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Legal Studies
Online Bachelor's Degree Program

A new you awaits. Earn a bachelor's degree in legal studies online to build a foundation in pre-law, kickstart your career and become possible.

Program Length

36 Mo.

Credits

125

Format

Online

Cost Per Credit

$515
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Learn online and take the next step in your career

AccreditationAccredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Transfer creditUp to 93 approved credits1
CertificationPrep for the Certified Paralegal Examination (NALA)
PathwaysEarn dual credit towards an MBA program; steppingstone to apply for law school (bachelor’s degree path)
QuickPathsTransfer credit, stackable credentials, and adaptive learning technology build a faster pathway to a higher education with Herzing University

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Ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of the best online bachelor's programs in 2025

Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies - Online

The Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies degree is a 125-credit undergraduate program which prepares you for a variety of entry-level careers in legal studies. 

The online degree program provides students with fundamental knowledge and skills in legal research, contract law, family law, law office procedures, ethics, torts, and much more.

A confident woman in a navy blazer standing outside a courthouse, holding a portfolio, symbolizing career paths in law and legal studies at Herzing University.

  • Career-focused curriculum

    Discover the crucial knowledge and skills required to succeed in your work and build a foundation for continued career growth.

  • Flexible schedule

    We work hard to help you maintain school-life balance, striving to be as flexible as possible for busy non-traditional students.

  • Virtual services

    Access to extensive virtual services, including academic advising, tutoring, support services, technical support and library services.

  • Lifelong support

    We support your ongoing career advancement by providing comprehensive, personalized student services with lifelong career coaching.

  • Rolling admissions

    No application deadlines to worry about. Apply when you’re ready and prepare to get started soon.

Curriculum

Legal Studies program online classes & curriculum details

Designed to provide students with a more advanced understanding of law, the Herzing online legal studies program incorporates core business courses to provide a strong background in administration and management.

Graduates are prepared for careers in legal administration, legal assisting, business and management training. The bachelor’s degree path is also a great starting point for those seeking to apply to law school to become a lawyer.

All classes are delivered online with a capstone or internship (if available in your state).

ProgramMonths iCredit
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies36125

iAverage number of months for students to complete program 
Program availability varies by location

Required Management Core Courses

All courses, 33.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This introductory course in accounting provides the practical application of the principles of financial accounting for service and merchandising businesses. Topics include an introduction to the conceptual framework of accounting using GAAP rules established by FASB, analysis and recording of transactions in the general journal and posting to the general ledger, completion of the accounting cycle by preparing end-of-period adjusting and closing journal entries, financial statements and the post-closing trial balance, an introduction to internal controls, and the calculation of inventory and cost of goods sold using the FIFO, LIFO, and weighted average methods.

This course introduces corporate financial management and analysis. Topics include evaluating financial performance, measuring cash flow, capital budgeting, and the cost of capital.

This course is designed for students aiming to ascend to new heights in their careers and master the art of business leadership. This course offers a blend of personal growth strategies and business acumen, tailored to equip students with the insights, skills, and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the modern business world.

This course presents an overview of technology-based issues within a business environment. Topics include the concept of digital firms and ERP systems in the areas of marketing, operations, human resources, manufacturing, finance, social networking, and supply-chain management. Additional areas to be discussed are privacy issues, government regulations, and technology on a global scale.

This course provides an overview of the principles and applications of marketing in organizations. Topics include the marketing process and strategic planning, the global marketing environment, developing marketing opportunities and strategies, developing the marketing mix through product development, pricing strategies, distribution channels, promotion techniques, managing marketing through customer relationships, social responsibility, and marketing ethics.

The focus of this course is to introduce students to the basic principles of human behavior that effective managers use when managing individuals and groups in organizations. The overall goal of this course is to develop an understanding of the key issues managers need to master in order to manage the interface between people and organizations. Topics include theories relating to individual differences in abilities and attitudes, attribution, motivation, group dynamics, power and politics, leadership, conflict resolution, organizational culture, and organizational structure and design.

Or  Semester Credit Hours: 3.00

This course examines the form, organization, and function of administrative agencies in the context of a democratic constitutional system. The course looks at agency rulemaking, enforcement, and adjudication and also examines the legislative, executive, and judicial control of those functions.

This course presents an overview of problem modeling and decision making. The class will introduce students to several quantitative models applicable to problems in a variety of functional areas of business. Students will be able to apply quantitative analysis to real-world management problems.

Or  Semester Credit Hours: 3.00

This course provides an overview of economics and the economy from a microeconomics perspective. Topics include economic analysis, factors in the market system, market structure and pricing strategies, the availability of resource markets, supply and demand, and the impact of public policy on markets.

