Not sure what classes to take in your first term at PSU? Use the guides below for suggestions, and if you are comfortable registering, please do so then schedule an advising appointment during the fall term. You can also email your questions or concerns to upgap@pdx.edu.
GENERAL SUGGESTIONS:
- Full-time is 12 credits. Most courses are 4 credits, so three courses is typically considered full-time. You should also budget 2-3 hours per credit outside of class for homework and studying.
- Consider the times when courses are offered and how they fit in your personal schedule/preferences. If you are not a morning person, you may want to avoid 8 am courses. If you have school-aged children, how does that impact your choices?
- Pre-law is not a major, and there is not a specific set of courses required to prepare for law school. The courses below are recommendations that will also apply to the Law & Legal Studies minor. You should also consult the guide for your intended major and include these courses, if you can.
First-Year Students and Transfers with fewer than 90 credits:
- PS 101 US Government (4 credits)
- PS 221 Intro to Law & Legal Studies (4 credits)
Transfers with 90 or more credits:
If you don't have credit for the courses above, consider any of these courses:
- CCJ 310 American Courts (4 credits)
- PHL 311U The Morality of Punishment
- PS 421 The Supreme Court & American Politics (4 credits)
Return to top of page