Preparation for Law School

Students interested in preparing for and gaining admission to law school should contact the UTSA Institute for Law and Public Affairs or one of UTSA’s pre-law faculty advisors. Most law schools do not recommend that pre-law students major in or concentrate on any particular area or discipline, although they do recommend that ­students acquire and develop certain skills as undergraduates, including strong analytical, logic, critical reading, and writing skills. Most law schools say that a broad, diverse, liberal undergraduate education is preferable to one that is narrowly specialized or vocational. Many law schools look for a showing of thorough, dedicated learning in a broad academic field. Student programs of study that approach subjects on a theoretical level, rather than concentrating exclusively on practical aspects, are often considered good preparatory training for law school. It is also advisable, however, for students to take some law-oriented courses at the undergraduate level to assess for themselves, and to demonstrate to law schools, their aptitude for legal studies and potential for success in law school.

To discover what a particular law school recommends, students should review that school’s catalog or website. Students will find a wealth of information on law school admissions and preparation at the Law School Admission Council’s website and the UTSA Institute for Law and Public Affairs website. The Institute offers an intensive Summer Law School Preparation Academy. Pre-law students may also consider the Certificate in Legal Studies. Students who wish to discuss pre-law curriculum or their law school plans should contact the Institute.