This course provides an overview of economics and the economy from a macroeconomics perspective. Topics include an introduction to economic concepts, the fundamentals of macroeconomics, macroeconomic theory and policy, the role of money, banking, and monetary policy, and the relationship of macroeconomics to the global economy.

Or  Semester Credit Hours: 3.00

This course introduces students to the process of conducting research, integrating research into written work, and understanding information literacy as a sociocultural phenomenon.  The research process involves assessing the rhetorical situation, engaging in preliminary research, developing research questions, taking stock of current knowledge, identifying gaps in current knowledge, using appropriate search tools and strategies, critically reading and evaluating information, and refining search strategies as necessary.  Integrating sources into written work involves understanding why, when, and how to use and document sources.  Microsoft Word will be used to format documents according to APA standards. Understanding information literacy as a sociocultural phenomenon involves identifying barriers to entering scholarly conversations and examining the way various cultures view information as a commodity, means of education, means to influence, and a means of negotiating and understanding the world. 

Required Introductory Legal Studies Courses

All courses, 30.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course provides an overview of the paralegal profession and an introduction to the law and legal procedures. Topics include paralegal duties and responsibilities, ethical issues in legal assisting, sources of American law and legal concepts, the court system and government regulations, corporate law, civil litigation and trial procedures, criminal and administrative law and procedures, conducting interviews and investigations, and legal research and analysis.

This course is a practical introduction to the law library and its resources and the fundamentals of traditional and electronic legal research. Emphasis is placed on the paralegal's practical role and skill in assisting the attorney in legal research. Topics include the various research tools, including codes, reporters, digests, Shepard's, legal encyclopedias, treaties, law reviews, practice manuals, Westlaw, and CD ROM and Internet research.

This course is designed to examine contract basics by explaining what a contract is and the various contract types. Key elements to most contracts are covered along with an explanation of how U.S. law governs contractual activity, including enforcement and dispute resolution options and the three requirements of a contract (offer, consideration, and acceptance). The course also examines who can enter into a contract, how to approach negotiation, designing of a written contract, unfair and improper contracts, contract termination, breach, voiding and rescission claims, and details on special contract situations, including real estate, financing, and social contracts, and Internet use.

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with the basic legal terms of torts and personal injury law, help the student identify the various types of torts and the defenses a defendant may raise to each, and to provide a practical, hands-on learning experience in related terminology and in drafting the documents necessary to practice in this area of the law.

This course is intended to provide the student with a thorough working knowledge of family law. Along with in-depth topical knowledge, the course addresses the important skills required of a paralegal in family law including interviewing and legal drafting.

This course presents an in-depth study of the Codes of Professional Responsibility from the American Bar Association as well as the Code of Judicial Conduct and existing guidelines and case law involving paralegals.

This course presents a study of the operation of a private law firm from the perspective of a legal assistant/paralegal. Topics include personnel and their responsibilities, managerial concepts, the various systems and procedures in the law office including timekeeping and billing systems, word processing, file organization and management, accounting/bookkeeping systems, trust accounts, docket control, tickler systems, conflicts checks, client development and case management, and current legal office software.

This course provides an intensive examination of the role of the paralegal in civil litigation. Topics include litigation and the paralegal's role, the courts and their jurisdiction, ethical considerations, investigation and evidence procedures, the initial pleadings and response to the initial pleading, motion practice, discovery procedures and requests, settlements and alternative dispute resolution, trial techniques, and post-trial practices.

This course allows the student to apply practical legal research skills to the drafting and preparation of typical documents that the paralegal will be expected to prepare by their supervising attorney. Topics include research memoranda, client correspondence, demand letters, appellate briefs, incorporation documents, partnership agreements, wills, leaves, promissory notes, and medical record summaries.

This course is designed to review the legal studies courses taken in the various programs and prepare the student to take the National Association of Legal Assistants' (NALA) Certified Paralegal Examination. This examination is a two-day comprehensive examination administered at various locations across the United States.

Required Advanced Legal Studies Courses

All courses, 9.00 semester credit hours, are required.

This course is a study of the administration of a private law firm from the perspective of a paralegal office manager. Topics include supervision of paralegal personnel, management of timekeeping and billing systems, document control, client development, and case management.

This course provides an overview of the nine most common ways of doing business in this country. Emphasis is placed on the corporate form, beginning with the formation of a corporation as well as the financial structure, corporate management, dividends, and termination of corporate existence.

This course is designed to build on the basic skills of the student in legal research and other information by using the computer. By searching Internet resources and legal databases, the student performs exercises in researching topics in business, bankruptcy, taxes, trademarks, employment law, environmental law, and other topics.

