B.S. in Law & Society

Jefferson University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Law & Society program offers students a comprehensive understanding of the legal system and its intersection with society, politics, and culture. Through interdisciplinary coursework, students explore various aspects of law, justice, and governance, gaining insights into legal theory, constitutional principles, and social justice issues. The program prepares students for careers in law-related fields, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the B.S. in Law & Society program covers a wide range of topics related to law, society, and governance. Core coursework includes legal studies, constitutional law, criminal justice, civil rights, ethics, and public policy analysis. Students also have the opportunity to choose elective courses in specialized areas such as environmental law, human rights law, immigration law, and family law. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills, and research methodologies essential for understanding legal concepts and applying them to real-world contexts.

Research Focus: Jefferson University's B.S. in Law & Society program emphasizes research as a fundamental component of legal education. Students engage in research projects, case studies, and policy analyses to explore complex legal issues, evaluate competing perspectives, and propose solutions to societal challenges. Faculty members lead research initiatives that address contemporary legal issues, social justice concerns, and policy debates, providing students with opportunities to contribute to scholarly discourse and advocate for meaningful change.

Industry Engagement: The B.S. in Law & Society program at Jefferson University fosters strong connections with the legal profession and related industries through internships, externships, and industry partnerships. Students have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships with law firms, government agencies, courts, and advocacy organizations. They also participate in moot court competitions, legal clinics, and professional development workshops, gaining insights into the practice of law and building valuable networks within the legal community.

Global Perspective: In an increasingly interconnected world, Jefferson University's B.S. in Law & Society program emphasizes the importance of a global perspective in understanding legal issues and navigating diverse legal systems. Students explore international law, comparative legal systems, and global human rights frameworks to understand the complexities of legal pluralism and transnational legal challenges. They may have opportunities to study abroad, participate in international legal research projects, or engage with global legal advocacy organizations, broadening their understanding of law and society on a global scale.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fees: Waiver

Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 85% or above in their previous educational qualifications.

English Language Proficiency

• IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.5 is often required.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.
• PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 53 is often required.
• DET Requirement: A DET score of 115 is required.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Jefferson University, located in Philadelphia, USA, is promoting diversity and academic excellence by offering scholarships to international students. These scholarships are designed to recognize outstanding achievements and provide financial assistance to students pursuing their higher education at the university.

Global Excellence Scholarship: This competitive scholarship is awarded to exceptional international students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership qualities, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities. The scholarship amount varies and can significantly offset tuition costs.

International Undergraduate Scholarship: Jefferson University offers merit-based scholarships for undergraduate international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements and can contribute to reducing the overall cost of tuition.

Art and Design Scholarships: International students interested in art and design programs can apply for specialized scholarships within the Kanbar College of Design, Engineering, and Commerce. These scholarships recognize talent and dedication in fields such as graphic design, fashion, industrial design, and more.

Athletic Scholarships: Jefferson University also offers athletic scholarships for international students who excel in sports and wish to continue their athletic pursuits while pursuing a degree. These scholarships are available for various sports and may cover tuition and other expenses.

Deadlines: It's important for international students to keep track of scholarship application deadlines. These deadlines can vary depending on the scholarship and the program of study.

Scholarship Renewal: Many scholarships at Jefferson University are renewable based on maintaining a certain GPA or meeting other criteria. This helps ensure that students continue to receive financial support throughout their academic journey.

Graduates of Jefferson University's Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Law & Society program have diverse career opportunities available to them in the legal field, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and advocacy groups. 

Paralegal/Legal Assistant: B.S. in Law & Society graduates can pursue careers as paralegals or legal assistants, providing support to lawyers and legal teams in law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies. They assist with legal research, document preparation, case management, and client communication, helping to ensure the efficient operation of legal practices.

Legal Analyst/Researcher: Graduates may work as legal analysts or researchers, conducting legal research, analyzing case law, and preparing legal briefs, memos, and reports for attorneys, judges, or policy makers. They specialize in specific areas of law such as criminal law, civil rights, environmental law, or intellectual property, providing valuable insights into legal issues and trends.

Court Clerk/Court Reporter: B.S. in Law & Society graduates can pursue careers as court clerks or court reporters, assisting judges, attorneys, and court personnel in the administration of justice. They maintain court records, schedule hearings, manage court dockets, and transcribe court proceedings, ensuring the smooth operation of judicial proceedings.

Legal Advocate/Community Organizer: Graduates may work as legal advocates or community organizers, advocating for social justice, civil rights, and legal reform in non-profit organizations, advocacy groups, or community-based organizations. They mobilize communities, raise awareness about legal issues, and advocate for policy changes to address systemic inequalities and promote social change.

Policy Analyst/Researcher: B.S. in Law & Society graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts or researchers, analyzing legislation, regulations, and public policies to assess their impact on society, identify areas for reform, and propose policy solutions. They work for government agencies, think tanks, research institutes, or advocacy organizations, influencing policy decisions and shaping public discourse on legal and social issues.

Government Affairs Specialist: Graduates may work as government affairs specialists, representing corporations, non-profit organizations, or trade associations in their interactions with government agencies, legislative bodies, and regulatory authorities. They monitor legislative developments, advocate for policy changes, and build relationships with elected officials and government stakeholders to advance the interests of their clients.

Human Rights Advocate/Activist: B.S. in Law & Society graduates can pursue careers as human rights advocates or activists, working to promote human rights, social justice, and equality on local, national, or international levels. They collaborate with human rights organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and grassroots movements to raise awareness about human rights violations, support victims of injustice, and advocate for legal and policy reforms to protect human rights.

Mediator/Arbitrator: Graduates may work as mediators or arbitrators, facilitating the resolution of disputes between parties through negotiation, mediation, or arbitration processes. They help parties reach mutually acceptable agreements, resolve conflicts outside of the court system, and promote alternative dispute resolution methods as cost-effective and efficient alternatives to litigation.

Legislative Aide/Policy Advisor: B.S. in Law & Society graduates can work as legislative aides or policy advisors for elected officials, assisting legislators in drafting legislation, conducting policy research, and analyzing the potential impact of proposed laws on constituents. They provide expert guidance on legal and policy matters, engage with stakeholders, and support the legislative process at the local, state, or federal level.

Non-Profit Manager/Director: Graduates may pursue careers as non-profit managers or directors, leading non-profit organizations that focus on legal advocacy, civil rights, social justice, or community development. They oversee organizational operations, fundraising efforts, program development, and strategic planning, ensuring the effective implementation of the organization's mission and goals.