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If interested in a future career in law, should you major in something that is highly requested in the local area, or something niche?
I am applying to colleges at the moment, and am wondering what should dictate my decision of what to major and minor in. I want to do everything possible to have a successful future career as a lawyer, so I want my classes to be more geared toward giving me an edge- not a generic major that most law students have.
I live in the heart of Austin, so it would also help if I could get any info about what specialty is sought after here. Thanks!
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7 answers
Updated
Kevin P’s Answer
Hey there Danielle, so I would say this is largely depended on what in law you’d like to do. Most common would be lawyer followed by judge. Both require a juris doctorate, or your JD. Which comes after a bachelors.
Coincidentally, one of the fellas I know that I look up to is a really successful partner at a law firm. His bachelors was in mechanical engineering. He never intended to be an engineer, maybe it was a back up plan. That’s one question I never asked him. However, he graduated with his engineering degree and then immediately went for his law degree. This was always the plan.
It’s said that some of the fundamentals of a successful engineer can transfer to being a successful lawyer. Attention to detail, investigative nature, desire to complete projects. And it’s one heck of a fall back plan.
Now you do not need to study pre law or some speciality of law unless you want to. It would help in the sense that you have deeper understanding of all of it. Either way you go, you have done success in your future.
Coincidentally, one of the fellas I know that I look up to is a really successful partner at a law firm. His bachelors was in mechanical engineering. He never intended to be an engineer, maybe it was a back up plan. That’s one question I never asked him. However, he graduated with his engineering degree and then immediately went for his law degree. This was always the plan.
It’s said that some of the fundamentals of a successful engineer can transfer to being a successful lawyer. Attention to detail, investigative nature, desire to complete projects. And it’s one heck of a fall back plan.
Now you do not need to study pre law or some speciality of law unless you want to. It would help in the sense that you have deeper understanding of all of it. Either way you go, you have done success in your future.
Thank you! This is definitely a good way of thinking about a major that has seemingly nothing to do with law on the surface.
Danielle
Updated
Martha’s Answer
Hi, Danielle - this is an excellent question and Shrungali has given you terrific advice. A few other thoughts:
- What you do outside of class as an undergraduate could help your law school application. For example, doing community service at a legal aid society or immigrant assistance program could expand your knowledge of the law as well as provide practical experience. Similarly, serving an internship with a law firm (more likely for law school students) or a corporate law office or non-profit organization related to the law could be valuable.
- She made the point that having in-depth knowledge of a related area - such as environmental science, technology, or finance - to combine with a law degree could make you a more attractive candidate at the end of law school. This gives you a wide choice for undergraduate major so long as you take courses that build your analytical and writing skills.
- That said, I would recommend having at least a couple of law-related courses in your undergraduate transcript, such as Constitutional Law or a history course on the evolution of the law. This will provide background, as well as give you an idea of how you would feel about going to law school. It would also demonstrate your commitment to the law.
- While it is great to think about local needs in Austin, bear in mind that you might want to live somewhere else in after your 4 years as an undergrad and 3 years as a law student. So don't base too much of your decision based on needs there. Also, the economy of the city could change significantly in 7 years so, again, don't base too much on the major industries there now.
I have put a few links below with further information on this topic. Good luck!
Indeed.com - https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/law-school-requirements
US News - https://www.usnews.com/education/blogs/law-admissions-lowdown/articles/college-classes-that-best-prepare-you-for-law-school
- What you do outside of class as an undergraduate could help your law school application. For example, doing community service at a legal aid society or immigrant assistance program could expand your knowledge of the law as well as provide practical experience. Similarly, serving an internship with a law firm (more likely for law school students) or a corporate law office or non-profit organization related to the law could be valuable.
- She made the point that having in-depth knowledge of a related area - such as environmental science, technology, or finance - to combine with a law degree could make you a more attractive candidate at the end of law school. This gives you a wide choice for undergraduate major so long as you take courses that build your analytical and writing skills.
