What do I need to major in to become a lawyer?

Many accredited colleges and universities offer pre-law as an undergraduate degree program. But for students planning to attend law school, there are other options for undergraduate studies. Law schools admit students from a variety of majors, including music, art and science. Each major has classes that can help prepare you for law school.

Critical Reading and Writing

Law school requires you to read and write at a high level to learn legal principles. You should be prepared to critically examine texts and be able to discern the intent and meaning of complex writings. Writing is fundamentally important in the practice of law and a skill you should develop as an undergraduate.

Analytic and Problem-Solving Skills

To hone your analytic and problem-solving skills, you should choose courses and degree programs as an undergraduate that provide practice and training in creating and presenting arguments. It is also recommended that you engage in debate on issues of moral ambiguity. Challenging your beliefs and previously held notions will better help you to present arguments for and against issues.

Research

Much of your time in law school and as a junior associate practicing law will be spent doing research. To take advantage of your options as an undergraduate student, you should seek courses and programs that will not only give you practice doing research, but also help you develop methods of research that work best.

Communication Ability

Communication is the most important area of expertise needed by a lawyer. Law school teaches you how to think like a lawyer. The ability to communicate your arguments, absorb challenges to your position and adapt to different audiences will help you become a successful lawyer.

Organization

After your first year of law school, you will be able to tailor your curriculum to meet the requirements of your chosen field of practice. As an attorney, you will need to manage your time and resources to best serve your client. Undergraduate courses should demand organizational skills, regardless of your major.

Source:

The State Bar of California

American Bar Association: Preparing for Law School