Legal Studies
Study law, politics, and society within a liberal arts framework.
The legal studies program at UMass Amherst is the oldest undergraduate law and society major in the country and the only one offered at a public university in New England. The major offers you an interdisciplinary approach to the study of law and society within a liberal arts framework. You'll explore the many ways in which law relates to other disciplines pertinent to an understanding of society.
Most legal studies classes are limited to 25 students. Our students regularly interact with faculty on honors theses, internships, and undergraduate research projects. Through these experiences, you will refine your critical thinking, conflict resolution, and communication skills.
You can also take advantage of a robust internship program, including a popular judicial internship hosted by Judge Judd Carhart, and the major sustains a strong tradition in undergraduate Capstone honors research and writing. While many of our students pursue law school, others go into careers in mediation, court administration, government, law enforcement, public interest, business, and more.