Aspiring to become a lawyer is a noble and ambitious goal. Serving society through the protection of people’s rights is an admirable profession. However, in the Philippines, the path to becoming a legal expert is not as well-defined. Since there is no specific “pre-law” program, law majors for undergraduates are varying fields of study that can pave the way for a successful legal career.
In this blog, we explore the pre-law majors you can take as your undergraduate studies and understand why studying political science, economics, communication, and other courses are ideal programs for law. We emphasize the importance of picking the right undergraduate degree and how it can affect your studies.
Pre-Law Undergraduate Programs
Generally speaking, the only pre-requisite to entering law schools in the Philippines is a graduate degree in any four-year program. But, several popular undergraduate programs can provide you with a strong foundation in law and the skills necessary to succeed in law school.
Some of the most popular pre-law majors in the country are:
1. Political Science
A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science is often the go-to major for those with legal aspirations. It is a natural choice as it covers topics related to government, law, and political systems. This major equips you with a deep understanding of the Philippine legal and political landscape, which is highly beneficial for law school and future legal practice.
2. Economics
An understanding of economics is particularly valuable if you’re interested in areas of law related to business, trade, finance, or taxation. As a student taking the Bachelor of Arts in Economics, you are provided a solid foundation for comprehending the economic aspects of legal cases.
3. History
History provides you with historical context and insight into the development of legal systems and institutions. Understanding the evolution of legal principles and their historical underpinnings can be advantageous in grasping how the current legal systems work, and creating new proposals for updated legal regulations fit for modern times.
4. Philosophy
Philosophy is a discipline that emphasizes critical thinking, logic, and ethics. These are indispensable skills for legal analysis and argumentation, perfect for any form of legal practice you wish to specialize in. Philosophical reasoning can greatly enhance your ability to dissect complex legal issues, making it a valuable pre-law major.
5. English
A degree in BA English Language focuses on language proficiency and literary analysis. It sharpens your written and verbal communication skills, crucial for success in the legal profession.
As a lawyer, breaking down the context of complex legal documents and finding workarounds and ambiguities in the text is a required skill. The ability to write clear and concise legal briefs and communicate effectively in court or with clients is fundamental.
6. Communication
While closely related to English, a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication focuses more on public relations and interpersonal communication. This major refines a different set of communication skills that can be vital in various legal contexts such as negotiations, court argumentations and persuasion, client interviews, and advocacy.
7. Psychology
Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is an increasingly popular choice for pre-law students. While not as traditional as some other pre-law majors, it offers unique benefits that can aid in your future legal career. A strong grasp of human behavior, cognitive processes, and emotional dynamics equips you with the skills to understand, interact with, and advocate for your clients more effectively.
Choosing the right undergraduate degree for law depends on what suits your interests and career goals. It’s the combination of your passion, skills, and the relevant knowledge you bring to the table that can eventually define your success in the legal profession. As you pursue this line of work, remember that the importance of your undergraduate degree isn’t solely in the title but in the dedication to your career.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Undergraduate Degree for Law
While there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to selecting an undergraduate major for your legal career, the value of this choice cannot be overstated. That said, here’s why picking the right undergraduate degree for law matters:
- Preparation for Legal Studies: Certain undergraduate majors like political science, philosophy, or history provide a strong foundation for analytical and critical thinking skills needed to practice law. They prepare you for the rigors of legal education, offering a head start in understanding legal concepts and principles.
- Interest and Passion: Pursuing an undergraduate major aligned with your interests and passions makes your academic journey more enjoyable and meaningful. When you’re passionate about your field of study, you’re more likely to excel academically and stay motivated, setting the stage for a successful legal career.
- Diverse Perspectives: Different undergraduate majors offer unique perspectives and knowledge that can be invaluable in law. A diverse range of academic backgrounds can enrich your legal profession by bringing varied insights and viewpoints to legal issues and cases.
- Career Opportunities: In some cases, your undergraduate major can open up career opportunities even if you decide not to pursue a legal career. For instance, a degree in economics can lead to positions in finance or business, while a major in communication can be useful in public relations or media.
- Specialization: Some legal fields may require or benefit from specific knowledge gained through an undergraduate major. For example, environmental law might be more accessible if you have a background in environmental science or related fields.
- Networking: Your undergraduate experience provides you with opportunities to network with professors, classmates, and professionals in your chosen field. Networking is crucial in law as it can lead to internships, job opportunities, and mentorship––which are key components of a successful legal career.
- Application and Admission: Some law schools may consider your undergraduate major when evaluating applications. While many law schools accept applicants from various backgrounds, having a relevant major can sometimes be an advantage in the admissions process.
- Diversity in Legal Practice: The legal profession benefits from a diversity of backgrounds and perspectives. Choosing a variety of undergraduate majors can contribute to a diverse legal workforce, which is essential for addressing a wide range of legal issues and serving a diverse clientele.
It’s important to note that while specific undergraduate majors can be beneficial, they are not the sole determinants of your success in law school or the legal profession. Legal education provides foundational knowledge to all students regardless of their undergraduate major. What’s crucial is your work ethic and the skills you develop during your undergraduate years that can be applied to your legal career.
Studying Pre-Law Majors with OEd
As you embark on this journey of studying any of the pre-law majors, consider partnering with AMA OEd! Here at OEd, we are the ideal platform for aspiring legal professionals, offering diverse undergraduate programs that suit your interests and career aspirations.
Whether you’re passionate about political science, communication, psychology, or any other field, OEd gives you the flexibility and resources that tailor your pre-law education to your unique goals. We can provide you with a solid academic foundation, and guide you toward a fulfilling legal career.
So, if you’re eager to explore the diverse pre-law majors and jumpstart your future in the legal profession, OEd is here to support you! Get in touch with us today to learn more about our programs.