Legal Studies

Bachelor of Science

120 Credits
School of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Dobbs Ferry

Legal Studies Overview

Mercy’s legal studies program prepares graduates for careers in law by providing a strong undergraduate education emphasizing communication, leadership, technology and ethics.

Using a ‘Practice Ready’ approach Mercy’s program is structured to give students a real world, legally-oriented education which leads to the attainment of marketable skills.

Whether a student wants to pursue a career in business or a life practicing law, a bachelor’s degree in legal studies offers them academic training that prepares them for both the workforce and graduate-level study.

Program faculty are attorneys who will help you develop:

oral communication skills
writing and critical thinking skills
techniques of successful negotiation and mediation

*Please note that this Specialization does not prepare students for a career as a Paralegal and that the Specialization in Legal Studies is not approved by the American Bar Association.

A Legal Studies student in the Mercy College Library (Legal Section).

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Legal Studies program are prepared for law school as well as careers in politics, non-profit advocacy, interest representation and conflict management.

Our graduates enjoy careers as...

Business Analysts
Compliance Officers
Contract Negotiators
Court Administrators
Employee Relations Managers
Healthcare Compliance Officers
Law Firm Administrators

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does earning a degree take?

Full-time students can complete the 120-credit degree program in four years.

Are department faculty available for academic advising?

Yes, faculty are always ready to help students with questions about what courses to take, the sequencing of courses, and career opportunities, including internships.

Faculty are also available for law school application and career advising. Many faculty members have assisted in placing students given their vast networks and contacts in the legal community.

Do you have online courses?

Yes. Many of our major courses are taught online on a rotating basis.

What are the benefits of majoring in Legal Studies?

The Legal Studies major provides a strong foundation for students interested in attending law school. The program helps you develop the oral communication, writing and critical thinking skills needed to be successful in the legal profession. The Legal Studies major also provides the student with the skill set necessary for a career in government, politics or public administration.

Am I eligible for induction into an honor society?

Yes. With 75 degree credits and 21 major credits (and overall GPA at least 3.3, major GPA 3.4), you are eligible for induction into Pi Gamma Mu, the National Honor Society for the Social Sciences.

Program Details & Curriculum

Curriculum Overview

General Liberal Arts and Sciences

General Education Requirements: 60 Credits

Major Concentration
Legal Studies: 36 Credits
Open Electives: 24 Credits

Total: 120 Credits

For a full curriculum listing visit our catalog.

Program Outcomes

By the end of this program, students should be able to:

Identify and explain both federal and state governments and their respective court systems
Conduct research which effectively integrates primary source material
Critically analyze and interpret the law; evaluate the legal arguments
Apply ethical concepts to legal and political situations

Academic Program Sequence Map

Download a copy of the sequence map for: