The IU School of Liberal Arts at Indianapolis offers exciting opportunities for undergraduate students who are thinking about law school and a future in the legal profession.
Our Pre-Law Program is designed to help you build a strong foundation for law school and a dynamic career in law, government, business, healthcare, entertainment, and more.
Law schools welcome students from every academic discipline, so you’re free to choose a major that truly interests you. Whether it’s Political Science, English, History, Law in Liberal Arts, or another field entirely, your curiosity and passion matter more than following a specific track.
Our courses help you develop core skills that are essential for law school success, including strong writing, confident public speaking, critical thinking, and analysis. We also offer a variety of law-related courses that give you insight into legal concepts and systems—perfect for students who want to explore the field before applying.
Pre-law advising
Whether you are just thinking about law school or have already committed to pursuing a legal career, our pre-law advisor can assist you through all stages of law school preparation. Pre-law advising is available to all IU Indianapolis students.
Join our Pre-Law Student Canvas site to find information on pre-law events, internships, and activities, helpful resources for law school preparation, and detailed modules covering everything from choosing courses to navigating the application process. If you would like to be added to our pre-law student Canvas site, send an email to pre-law advisor, Shana Stump.
Law in Liberal Arts BA
A popular major for pre-law students is Law in Liberal Arts. This bachelor's degree program is approved by the American Bar Association and is designed to prepare you for a career as a paralegal. Students with a Law in Liberal Arts major will simultaneously complete their degree coursework and the requirements for the Paralegal Certificate to receive the BA and the certificate together. This major focuses on providing students with practical legal skills as well as a background in legal concepts so you will graduate with immediate job prospects in a rapidly expanding profession.
Disclaimer: Paralegals must not engage in the unauthorized practice of law and must work under the supervision of a licensed attorney except as otherwise permitted by law.
Legal Studies Minor
Interested in how law impacts everyday life? The Legal Studies minor offers a broad, liberal arts-based introduction to legal systems and their role in society. This multidisciplinary program helps you understand how laws are created, interpreted, and applied—perfect for students curious about law’s connection to public policy, social issues, and change.
It’s not a pre-law track, but it’s a solid foundation for anyone looking to explore the legal world from multiple angles.
Six Year BA/JD Program
For first year students planning to attend law school, you can fast-track your education and earn both a Bachelor of Arts and a Doctor of Jurisprudence (JD) in just six years—instead of the usual seven. Earn your JD and you’re prepared to apply your skills in many industries including law, healthcare, business, government, law enforcement, politics and much more.
How it works:
- Years 1–3: Complete your undergraduate coursework for the Law in Liberal Arts BA through the School of Liberal Arts, Department of Political Science.
- Years 4–6: Begin law school at the IU Robert H. McKinney School of Law, working toward your Doctor of Jurisprudence JD.
Students must apply to the BA/JD Program by March 1 during the spring of their freshman year at IU Indianapolis. High School Seniors are encouraged to apply for the program. Upon acceptance into the program, students will prepare a course plan in consultation with the BA/JD academic advisor.
Related Interest
Political science and paralegal studies are closely related fields. Exploring their course offerings could help you determine how they align with your specific career goals.
More information
Contact pre-law advisor, Shana Stump.
