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Legal Studies (Minor)

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Law is fundamental to all aspects of contemporary society. This minor provides an interdisciplinary framework to investigate the cultural influences, ethical foundations, scientific advancements, and the governmental administration of law, along with the interplay between law and business.

Degrees & Offerings
  • Minor
Location
  • Bloomsburg
  • Lock Haven
  • Mansfield
Department
College
Program Contact
Professor of Economics
Illustration of Mountain

Courses and Curriculum

The courses in the minor enable students to understand the law and its myriad applications in the United States and around the world. It enhances the ability of graduates to think critically, resolve conflicts, understand the regulatory system, and participate in public policy decision-making.

Legal Studies Minor Requirements

  • 21 credits required for minor completion
  • Students should meet with their academic advisor each semester and use Degree Works to monitor their individual progress toward completion of the minor.

Minor Requirements

Students completing this program should be able to:

  1. Identify sources of American law and basic principles of key substantive areas such as tort, contract, criminal, constitutional, and property law.
  2. Identify relationships between Law and Society, Law and Government, Law and Business, and Law and Science.
Rendering of Diehl Center for Law School Preparation

Diehl Center for Law School Preparation

The Diehl Center for Law School Preparation at Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania is your go‑to resource for exploring legal careers and preparing for law school—no matter your major. Whether you’re interested in becoming a lawyer, shaping public policy, or pursuing a law‑adjacent career, the Diehl Center offers the guidance and support to help you take the next step.

Learn more about the Diehl Center
Riley Kleinfelter

Ready for the Next Chapter in Law

Riley Kleinfelter’s path from standout field hockey defender at the Mansfield to aspiring law student highlights the impact of personalized support and hands-on experiences. A political science graduate, Kleinfelter credits faculty mentorship and a wide-ranging internship with a local law firm for preparing her for the next step, as she plans to pursue law school with confidence and a strong foundation in both legal knowledge and practical skills.

From Field Hockey to Law School
Chanty Gbaye standing behind the Harvard Law School sign

From Overcoming Barriers to Harvard Law

Chanty Gbaye’s journey to Harvard Law School began with a life-changing move from Liberia to the United States and continued through opportunity and perseverance at Bloomsburg. A political science graduate who overcame early academic challenges, Gbaye found mentorship, embraced new experiences, and built a path that led to work in the U.S. Senate and, ultimately, to the nation’s top law school.

Alumnus begins law school at Harvard

Applying to This Program

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