Open Elective Courses

A minimum of 12.00 semester credit hours is required. At least 6.00 semester credit hours must be paralegal (PL) courses.

Dual Credit Courses

Eligible students can replace up to 9.00 semester credit hours of the core program requirements with approved dual credit graduate level coursework. A total of 12.00 graduate semester credit hours can be taken throughout the student's program. Graduate Program Applicable Dual Credit Courses Master of Business Administration Master of Business Administration in Business Analytics Master of Business Administration in Healthcare Management Master of Business Administration in Project Management BU 502 Leadership and Team Dynamics BU 520 Integrated Economics and Decision-Making BU 631 Project Management for Business Leaders

Required Project Management

3.00 semester credit hours are required.

The course is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and essential skills required for the successful initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closure of projects. It offers a comprehensive overview of project management principles and practices, emphasizing the critical role of effective project management in achieving project objectives within constraints such as time, quality, and budget.

Or  Semester Credit Hours: 3.00

Required Capstone or Internship

3.00 semester credit hours are required.

This is an integrative course that allows students to identify a real-world legal problem and provide a recommended solution based upon legal research, case law and legislative history. Each student selects a topic or project, with instructor approval, and completes a paper which documents the process, including the use of industry-standard research methods. The final written work product may be in the form of a scholarly article of publishable quality, a seminar-type paper, a model bill and the supporting memorandum, a draft complaint or petition and supporting memorandum, the formal documents and supporting memorandum for a transactional project, or a brief (on the merits or as an amicus), to name just a few examples.

This is an elective course students take in their final semester. The internship course is designed for students interested in pursuing a career in legal studies and its related fields. The outcome of the internship is an informed student fully apprised of the opportunities his/her degree program offers for professional growth. During the internship phase of training, the student will experience various aspects of working in the actual field in which the student has been educated. The internship is designed to provide the student with the opportunity to experience and participate in duties typical of a contemporary workplace setting. Student learning will center on observing experienced personnel as well as participating in actual hands-on procedures under close supervision of trained professionals.

Note: * Online students in some states may not be allowed to take this internship due to state restrictions.

Required Courses in General Education

Students enrolled in this bachelor's degree must complete a minimum of 33.00 semester credit hours in general education distributed among the following disciplines. Refer to the General Education section of the catalog for specific information about courses within each discipline. 9.00 Semester Credit Hours in Communications 9.00 Semester Credit Hours in Humanities (must include 3 semester credit hours of cultural diversity) 6.00 Semester Credit Hours in Mathematics 3.00 Semester Credit Hours in Science 6.00 Semester Credit Hours in Social and Behavioral Sciences

Personal and Professional Development Courses

2.00 semester credit hours are required.

This course is designed to introduce students to methodologies that will prepare them for academic and professional success.  Topics include but are not limited to Canvas support, student support services, e-books, university policies, resumes, self-reflection, time management, goal setting, and strategies for anxiety reduction.

This course provides an opportunity for students to critically examine their skills and develop a plan to further their career and own financial literacy. Topics include research, job searching, developing career documents, refining interview and communication skills, and creating a personal budget.

Tuition & Cost 

Tuition & Cost

The cost of tuition for the legal studies program is $515 per credit.

You can potentially earn even greater savings by transferring credit from prior college coursework, applying for financial aid, or potential partnership opportunities through your employer.

Our goal is your career advancement. That's why we are always working to improve our curriculum and processes to make our program as affordable as possible while preparing you best for success in your work.

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  • Scholarships & Financial Aid

    You may be eligible for multiple scholarships and grants, both through Herzing University and several national scholarship websites.

    Find scholarships and grants  

  • Military/Veteran Discounts

    Veterans, Active Duty U.S. Servicemembers, and spouses may qualify for a 10% tuition discount or tuition reduction to $250 per credit.

    VA/Military benefits  

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Requirements 

Admissions requirements

Prerequisites to enroll in the Herzing University Legal Studies bachelor's degree program include:

  • Prior education requirement. Completion of high school diploma, GED, or equivalent.
  • Entrance testing. Applicants must demonstrate the capacity to succeed in college-level courses via prior ACT/SAT scores, completion of prior college credit, or additional entrance testing.
  • Availability of time, personal commitment, and a professional attitude. We exist to help enthusiastic students fully committed to reaching their highest career goals. Our faculty and leadership are dedicated to helping you reach them.

You will need to meet and interview with a Herzing University admissions advisor and complete an enrollment application to be admitted into the program.

If you have any additional questions regarding admissions into the program, please contact our admissions team.

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Careers

What can I do with a legal studies degree?

