Pre-Law is a pre-professional advising program supported by faculty advisors in Philosophy, History, and Political Science Departments. Pre-law is not a major, but an advising track. PSU's pre-law advising supports students who are interested in pursuing careers in the law and going to law school.
The primary faculty advisor is Chris Shortell from the Political Science department. Students who go to law school can major in anything, however, the most common majors are Political Science, Psychology, and Criminology & Criminal Justice.
PSU's pre-law advisors help students explore the law and determine if law school is the right future for them.
PSU offers unique opportunities for students who are interested in pursuing careers in the law:
- Portland Law School Fair: This fair is a pretty big deal and brings in 60 - 70 law schools, it's for the entire Portland metro, a great opportunity for students to connect and ask questions.
- Explore the Law Program: The Oregon State Bar and Multnomah Bar Association partner with PSU and support this program administered through Student Legal Services. It's a free, year-long program for students to explore and prepare for careers in law. They particularly encourage PSU students from traditionally underrepresented communities to apply for the program.
Students who work with PSU's Pre-Law advisors go on to law school and careers as lawyers. Our students have been accepted into top law programs at schools like Lewis & Clark, University of Washington, and Willamette University.