- That said, I would recommend having at least a couple of law-related courses in your undergraduate transcript, such as Constitutional Law or a history course on the evolution of the law. This will provide background, as well as give you an idea of how you would feel about going to law school. It would also demonstrate your commitment to the law.
- While it is great to think about local needs in Austin, bear in mind that you might want to live somewhere else in after your 4 years as an undergrad and 3 years as a law student. So don't base too much of your decision based on needs there. Also, the economy of the city could change significantly in 7 years so, again, don't base too much on the major industries there now.
I have put a few links below with further information on this topic. Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Thank you! I appreciate you linking those articles for me, and I definitely will be saving them.
Danielle
You're welcome!
Martha Kramer
Updated
Shrungali’s Answer
Hi Danielle,
In crafting distinctive qualifications that will set you apart as a future lawyer, your choice of major and minor can be directed toward skill development helpful in the legal profession but less frequently replicated by pre-law students. Here are a few things to consider, along with some specialty areas that might match up with opportunities in Austin:
1. Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Law schools aim to admit students who possess superb critical thinking skills. Although the typical pre-law majors are Political Science and English, you may wish to choose one contributing something different to different analytical powers, such as:
Philosophy: Most famous for developing logical reasoning and arguments, and for teaching critical thinking skills very handy for law school.
Economics: Excellent to develop analytical and quantitative skills; it's especially helpful if you want to work in corporate or tax law.
History: This is a great description of the legal precedents and the historical background in describing how changes to the law come about.
2. Focus on Technology and Innovation
Austin is a city concerned with technology. In fact, technology law may be just what fits in. Consider the following:
Computer Science or Information Technology: Interested in intellectual property law, cybersecurity law, or data privacy law? Well, these aspects are increasingly becoming significant, especially with Austin's developing tech hub.
Engineering: Due to the demand and high pay for patent law, a technical background could give you an edge in the industry.
3. Environmental and Energy Law
Austin is on the innovative side when it comes to their green programs and energy-based initiatives. If you majored in:
Environmental Science or Sustainability Studies: This would make you stand out if you had a passion in either environmental law or renewable energy law.
Public Policy or Urban Planning: In such a field, focused on sustainable development or energy policy, it would be right in line with legal challenges associated with environmental regulations and urban development in Austin.
4. Business and Finance
Austin isn't just a tech city; it has grown to be one of the strong centers for startups and company affairs. In addition, knowledge of business will be handy if you are inclined toward corporate law, tax law, or mergers and acquisitions.
Business Administration or Finance: These would be good majors to learn about the structure and style of business and corporations in general, which would be helpful in corporate or business law.
Accounting: Definitely a great field to master if you want to specialize in tax law, as this will provide a good foundation in accounting practices.
5. Sociology, Anthropology, or Psychology
These majors avail valuable insight into human behavior, society, and legal systems, which are beneficial in providing the social context of laws. This would be useful specifically if one is interested in areas like:
Criminal Law
Family Law
Human Rights Law
6. Minors or Double Majors
Aside from your major, consider a minor that complements your interests:
Communications or Media Studies: If you are interested in media or entertainment law, this can be great contextual coursework.
Foreign Languages: Becoming fluent in a language, such as Spanish, could be highly beneficial if you want to practice immigration law or international law-especially in Texas, given its huge Hispanic population.
Legal Studies: Some colleges offer legal studies minors, which can provide early exposure to legal theory and practice without having to major in pre-law.
7. Hot Specialties in Austin
As Austin hosts a mix of tech companies, government agencies, and startups, the popular legal specialties in demand are:
Tech and Data Privacy Law
Intellectual Property Law-particularly in patents
Energy and Environmental Law
Corporate and Startup Law
Immigration Law: bordering the Mexican border with demographic influences
Key Considerations
First, select a major that genuinely interests you but simultaneously contributes to developing good skills: for instance, critical thinking, writing, research, or technical expertise. Keep the legal landscape of Austin in mind with your focus, but simultaneously make sure your path allows for change if your interests do.
