Expert: Bruce - 3/16/2007

Question
Hello Bruce,
My name is Ernest Jauregui. I am currently an under-grad student at the California State University, Los Angeles campus who plans to attend law school. However, I am very uncertain about what major to chose. A lot of people have recommended that English or Philosophy would really be helpful in terms of developing my critical thinking skills, and I don't think they're mistaken. In fact, I've taken couple of Philosophy and English courses, but they don't seem to be of my interest. I am more inclined into History or Political Science. Bruce, part of my concern is having the necessary skills for the LSAT; do you believe that a degree in History, for instance, will be a waist of time in considering law school; especially since the LSAT is based on pure critical and logical reasoning?

Answer
Hi Ernesto,

Thanks for your question.

My understanding is that in terms of admission, law schools do not prefer students with a particular college major. Indeed, I have known of students with bachelors degrees in everything from music to history to biology who have been successful in law school.

What will count is that you show a good undergrad GPA - so choose a major based on your interest and aptitude, and your score on the LSAT. Picking up a minor that comjplements or contrasts your major wouldn't hurt either.

I think you also want to be sure that the classes you take prepare you for the heavy law school writing load, and give you a broad background in history, government, economics and philosophy. It may be that just a course or two in these areas would provide that (that is, make you conversant). I have also heard from a good source that it is advisable to pick up a class or two in accounting. As much of law is business based, a basic level knowledge of accounting will be helpful in law school.

Have you tried calling the law school admission service in PA, or visiting the Web site? I'll bet that there must be some data there about various undergrad majors and how those fare on the LSAT.

If you have a certain law school or two in mind, you may even call and chat with an admissionb officer there for input (and to get on their radar).

I hope this helps. Best wishes.
bruce