Prelaw is not a curriculum, curricular option, or academic program, because there are no specific prerequisites for law school. The most important factor in determining which area of study a student should undertake is his or her interest outside of law. The traditional view that political scientists and historians are the only candidates with free access to law school is false. Law schools expect and admit candidates with diversified backgrounds ranging from biology to environmental policy, institutions, and behavior; environmental and business economics; and all other programs of the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.
Certain courses or areas, however, may prove helpful to students who wish to pursue a career in law. Some background in accounting, government, economics, history, logic, and political science is valuable for prelaw students. Communications skills are vital to lawyers, and courses in speech and expository writing are recommended for students interested in a career in law. Another important area is reading comprehension and speed. Students who have average or below average skills should consider taking a course in reading comprehension and skills offered at the university.
Students interested in applying to law school should contact the school's Office of Academic Programs in Martin Hall, 2nd floor, or access the Pre-Law Advising website at: http://undergraduate.rutgers.edu/prelaw.shtml.
