Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad foundation in legal principles, legal reasoning and the institutions that administer law. Coursework emphasises substantive law, legal research and writing, and the practical skills needed for law-related roles in a range of organisations.

Core topics and typical modules

• Introduction to Law and Legal Systems — overview of common law, statutory interpretation and the role of courts and administrative agencies.
• Legal Research and Writing — techniques for finding authority, preparing memos, drafting letters and clear legal writing.
• Civil Law and Procedure — fundamentals of civil litigation, pleadings and courtroom processes.
• Criminal Law and Procedure — elements of offences, constitutional protections and procedural safeguards.
• Business and Contract Law — contract formation, obligations and commercial law basics relevant to business settings.
• Evidence and Ethics — rules of evidence, professional responsibility and ethical issues affecting legal practice.
• Administrative and Regulatory Law — how agencies create and enforce rules, and avenues for administrative appeal.
• Specialist electives — options commonly include family law, juvenile justice, tribal law, mediation and dispute resolution, intellectual property or employment law.
• Practical experience — supervised internships, practicum placements or a capstone project that allow students to apply skills in courts, law offices, government agencies or non-profit organisations.

Courses are delivered through lectures, smaller seminars and experiential components. Students typically combine major requirements with general education and elective units to complete the bachelor’s degree.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or recognised secondary qualification. Admissions decisions are based on a combination of high school grades, coursework, and other supporting materials such as personal statements or references where requested.

• Typical conditional entry will reference a competitive high school GPA and completion of core subjects including English; some programmes consider the strength of social science or humanities preparation.
• Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts; credit may be awarded for completed post-secondary coursework relevant to the degree.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or prior study in English.
• There is no professional licensure component within this major; students planning to pursue law school should check additional preparatory expectations or pre-law advising resources.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in Non-Professional Legal Studies move into a wide range of law-related and administrative roles. The programme develops practical legal skills and contextual understanding valued by employers across sectors.

• Paralegal or legal assistant positions in private firms, in-house legal departments and government agencies.
• Compliance, risk management and regulatory affairs roles within corporations, non-profits and public-sector bodies.
• Court administration, probation and other positions within the justice system.
• Policy analysis, legislative assistance or advocacy roles in think tanks, NGOs and governmental offices.
• Careers in tribal government and public administration, particularly relevant in the region surrounding Northern Arizona University.
• Preparation for further study: many graduates pursue related graduate degrees or law school (applicants should verify prerequisites for professional law programmes).

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers this programme within a campus environment that emphasises experiential learning and community engagement. Smaller class sizes allow for close interaction with faculty who bring practical and academic expertise in legal and justice-related fields.

• Location advantages: the Flagstaff campus provides proximity to state and local courts, government offices and a range of community organisations, facilitating internship and practicum opportunities.
• Regional relevance: students can gain exposure to issues in tribal law and rural justice through partnerships and placements with local and tribal agencies.
• Support services: advising, career services and pre-law guidance help students plan internships, careers and further study paths.
• Flexible study pathways: the degree accommodates students seeking immediate entry to the workforce as well as those preparing for graduate or professional legal education.