What is Jurisprudence?

in the Division of Legal, Ethical, and Historical Studies
at the University of Baltimore

Since ancient times the study of law has also been the study of society as a whole. We seek to preserve this heritage. While recognizing that law is an area of professional study and practice we in the Yale Gordon College also see law as a fundamental index of human experience.

Our Jurisprudence major is, therefore, a fully interdisciplinary program focusing on pre-law education. Students take course work in legal and ethical theory, history, and government. There is also an emphasis on logic and analytical thinking, as well as textual interpretation and communications skills. The emphasis on historical and philosophical perspectives provides preparation for a wide range of professional applications in addition to the competitive process of admission to law school.

A full complement of both day and evening courses are offered and taught by full-time faculty members. Many students work full or part time while attending classes in the evenings, or they choose a combination of day and evening classes.

Program Description

Students enter the Jurisprudence program from a variety of backgrounds. Many, but not all, are headed for law school. For some exceptional students, the Jurisprudence/ Early Law School Entry program provides an opportunity for accelerated study. If accepted by the University of Baltimore's School of Law, upon completion of their junior year, students who are enrolled as undergraduate Jurisprudence majors may earn credits toward graduation in a combined program that leads to both the B.A. and J.D. degrees. Such students must have a cross-cumulative GPA (from all institutions attended) of at least 3.5, and they typically rank above the 75th percentile on the LSAT. Students should consult with their advisors about admission to the Early Law School Entry program.

Requirements:

A Bachelor of Arts degree in Jurisprudence requires a minimum of 120 total credits, including the following University and program requirements:

6 credits (two courses) of Jurisprudence foundation subjects;
6 credits (two courses) of approved philosophy courses;
12 credits (four courses) of approved history courses;
12 credits (four courses) of approved government and public policy courses;
6 credits (two courses) of approved English/communications courses;
12 credits (four courses) of University core curriculum subjects;
6 credits (two courses) of electives from any discipline.

Note: This listing assumes that students enter UB with 60 hours of lower division credits and with all lower division general education completed.
Note Also: The Jurisprudence/Early Entry Program also requires a minimum of 120 credits including credits from law school. Students should consult with the Program Director for further information.

Jurisprudence majors select the appropriate number and combination of approved interdisciplinary courses in order to fulfill the degree requirements in consultation with an adviser.