Illinois State University United States

Legal Studies (B.A.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies at Illinois State University is designed for students eager to understand the intricacies of the legal system and develop essential skills for paralegal careers or further legal education. You will explore foundational legal principles, critical thinking, and professional communication within a supportive academic environment. This undergraduate program equips you with specialized knowledge and practical abilities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to enter the legal field or prepare for law school with a strong academic grounding.

This full-time, on-campus program is structured over four years, guiding you through a comprehensive curriculum that includes core legal studies courses, general education requirements, and electives. You will engage with subjects like legal research and writing (LGS 201, LGS 203, LGS 204), and gain practical experience through potential internship opportunities. You will graduate with a robust understanding of legal procedures, enhanced research and investigation skills, and the ethical awareness necessary for success in paralegal roles or as you advance your legal studies.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Legal Studies B.A. program provides a comprehensive foundation in legal principles and analysis. Students will engage with core legal studies courses, alongside general education requirements and university-wide electives, to develop critical thinking and research skills. This curriculum is designed to prepare students for diverse career paths or further graduate study in law and related fields.

1 First Year - Fall Semester (15-16 credit hours)

ENG 101 General Education
COM 110 General Education
POL 106 General Education
Foreign language course 111-level
University-wide elective
General Education course
General Education course

2 First Year - Spring Semester (15-16 credit hours)

ENG 101 General Education
COM 110 General Education
Foreign language course 112-level
University-wide elective
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course

3 Second Year - Fall Semester (13 credit hours)

POL 196 General Education
General Education course
General Education course
General Education course
IDEAS or University-wide elective

4 Second Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

LGS 201
University-wide elective
General Education course
General Education course
AMALI course or University-wide elective

5 Third Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

LGS 203
LGS 313
LGS major elective
LGS major elective
University-wide elective

6 Third Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

LGS 204
LGS 398A20
LGS major elective
University-wide elective
University-wide elective

7 Fourth Year - Fall Semester (15 credit hours)

LGS 370
LGS 398A20
University-wide elective
University-wide elective
B.S.-SMT or B.A. foreign language

8 Fourth Year - Spring Semester (15 credit hours)

LGS 371
LGS 398A20
Senior level University-wide elective
Senior level University-wide elective
University-wide elective

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,132.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 96,528.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,000.00 - USD 1,600.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Illinois Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingCorrections & RehabilitationCriminal LawEconomic Research & PolicyInsurance & Risk ManagementIntellectual Property LawPolice & Public SafetyPrivate Security & Risk ManagementTax & Financial LawWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Legal Aid Board

Murray Legal Group

State Farm

Why Study Legal Studies (B.A.) at Illinois State University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

Illinois State University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Illinois State University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Legal Studies (B.A.) at Illinois State University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during terms and full-time during breaks without additional permits. Off-campus work may be possible after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English proficiency requirements, you can submit scores from Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Each test has specific score requirements that you must meet for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include paralegal, legal assistant, legal researcher, compliance officer, and law clerk.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies at Illinois State University covers foundational legal principles and critical thinking skills. This program is perfect for those aiming to pursue paralegal careers or further legal education.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

You can start the Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies program in January, June, or August. This allows for flexibility in planning your educational journey.
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