Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies (Optional Co-op)

Application Fees : CAD$ 251

Undergraduate Entry Requirements:

1. Academic Achievement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Waterloo are expected to have a minimum academic achievement of 80% or above in their secondary school studies.  

2. English Language Proficiency: The accepted English language tests and their minimum score requirements are as follows:

   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.5 in writing, 6.0 in reading, 6.0 in listening, and 6.5 in speaking.
   • TOEFL: Minimum score of 90 on the Internet-based Test (iBT).
   • PTE: Minimum score of 63.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 120.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to the University of Waterloo. The university receives a large number of applications and admission decisions are based on a holistic assessment of various factors, including academic performance, test scores, personal statements, and letters of recommendation.

The University of Waterloo offers several scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community. 

1. International Master's Award of Excellence: This scholarship is available to international students entering a research-based master's program. It provides funding of up to $2,500 per term for a maximum of five terms.

2. Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): The OGS is a merit-based scholarship available to domestic and international students pursuing a graduate degree at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship provides funding of up to $15,000 per year for a maximum of two or three years, depending on the program.

3. President's Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to top international students entering an undergraduate program at the University of Waterloo. The scholarship covers full tuition for up to four years of study.

4. International Student Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are available to high-achieving international students applying for undergraduate programs. The value of the scholarships varies and is renewable for up to four years, based on academic performance.

5. Faculty-specific Scholarships: Various faculties at the University of Waterloo offer scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities within the respective faculty.

6. Donor-funded Scholarships: The university receives generous contributions from donors, which are used to establish scholarships for international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria and application processes.

It is important to note that the availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines for scholarships may vary. To apply for scholarships, international students are typically required to submit an application for admission to the university. Some scholarships may have additional application requirements, such as essays or reference letters. It is important to care.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies program at the University of Waterloo are equipped with a solid understanding of legal principles, critical thinking skills, and practical experience gained through optional co-op work terms. This prepares them for a diverse range of career opportunities in various sectors where legal expertise and analytical abilities are valued. The Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies program at the University of Waterloo prepares graduates for diverse career paths in law, government, business, advocacy, and non-profit sectors. With their strong foundation in legal principles, critical thinking skills, and practical experience gained through co-op work terms, graduates emerge as skilled professionals ready to make a positive impact in their chosen fields and contribute to the advancement of justice, equity, and the rule of law.

1. Law School: Many graduates choose to pursue further education by attending law school to become lawyers. With their foundational knowledge of legal principles and critical thinking skills, graduates are well-prepared for the rigors of law school and subsequent careers as lawyers in various practice areas such as corporate law, criminal law, family law, or public interest law.

2. Legal Assistant or Paralegal: Graduates may work as legal assistants or paralegals in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. They assist lawyers with legal research, drafting legal documents, managing case files, and providing administrative support in areas such as litigation, corporate law, real estate, or family law.

3. Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts or researchers for government agencies, think tanks, advocacy groups, or research institutes. They analyze legal issues, evaluate policy options, and provide recommendations to policymakers on a wide range of social, economic, and legal issues affecting society.

4. Compliance Officer: Graduates may work as compliance officers or regulatory specialists in industries such as finance, healthcare, telecommunications, or environmental protection. They ensure that organizations comply with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards by conducting audits, developing compliance programs, and providing training to employees.

5. Legal Researcher or Writer: Graduates with strong research and writing skills may work as legal researchers, writers, or editors for law firms, legal publishers, or research organizations. They conduct legal research, analyze case law and statutes, and prepare legal memoranda, articles, or reports on legal issues for internal or external audiences.

6. Corporate Governance Specialist: Graduates may work in corporate governance roles for corporations, non-profit organizations, or government agencies. They ensure compliance with corporate laws and regulations, advise on governance practices, and assist with board meetings, shareholder communications, and regulatory filings.

7. Human Resources Specialist: Graduates with knowledge of employment law and labor relations may work in human resources departments as HR specialists or consultants. They develop policies and procedures, advise on employment law matters, and handle employee relations issues such as disputes, grievances, or disciplinary actions.

8. Public Relations or Communications Specialist: Graduates with strong communication skills may work in public relations, communications, or media relations roles for law firms, government agencies, or corporate entities. They craft messaging, respond to media inquiries, and manage communications strategies to promote a positive public image and address legal issues.

9. Non-Profit or Advocacy Work: Graduates may work for non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, or social justice organizations, advocating for legal reforms, human rights, or social justice issues. They may work in areas such as civil liberties, environmental protection, immigration rights, or access to justice initiatives.