Ramapo College of New Jersey

What you'll study

The Non-Professional Legal Studies major combines foundational courses in law with applied skills training and elective options that let you tailor your degree to interests such as criminal justice, business law, or public policy. You will study core subjects that introduce legal reasoning and institutions and develop practical competencies in research, writing and advocacy.

• Core subjects: Introduction to Law and Legal Systems, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Torts, Contracts and Civil Procedure.
• Skills and methods: Legal Research and Writing, Evidence and Trial Practice, Legal Ethics, Analytical Methods for Legal Studies.
• Specialist electives: Administrative Law, Family Law, Employment and Labour Law, Business Organizations, Regulatory Compliance, Immigration Law, Juvenile Law.
• Capstone and experiential learning: A senior seminar or capstone project that synthesises theory and practice, plus options for internships, practicum placements with local courts, law firms, government agencies or non-profit organisations.
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: Courses from political science, criminal justice, business and sociology are commonly taken to broaden context and career options.

Entry requirements

Applicants to Ramapo College are assessed on a holistic basis. For first‑year entry, typical requirements include a high school diploma or equivalent and submission of secondary school transcripts. Standardised test submission may be optional depending on the College's current admissions policy; consult the admissions office for details. Competitive applicants usually present a solid academic record in humanities and social science subjects and a personal statement that outlines interest in legal studies.

Transfer students should provide college transcripts; prior coursework in writing, political science or criminal justice can be considered for credit. Mature and non‑traditional applicants are welcome and should document relevant experience or prior learning.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Non‑Professional Legal Studies programme pursue a range of career paths that do not require a law licence but make strong use of legal knowledge and skills. Common roles include:

• Paralegal or legal assistant in private firms, corporate legal departments or government agencies.
• Court clerk, case manager or support roles within the judiciary and public defenders’ or prosecutors’ offices.
• Compliance or regulatory affairs assistant in finance, healthcare or industry sectors.
• Policy analyst or research assistant for think tanks, advocacy groups and government bodies.
• Human resources, mediation support, or roles in victim services and community organisations.

Many graduates also use the degree as preparation for graduate study, including law school, public administration, or social science graduate programmes.

Why study at Ramapo College of New Jersey

Ramapo College offers small class sizes and a liberal arts environment that fosters close interaction with faculty who bring practical legal and policy experience into the classroom. The College emphasises experiential learning: students routinely access internships and practicum opportunities with New Jersey courts, state agencies, non‑profits and law offices, and benefit from the campus’s proximity to New York City for additional professional placements.

The department encourages applied research, moot and mock‑trial activities, and cross‑disciplinary study to help students build transferable skills in critical thinking, written and oral communication, and ethical judgement. Career services and alumni networks support internships and job placement, making Ramapo a practical choice for students seeking a robust undergraduate foundation in legal studies without pursuing professional licensure.