The training included in our online legal studies program helps you build a foundation in pre-law so you may pursue a wide variety of career paths. Holders of a bachelor’s degree in legal studies may qualify for many different types of jobs.

Examples of jobs you may pursue with a legal studies degree include:

  • Business positions such as HR representative or compliance
  • Political lobbyist & legislative liaisons
  • City/county, state or federal government jobs
  • Probation officer & parole officer
  • Real estate agent
  • University advising, career departments, libraries & research

Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

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There are a wide variety of career opportunities in law, including:

  • Lawyer / attorney
  • Paralegal / legal assistant
  • Border patrol & immigration
  • Criminal investigator
  • Criminology
  • Law enforcement
  • FBI, TSA, customs agent

Herzing’s legal studies program prepares many students for careers in business, real estate, government, research, legal office administration, and can be a strong foundation for a future career as a lawyer.

The education you will receive by earning a degree will make you an excellent candidate for many different types of jobs.

Our online bachelor of science in legal studies program takes an average of 36 months to complete, meaning you can earn a degree and be ready to start your new career in law in about 3 years.

There are many types of degrees in law, most of which are at the graduate level:

  • Juris Doctor (JD)
  • Master of Legal Studies (MLS)
  • Master of Dispute Resolution (MDR)
  • Master of Laws (LLM)
  • Doctor of Juridicial Science (SJD)

Herzing University does not offer any graduate law degree programs.

However, if you are looking to start your career in law, Herzing’s undergraduate associate and bachelor’s degree options in legal studies are a great place to begin. Earning an excellent GPA in a degree program like Herzing’s and you can position yourself well to get accepted into law school and pursue the law degree of your choice.

Are there other graduate degree options?

Yes! Your bachelor’s degree in legal studies can also prepare you for Herzing’s Masters of Business Administration (MBA) program. You can even begin to take MBA classes during your bachelor’s degree with our dual enrollment program. Many attorneys who work in business related fields may also choose to complete an MBA in addition to their JD.

Typical prerequisites to get into law school include:

  • A bachelor’s degree
  • Admissions test – take the LSAT
  • Letter(s) of recommendation
  • Personal statement
  • Any requirements unique to the school

Law schools evaluate applicants primarily based on your undergraduate GPA and LSAT score.

Note: a bachelor’s degree related to pre-law is not required to apply to law school. However, if you’re choosing an undergraduate program and seeking a career in law, a legal studies program is a great choice, and can help you affirm your interest in the law as a profession.

Yes! Many lawyers begin their careers as a paralegal / legal assistant, gain valuable experience, continue their education in a graduate program, and advance to higher roles.

If your goal is to become a lawyer or eventually climb the ladder from a legal assisting position, our Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies program provides a strong foundation in pre-law so you may qualify for and excel in law school.

A legal studies degree may be used as a stepping stone to enter law school. The Herzing legal studies program is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of how the legal system works as it relates to law, courts, clients and lawyers. Classes include pre-law topics like legal research, contract law, torts, civil litigation, legal writing and law office procedures along with core management courses and electives.

Herzing University offers associate degree and bachelor’s degree paths in legal studies. Earning an associate degree will prepare you for a job as a paralegal / legal assistant, and earning a bachelor’s in legal studies (with foundation topics in pre-law) will best prepare you for further career possibilities in law.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), paralegals earn an average salary of $66,510 per year ($31.98 per hour).* Keep in mind this is not an estimate for starting pay in an entry-level position—average pay will vary based on your experience, level of education and the state in which you work. Find the average paralegal salary by state.

The BLS reports a positive outlook for jobs over the next ten years, projecting a 1% increase in employment for paralegals and legal assistants from 2023-2033.*

Yes! Earning an undergraduate degree in legal studies helps you become eligible for the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal Examination, position yourself for a job as a paralegal / legal assistant and open many doors for advancement in the legal field.

Herzing’s legal studies program helps you build a strong foundation for a long career in law.

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  • Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

    On Campus Online

    This program is designed to provide in-depth understanding of the legal system as it relates to the law, the courts, clients, and lawyers. The core curriculum provides a solid foundation of legal, ethical, technical, and communication skills. Students will be prepared for entry-level or management training positions in office administration or other business enterprises requiring a legal studies background.

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Accreditation & Disclosures

Herzing University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

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* BLS pay estimates calculate the median annual wage for various occupations. Per the BLS the median wage for an occupation is: "The wage at which half of the workers in the occupation earned more than that amount, and half earned less. Median wage data are from the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics survey." Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook 2024. BLS median wage estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geographic market in which you want to work, and degree level and field, will affect career outcomes, including starting salary and earnings as an experienced employee. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the median salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, particular wage or salary, or other career growth.

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