This focused approach will give you an edge in applications to law school and later in your career as a lawyer. In tailoring your major and minor, you might highlight specialties in tech law, environmental law, or corporate law that give you an edge over other applicants.
Good Luck
In crafting distinctive qualifications that will set you apart as a future lawyer, your choice of major and minor can be directed toward skill development helpful in the legal profession but less frequently replicated by pre-law students. Here are a few things to consider, along with some specialty areas that might match up with opportunities in Austin:
1. Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Law schools aim to admit students who possess superb critical thinking skills. Although the typical pre-law majors are Political Science and English, you may wish to choose one contributing something different to different analytical powers, such as:
Philosophy: Most famous for developing logical reasoning and arguments, and for teaching critical thinking skills very handy for law school.
Economics: Excellent to develop analytical and quantitative skills; it's especially helpful if you want to work in corporate or tax law.
History: This is a great description of the legal precedents and the historical background in describing how changes to the law come about.
2. Focus on Technology and Innovation
Austin is a city concerned with technology. In fact, technology law may be just what fits in. Consider the following:
Computer Science or Information Technology: Interested in intellectual property law, cybersecurity law, or data privacy law? Well, these aspects are increasingly becoming significant, especially with Austin's developing tech hub.
Engineering: Due to the demand and high pay for patent law, a technical background could give you an edge in the industry.
3. Environmental and Energy Law
Austin is on the innovative side when it comes to their green programs and energy-based initiatives. If you majored in:
Environmental Science or Sustainability Studies: This would make you stand out if you had a passion in either environmental law or renewable energy law.
Public Policy or Urban Planning: In such a field, focused on sustainable development or energy policy, it would be right in line with legal challenges associated with environmental regulations and urban development in Austin.
4. Business and Finance
Austin isn't just a tech city; it has grown to be one of the strong centers for startups and company affairs. In addition, knowledge of business will be handy if you are inclined toward corporate law, tax law, or mergers and acquisitions.
Business Administration or Finance: These would be good majors to learn about the structure and style of business and corporations in general, which would be helpful in corporate or business law.
Accounting: Definitely a great field to master if you want to specialize in tax law, as this will provide a good foundation in accounting practices.
5. Sociology, Anthropology, or Psychology
These majors avail valuable insight into human behavior, society, and legal systems, which are beneficial in providing the social context of laws. This would be useful specifically if one is interested in areas like:
Criminal Law
Family Law
Human Rights Law
6. Minors or Double Majors
Aside from your major, consider a minor that complements your interests:
Communications or Media Studies: If you are interested in media or entertainment law, this can be great contextual coursework.
Foreign Languages: Becoming fluent in a language, such as Spanish, could be highly beneficial if you want to practice immigration law or international law-especially in Texas, given its huge Hispanic population.
Legal Studies: Some colleges offer legal studies minors, which can provide early exposure to legal theory and practice without having to major in pre-law.
7. Hot Specialties in Austin
As Austin hosts a mix of tech companies, government agencies, and startups, the popular legal specialties in demand are:
Tech and Data Privacy Law
Intellectual Property Law-particularly in patents
Energy and Environmental Law
Corporate and Startup Law
Immigration Law: bordering the Mexican border with demographic influences
Key Considerations
First, select a major that genuinely interests you but simultaneously contributes to developing good skills: for instance, critical thinking, writing, research, or technical expertise. Keep the legal landscape of Austin in mind with your focus, but simultaneously make sure your path allows for change if your interests do.
This focused approach will give you an edge in applications to law school and later in your career as a lawyer. In tailoring your major and minor, you might highlight specialties in tech law, environmental law, or corporate law that give you an edge over other applicants.
Good Luck
I really appreciate you leaving such an in-depth reply, Shrungali! Thank you so much for this information, I will definitely be using this.
