Most of today’s controversial issues—whether stemming from political conflict, technological developments, economic inequality or other social changes—are expressed and mediated through law. The Legal Studies program offers you the opportunity to critically explore the social roles of law and its connections with community, government and society from different theoretical perspectives. The program demonstrates a commitment to promoting justice by cultivating active citizenship skills, critical reflection, and respect for diversity, pluralism, equality and equity.
You will be stimulated to appreciate the law in its plural—formal and informal—forms and to evaluate it from diverse perspectives. You will be challenged to question whether law equally responds to the needs of all groups in society, including Indigenous peoples, racial minorities, immigrants, the poor, women, members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and persons with disabilities. You will study law in relation to topical themes, including national security, globalization, technology and the environment. You will explore various ways of resolving social conflicts—from traditional court processes to alternative methods of dispute resolution such as mediation.
Legal Studies graduates have knowledge and skills suitable for careers requiring legal research and analysis, policy analysis, human rights advocacy, mediation and/or an understanding of privacy and information access issues. The program also offers preparation for graduate work in legal studies, law school, or paralegal and mediator certification programs.
Students also have the opportunity to complete a double major in Legal Studies and Political Science. This double major enables students to receive degrees in both Legal Studies and Political Science in four years. The two programs are especially complementary given law and politics are deeply intertwined. Students learn to navigate how legal systems affect governance, and how power impacts lawmaking and legal decision-making. You will acquire knowledge and skills that especially equip you to enter into the legal profession, including law school.
The Alternative Dispute Resolution specialization can be taken with the Legal Studies program.