of the bachelor’s in legal studies emphasis degree are:
Government
Education
Healthcare
Law Enforcement
Consulting
Real Estate
GCU is a private Christian school that integrates the Christian worldview into each curriculum. In the Bachelor of Arts in Government with an Emphasis in Legal Studies degree program, there is a focus on the value of servant leadership. You will explore the theories and application of Christian ethics into the decision-making process throughout the program.
Based in policy and politics, this program provides an interdisciplinary approach that is rooted in a classical liberal arts education and examines the intersections of the following disciplines:
Communication
Justice studies
Philosophy
Business
Theology
As a student, you are encouraged to practice critical analysis while exploring the negotiation and resolution of legal issues. You will examine the growth of American democracy from its colonial roots to the development of the Constitution to contemporary topics. Explore the foundations of the law and legal philosophy and examine how these time-tested concepts are applicable to modern legal and governance decisions.