Danielle
Updated
D.J.’s Answer
As you ponder over a major to pursue for a future law career, it's crucial to harmonize your personal interests with practical aspects. Here are some uplifting suggestions tailored to your circumstances:
1. Embrace a major you love: Law schools don't mandate specific majors. They appreciate skills like critical thinking, writing, and analysis, which you can hone across a range of subjects.
2. Explore related fields: In a tech hotspot like Austin, majors such as computer science, intellectual property, or business could offer you a competitive edge in technology law or corporate law.
3. Keep an eye on local industry dynamics: Austin boasts a burgeoning startup landscape, making entrepreneurship or business-related majors potentially valuable.
4. Ponder over specialized areas: Environmental law is gaining prominence, particularly in eco-friendly cities like Austin. A major in environmental science or policy could prove advantageous.
5. Value traditional pre-law majors: Subjects like political science, philosophy, or economics continue to offer robust foundations for law school.
6. Cultivate robust writing skills: Majors in English or journalism often flourish in law school due to their writing prowess.
Bear in mind, your undergraduate performance outweighs your specific major. A high GPA in a field you're enthusiastic about will be more striking than average grades in a "preferred" major.
For further details on legal careers and educational prerequisites, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics website:
1. Visit https://www.bls.gov/ooh/ (Occupational Outlook Handbook)
2. Search for "Lawyers"
This resource offers valuable insights into the legal profession, including educational requirements, median pay, and job prospects.
Moreover, consider reaching out to local law firms or the Austin Bar Association for more tailored information about sought-after legal specialties in your area.
Ultimately, opt for a major that captivates you and enables you to shine academically while honing crucial thinking and communication skills. These skills, coupled with a high LSAT score and relevant experiences, will make you a formidable law school applicant.
1. Embrace a major you love: Law schools don't mandate specific majors. They appreciate skills like critical thinking, writing, and analysis, which you can hone across a range of subjects.
2. Explore related fields: In a tech hotspot like Austin, majors such as computer science, intellectual property, or business could offer you a competitive edge in technology law or corporate law.
3. Keep an eye on local industry dynamics: Austin boasts a burgeoning startup landscape, making entrepreneurship or business-related majors potentially valuable.
4. Ponder over specialized areas: Environmental law is gaining prominence, particularly in eco-friendly cities like Austin. A major in environmental science or policy could prove advantageous.
5. Value traditional pre-law majors: Subjects like political science, philosophy, or economics continue to offer robust foundations for law school.
6. Cultivate robust writing skills: Majors in English or journalism often flourish in law school due to their writing prowess.
Bear in mind, your undergraduate performance outweighs your specific major. A high GPA in a field you're enthusiastic about will be more striking than average grades in a "preferred" major.
For further details on legal careers and educational prerequisites, check out the Bureau of Labor Statistics website:
1. Visit https://www.bls.gov/ooh/ (Occupational Outlook Handbook)
2. Search for "Lawyers"
This resource offers valuable insights into the legal profession, including educational requirements, median pay, and job prospects.
Moreover, consider reaching out to local law firms or the Austin Bar Association for more tailored information about sought-after legal specialties in your area.
Ultimately, opt for a major that captivates you and enables you to shine academically while honing crucial thinking and communication skills. These skills, coupled with a high LSAT score and relevant experiences, will make you a formidable law school applicant.
Thank you! I will definitely be utilizing the BLS link.
Danielle
Updated
Lirio’s Answer
When considering a major for a future career in law, it's wise to think about both your interests and the job market. Majoring in a subject that is in demand in your area can give you an edge when applying for internships or jobs after graduation. However, choosing a niche area that excites you can also set you apart from other law school applicants, as unique backgrounds can be appealing to law schools.
In Austin, areas like technology law, environmental law, and intellectual property are becoming increasingly important due to the city's growing tech scene and focus on sustainability. A major in a related field, such as business, environmental science, or even political science, could be beneficial. Additionally, consider a minor in a specialty that complements your major and your interests, like digital media or public policy.
