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#The Prelaw Curriculum

The Prelaw Curriculum

Many students ask for suggestions in planning a prelaw educational program. At New York University, there is no formal prelaw major or curriculum, and a prelaw student, quite simply, is one who defines himself or herself as such. In other words, being "prelaw" is a state of mind — knowing that eventually you may apply to law school.

No Standard Prelaw Curriculum: As stated in the NYU College of Arts and Science Bulletin, the College endorses the viewpoint of the Association of American Law Schools (AALS) that a single, "best" prelaw curriculum cannot be identified. You should concentrate in those academic areas which most hold your interest. The choice of a major should not depend upon what you think a law school might want, but upon the field most likely to motivate you, whether art history or English literature.

Law schools do not prefer any specific major. Beyond a disciplined study of western civilization, most schools recommend that students perfect their skills in English composition. Words are the tools of a lawyer, and the student who can express himself or herself with confidence and clarity will be at a distinct advantage. Beginning with our first-year Expository Writing Program, you should be concentrating on developing writing skills to the utmost. The importance of verbal skills cannot be overstated, and the development of the ability to express oneself forcefully and accurately, both orally and in writing, is at the heart of the legal profession.

Given the above, it is possible to sketch those areas which are most suitable for eventual prelaw studies:

Reading, Writing, and Research:

Since verbal expression is at the heart of the profession, courses which require extensive reading, writing, and research should be taken. Advanced level seminars and the honors programs within several of the College's departments offer a unique opportunity to do extensive written work in the junior and senior years.

Analytical Skills Precise Methodology:

The precision of methodology and thought required in mathematics, computer science, logic, and the natural sciences will aid in the development of analytic skills.