St. John's University

What you'll study

The programme combines core courses in American law and legal institutions with electives that allow specialisation in areas such as criminal justice, compliance, family law, and civil procedure. Teaching emphasises practical skills—legal research and writing, statutory interpretation, advocacy basics—and contextual knowledge of how law operates in society and business.

• Core modules: Introduction to American Law, Legal Research and Writing, Constitutional Law, Civil Procedure, Criminal Law, Evidence and Legal Ethics.
• Skills and experiential learning: Moot exercises, client interviewing, simulation workshops, and externships or internships with courts, government agencies, non-profit organisations or corporate legal departments in the New York region.
• Electives and concentrations: Business and Corporate Law Fundamentals, Compliance and Regulatory Law, Family and Juvenile Law, Immigration Law, Human Rights and Public Policy.
• Capstone/Project: Many students complete a capstone research project, practicum, or internship-based portfolio demonstrating applied legal skills and sector knowledge.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have completed secondary education equivalent to a US high school diploma. Typical academic entry standards include a strong record in core subjects; St. John’s will review equivalent international qualifications on a case-by-case basis.

• Academic transcripts: Official secondary school transcripts or recognised international equivalents.
• English language proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English must provide evidence of proficiency, for example via recognised English tests or equivalent qualifications recognised by the university.
• Additional materials: Personal statement, letters of recommendation and, where applicable, evidence of prior tertiary study or relevant work experience for transfer and mature applicants.
• Notes: This is a non-professional degree; admission to St. John’s University School of Law or other professional programmes requires separate application and meeting those programmes’ entry criteria.

Career prospects

Graduates typically move into roles that draw on legal knowledge and practical skills but do not require bar admission. Common entry-level and mid-career pathways include:

• Paralegal or legal assistant positions in law firms and corporate legal departments
• Compliance analyst or regulatory support roles in finance, healthcare and corporate sectors
• Positions in courts, government agencies, public defenders’ or district attorney offices and non-profit advocacy organisations
• Policy, legislative aide, or research roles for think tanks, labour organisations and elected officials
• Further study: many graduates pursue professional programmes such as law school, graduate degrees in public administration, criminal justice or dispute resolution.

Why study at St. John's University

St. John’s offers strong connections to the legal community in New York City and the surrounding region, providing easy access to internships, externships and part-time roles with courts, law firms and public agencies. The programme benefits from proximity to St. John’s University School of Law, which supports guest lectures, joint events and mentoring opportunities.

Students gain practical experience through simulation-based teaching and placement opportunities, taught by faculty with professional and academic backgrounds in law and public policy. The campus environment and alumni network support career development and transitions into legal support roles, public service and graduate study.