Ultimately, choose a path that combines your passion with market demand. This way, you'll not only enjoy your studies but also enhance your career prospects in law.
In Austin, areas like technology law, environmental law, and intellectual property are becoming increasingly important due to the city's growing tech scene and focus on sustainability. A major in a related field, such as business, environmental science, or even political science, could be beneficial. Additionally, consider a minor in a specialty that complements your major and your interests, like digital media or public policy.
Ultimately, choose a path that combines your passion with market demand. This way, you'll not only enjoy your studies but also enhance your career prospects in law.
Updated
Kim’s Answer
Danielle,
Great to hear about your enthusiasm for law!
Here's a slightly unconventional piece of advice. Instead of focusing solely on a "Pre-Law" track, consider a major that aligns with your Plan B career. It's a fact that not all "Pre-Law" students end up in law school, and not all law school graduates become lawyers. It's easy to think we'll be the exception when we're young, but life often has other plans.
Say, for instance, you're intrigued by the idea of being a scientific researcher. Go ahead and pursue that! Almost any degree can be beneficial for a lawyer. Let your undergraduate degree equip you with valuable skills and knowledge. Imagine, for instance, dealing with a medical malpractice case without any background in science or healthcare!
The skills mentioned in previous responses are crucial. You can acquire them through a diverse range of classes. Also, strive to enhance your leadership skills. Don't just participate in groups - lead them, or even start your own!
Tech skills, like creating presentations, and time management skills are also important. Avoid procrastination and stay on top of your responsibilities, both academically and personally.
In college, you'll often have a choice in which classes fulfill certain requirements. If you have the option to take Constitutional Law instead of US Politics, go for it. If you can swap an English class for a course on Latin & Greek Vocabulary, do that. Be sure to thoroughly review the requirements and allowed substitutions. By making smart substitutions, you can save your elective hours for other classes. And don't forget to consider a course in "Logic," typically found in the Philosophy Department.
While this advice may not directly answer your question, I hope it helps guide your decision-making process. Remember, you have 60-90 hours before you need to finalize your major, so don't stress too much!
Kim
Just a note - Central Texas is evolving rapidly. It's hard to predict what it'll look like in 7 years.
Great to hear about your enthusiasm for law!
Here's a slightly unconventional piece of advice. Instead of focusing solely on a "Pre-Law" track, consider a major that aligns with your Plan B career. It's a fact that not all "Pre-Law" students end up in law school, and not all law school graduates become lawyers. It's easy to think we'll be the exception when we're young, but life often has other plans.
Say, for instance, you're intrigued by the idea of being a scientific researcher. Go ahead and pursue that! Almost any degree can be beneficial for a lawyer. Let your undergraduate degree equip you with valuable skills and knowledge. Imagine, for instance, dealing with a medical malpractice case without any background in science or healthcare!
The skills mentioned in previous responses are crucial. You can acquire them through a diverse range of classes. Also, strive to enhance your leadership skills. Don't just participate in groups - lead them, or even start your own!
Tech skills, like creating presentations, and time management skills are also important. Avoid procrastination and stay on top of your responsibilities, both academically and personally.
In college, you'll often have a choice in which classes fulfill certain requirements. If you have the option to take Constitutional Law instead of US Politics, go for it. If you can swap an English class for a course on Latin & Greek Vocabulary, do that. Be sure to thoroughly review the requirements and allowed substitutions. By making smart substitutions, you can save your elective hours for other classes. And don't forget to consider a course in "Logic," typically found in the Philosophy Department.
While this advice may not directly answer your question, I hope it helps guide your decision-making process. Remember, you have 60-90 hours before you need to finalize your major, so don't stress too much!
Kim
Just a note - Central Texas is evolving rapidly. It's hard to predict what it'll look like in 7 years.
Thank you for the insight!
Danielle
Updated
JOHN’s Answer
My experience suggests you learn to read in many different disciplines so you be a life-long learner and be able to talk and write in various fields. Especially read novels about lawyers.