Planning for Law School? These Online LSU Degrees Will Set You Up for Success

If you're considering law school, choosing the right undergraduate degree is one of the most important decisions you'll make. Your undergraduate education lays the foundation for critical thinking, research, and argumentation—essential skills for success in legal studies and the courtroom. 

While many law schools accept students from various academic backgrounds, some majors offer more useful preparation for legal careers. The online Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from LSU and the online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from LSUA are two powerful options for future law school students. These programs provide a comprehensive academic base, critical legal skills, and a flexible online learning format, making them wonderful choices for working professionals, career changers, or traditional students preparing for law school. 

Criminal Justice: An Introduction to the Justice System 

The online LSUA Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is a great degree for aspiring legal professionals, as it provides foundational knowledge of the legal system, criminal behavior, and law enforcement. 

Why Is This Degree a Strong Choice for Law School Prep?  

This program offers practical insights into the field through a curriculum that covers the key aspects of the justice system. You’ll learn all the skills needed to succeed in legal studies and beyond, including: 

• Understanding the Legal System – You’ll gain an understanding of the judicial process, constitutional law, and the corrections system. 

• Building Research & Analytical Skills – The curriculum emphasizes research methods and analytical thinking.   

• Gaining Leadership & Ethical Skills – The program focuses on ethical leadership and decision-making within the criminal justice field, which are essential qualities for future attorneys and policymakers. 

Graduates with this degree are well-prepared for a variety of careers in fields such as law enforcement, probation and parole, juvenile justice administration, court administration, and federal agencies like the FBI and Secret Service.  

The program also offers a concentration in Criminal Psychology, which is another common major for pre-law students. This concentration provides a study of the American correctional process with an emphasis on the benefits of applying psychological insight to the field, modern rehabilitative processes, and community-based correctional efforts.  

Political Science: A Classic Pre-Law Pathway 

Political science has long been considered a top choice for pre-law students, and for good reason. Like many programs, the LSU Bachelor of Arts in Political Science offers a well-rounded education in government, public policy, and legal systems—all essential topics in law school. 

What Makes Political Science a Strong Pre-Law Major?  

• You'll learn to understand the law – Courses in constitutional law, civil liberties, and international relations provide a legal foundation. 

• You'll build argumentation & debate skills – Law school requires persuasion and critical thinking skills, which poli-sci courses help develop. 

• You'll gain experience in research & policy analysis – Law is heavily research-based, and political science students learn to analyze legislation, craft policy proposals, and interpret judicial decisions. 

This degree is ideal for students interested in: 

• Corporate law, where you might be advising businesses on regulations and governance. 

• Criminal law, defending or prosecuting cases in the criminal justice system. 

• Government and public administration work in policy, advocacy, or legislative affairs. 

With its emphasis on critical reasoning and legal systems, the political science degree is a perfect stepping-stone to law school and has produced many successful attorneys, policymakers, and judges. 

This program also offers a concentration in Law and Legal Systems, which offers a comprehensive perspective on societal and political factors that intersect with the law. 

Why Choose LSU Online for Your Pre-Law Education? 

No matter which path you choose, LSU Online provides access to flexible, high-quality programs designed for students balancing work, family, or other commitments. Here's what sets LSU Online apart: 

• 100% Online & Flexible: Study on your schedule, from anywhere. 

• Taught by Experts: Learn from experienced faculty with backgrounds in law, policy, and government. 

• Affordable & Accessible: Competitive tuition and financial aid options available. 

• Career-Focused Curriculum: Gain skills that translate directly to law school and legal careers. 

If you're serious about preparing for law school and a career in the legal field, the online LSU BA in Political Science or the online LSUA BS in Criminal Justice offer strong academic preparation, real-world relevance, and flexible learning options. 

Take the next step toward your future in law. Explore the LSU BA in Political Science or the LSUA BS in Criminal Justice today!