Dear Mr. Bradshaw,
I am a sophomore in college, and I am considering law school upon graduation. Thus far, my coursework has been broad and not specifically career-focused. I now need to declare a major that will enhance my chances of admission to law school. My roommate, who plans to apply to medical school, chose biology as her major, which seemed like a straightforward decision. What major do you suggest I pursue?
Signed,
No Major Sophomore
Dear No Major Sophomore,
At one time, a well-rounded education with a “generalist” approach — often a general studies major with a few classes in economics or history — was sufficient to secure a good job on Wall Street or Main Street. However, as the demands of both the job market and graduate schools, including law schools, have evolved, choosing a major has become a more significant decision.
After consulting with several clients and law professionals, here is my advice: don’t select a major just because it’s easy. Instead, be open to challenging subjects that genuinely interest you. While law schools generally do not require a specific undergraduate major, the American Bar Association (ABA) notes that they look favorably upon candidates with strong critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills — qualities that can be cultivated in rigorous fields.
If you are seriously considering law school, some clients suggest taking on a double major. For example, if you enjoy history, you might consider pairing it with a major like economics. Economics emphasizes quantitative skills, while history strengthens writing and analytical abilities. Both sets of skills are valuable not only in the job market but also in law school. In fact, studies have shown that students who engage with challenging courses that involve critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and substantial writing tend to perform better on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT). By pursuing a double major or a major with a strong secondary concentration, you will gain an edge in developing the competencies needed for law school. That said, be cautious when combining majors. Some fields, like engineering, have so many prerequisites that it can be difficult to manage a second major or even a minor.
Another area to consider is foreign language proficiency. In today’s increasingly diverse and globalized society, knowing a second language is an asset. Many employers now look several years ahead and anticipate the need for culturally and linguistically diverse employees prepared for the global marketplace. Law is no exception; lawyers with language skills often find unique opportunities, particularly in international law, immigration, and human rights work.
Also, consider the class size and structure of the major. Do you prefer large lecture halls or small seminars? Each type of class setting has its advantages. Smaller classes provide more interaction with professors and other students, while larger lectures, though more impersonal, often break into smaller discussion sections of 10 to 15 students. Taking the time to build a connection with your teaching assistant, who is often a graduate student, can offer you valuable insight into graduate school and career possibilities that professors might not provide.
As you decide on a major, remember not to let your college dissuade you from pursuing a double major or designing an individualized major. College counselors may tell you that a double major requires additional lower-division prerequisites, but if you speak directly to the department deans, you may find that one set of prerequisites can satisfy the requirements for both majors.
Lastly, it’s important to understand that there is no single “best” major for aspiring law students. Top law schools, including Harvard Law School, state that they do not favor specific majors. Rather, they look for students who demonstrate intellectual curiosity, rigor, and academic excellence in any chosen field. This allows you the freedom to pursue a major in areas as varied as English, mathematics, history, or even engineering. One caveat, however, is that many top law schools discourage undergraduates from taking vocational or professional majors like business or accounting. Harvard Law School has noted that their acceptance rates tend to be lower for students who focus heavily on vocational courses, as they may not align as closely with the skills prioritized in legal education.
In conclusion, don’t feel pressured to find the “perfect” major for law school. Law schools evaluate applicants based on the strength of their academic record, LSAT scores, and personal statements, rather than their specific major. Choose a field that interests you and where you can excel. With a strong academic performance in challenging courses, you will be well-prepared for both the LSAT and the demands of law school.
Gerald Bradshaw is an international college admissions consultant with Bradshaw College Consulting in Crown Point.
