Pre-Law
Build the foundation for success in law school and beyond
The Pre-Law program at Kentucky Wesleyan College provides rigorous preparation in critical thinking, writing, and analysis. With courses in political science, history, and communication, plus individualized advising, students are ready to excel in law school and pursue impactful legal careers.
Pre-Law Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan, the Pre-Law track prepares students to thrive in law school and beyond. Students take courses in political science, history, communication, and philosophy to sharpen their analytical and writing skills. Faculty mentors provide individualized advising to guide students through course selection, internships, and law school preparation. Engaged learning opportunities include moot court simulations, debates, and service-learning projects that bring legal concepts into real-world contexts. Internships with law firms, government offices, and nonprofits provide hands-on experience and valuable networking. A strong emphasis on communication, ethics, and problem-solving ensures graduates are prepared to serve as thoughtful, principled leaders in the legal profession. With this preparation, students gain the academic foundation and professional readiness needed for admission to law school.
Career Paths
Lawyer (with Law School) – Lawyers represent clients in civil or criminal cases, draft legal documents, and provide counsel on legal issues. Pre-Law studies provide the critical reading and writing foundation for law school success.
Judge (with Advanced Legal Practice) – Judges preside over courts, interpret laws, and ensure fair proceedings. This role requires extensive legal experience after law school and is one of the most respected positions in the profession.
Paralegal or Legal Assistant – Paralegals conduct research, draft legal documents, and assist attorneys in case preparation. This role provides valuable experience and can serve as a stepping stone to law school.
Policy Analyst – Policy analysts evaluate laws and regulations, conduct research, and recommend reforms. They influence legislation and public policy through work in government, advocacy, or nonprofit organizations.
Corporate Counsel (with Law School) – Corporate counsel serve as in-house attorneys for businesses, advising on contracts, compliance, intellectual property, and other legal issues critical to organizational success.
Government or Nonprofit Professional – Many Pre-Law graduates serve in public agencies or advocacy organizations, using their legal knowledge to shape policy, promote justice, and serve communities.
Pre-Law Program Requirements
Pre-Law is a pre-professional track that can be combined with majors such as Political Science, History, English, or Philosophy. Students complete coursework that emphasizes critical reading, persuasive writing, and logical reasoning. Recommended courses include Constitutional Law, American Government, Communication Theory, Ethics, and Legal Research and Writing. Faculty advisors work closely with students to help prepare for the Law School Admission Test (LSAT), identify internship opportunities, and strengthen law school applications. Moot court, debate, and service-learning experiences provide additional preparation by simulating the challenges of legal practice. This flexible and rigorous track ensures students are well-prepared for law school admission and future careers in the legal profession.
Employers that hire KWC Pre-Law graduates
Graduates of KWC with a Pre-Law degree have gone on to work at organizations like:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Commonwealth of Kentucky Administrative Office of the Courts
- Commonwealth Attorneys Office
- United States House of Representatives, Chief of Staff
- Daviess County Circuit Court Judge
- US Air Force, Judge Advocate General's Office
- Kentucky Bar Association
- Legislative Research Commission, Commonwealth of Kentucky
