Undergraduate Legal Studies at Oregon
At the University of Oregon, students don’t have to wait until law school to study law. Through our Legal Studies minor, students from any major can explore how legal systems work and law shapes society. Through that lens, you’ll develop the analytical and critical thinking skills to understand complex legal and social issues. Whether preparing for law school or simply seeking a deeper understanding of justice and public life, you’ll gain practical knowledge and critical skills that can be applied across a wide range of professions.
Legal Studies is designed for those interested in justice, public policy, advocacy, dispute resolution, and civic engagement. Housed in Oregon’s only public law school, the minor gives you access to law faculty, practicing attorneys, and other legal professionals while exploring how laws are created, interpreted, challenged, and reformed. You’ll gain real-world perspective on the legal profession through coursework, events, and networking opportunities with judges, attorneys, and other law-adjacent professionals. The program emphasizes the relationship between law and society, and the role individuals can play in creating positive change.
Curriculum Overview
Explore the foundations of the U.S. legal system, criminal law, international law, and conflict resolution.
Examine contemporary legal issues involving constitutional law, immigration, environmental policy, human rights, race and the courts, and social justice.
Develop skills in critical thinking, legal reasoning, research, argumentation, and problem solving.
Learn through interdisciplinary coursework that connects law with fields such as business, political science, journalism and communications, ethics, environmental studies, and global affairs.
Careers in Legal Studies
Whether preparing for law school or exploring diverse career pathways, a Legal Studies minor provides valuable skills that translate across industries. Career pathways span law, public policy, government, business, advocacy, compliance, mediation, human resources, education, and nonprofit administration. Graduates may pursue roles such as legislative assistants, policy analysts, human resource professionals, community advocates, paralegals, social workers, educators, and court or government representatives.