Legal Studies

 
 
 

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UNDERSTANDING OF THE LAW

The Legal Studies minor at Morningside University is designed to provide students with a strong understanding of the law and the legal system while complementing your major. This interdisciplinary program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for a variety of careers, offering a rich curriculum that covers topics such as constitutional law, criminal justice, and legal ethics. Ideal for students with an interest in law, politics, or public service, the Legal Studies minor enhances critical thinking, logical reasoning, and effective communication, positioning students for success in law school and beyond.

Degrees

Legal Studies

Minor

Why Study Legal Studies?

Morningside University’s Legal Studies minor helps students develop a deeper understanding of the legal system while strengthening critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills. The program complements a wide range of majors and prepares students for graduate study and law-related careers.

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS

  • Flexible minor that complements many majors
  • Personalized faculty mentorship
  • Strong preparation for law school and related graduate programs
  • Coursework focused on legal systems and reasoning

THE MORNINGSIDE DIFFERENCE

Internships

You will have the opportunity to attain specialized skills while gaining experience in your potential career through an internship or summer research internship. Focus on a particular area of interest while working closely with faculty or site supervisors.

Travel

You will have the opportunity to travel regionally, nationally, and even internationally for professional conferences, industry field trips, or May Term courses. Travel grants and special scholarship eligibility may be available.

Research & Active Learning

Research is encouraged and celebrated at Morningside. You may choose to study alongside a professor, pursue independent research, or participate in events such as the Palmer Research Symposium.

What Can I Do With This Minor?

The Legal Studies minor complements a wide range of majors by providing students with a strong understanding of the legal system, critical reasoning, and analytical thinking. Students develop skills in legal research, argumentation, ethics, and communication that prepare them for careers in law, government, business, public service, or graduate and professional study.

  • Government Relations Specialist
  • Attorney (with additional education)
  • Legal Assistant
  • Paralegal
  • Court Clerk
  • Contract Administrator
  • Policy Analyst
  • Administrative Analyst
  • Compliance Analyst
  • Contract Specialist

Students who complete the Legal Studies minor are prepared to contribute in legal, governmental, corporate, and nonprofit settings where knowledge of the law, critical thinking, and effective communication are essential.

  • Public Policy Organizations
  • Small Law Firms
  • Large Law Firms
  • Private Practice
  • State Government
  • Federal Government
  • Municipal Government
  • Corporations and Businesses
  • Nonprofit and Advocacy Organizations
  • Courts and Judicial Offices

Legal Studies students explore the foundations of the American legal system while developing skills in legal reasoning, research, ethics, and advocacy. Coursework emphasizes critical thinking, argument analysis, and the application of legal principles to real-world issues, providing excellent preparation for law school or careers in law, business, government, and public service.

WHY STUDY AT MORNINGSIDE?

13:1

student/faculty ratio so you’re assured a quality education focused on you

99%

employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation

65+

majors & pre-professional programs available

Still looking for the right fit? check out some additional program options that we think might interest you or are often paired with this program. You can also view the programs page to keep exploring your options.

MEET THE FACULTY

Patrick McKinlay

Patrick McKinlay

Professor • Board Faculty Representative

Patrick’s Profile
Chase Privett

Dr. Chase Privett

Assistant Professor of Political Science

Chase’s Profile

Next Steps

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See for yourself all that Morningside has to offer.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available. Learn how you can qualify.

Apply Now

Take the next step towards building your future.

Contact Us

Our admissions team is eager to answer your questions about this program and how to apply.

Lewis Hall Illustration