Legal Studies Program

If you want to practice as a paralegal or attend law school, you may be interested in this degree program.

In this major, you’ll take the regular legal specialty sequence of courses in addition to electives in Legal Studies. All courses are taught by practicing attorneys or individuals with extensive experience in paralegal education.

You’ll also complete an internship in the legal community for further hands-on experience before you graduate.

Why Legal Studies at WSU

The WSU Legal Studies major is one of the American Bar Association (ABA)-approved four-year professional tracks in the US.

It was the first program in the state of Minnesota to be ABA approved. The program is subject to an ABA on-site re-evaluation every seven years.

WSU’s Legal Studies program has worked with several schools to assist students with their associate’s degree in earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Legal Studies from WSU.

These agreements allow students to easily transition to WSU after completing a degree at their previous institution.

Currently, WSU has agreements with:

  • North Hennepin Community College in Brooklyn Park, MN
  • Inver Hills Community College in Inver Grove Heights, MN
  • Western Technical College in La Crosse, WI

We provide guidance to ensure you have the educational experience you want. Reference the Legal Studies Recommended Course Schedule (PDF) and talk to your advisor to make sure you are on the right path. 

Skills & Careers

The Legal Studies major allows students to develop intellectual and professional skills related to law.

This program is designed to meet the needs of students who want to enter a career that demands knowledge and experience with legal systems and institutions.

This includes careers working for:

  • Law firms
  • Governmental agencies
  • Insurance companies
  • Banking institutions and more

Graduates of this program may become a legal assistant or paralegal.

A legal assistant or paralegal is someone who performs specific delegated legal work for a responsible lawyer. In other words, paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.

Contact the History & Legal Studies Department
Dr. Matthew Lungerhausen
Department Chair

Minne Hall 214

507.457.5409

Email Dr. Matthew Lungerhausen
Dr. Gregory Richard
Director of Legal Studies

Minné 209

507.457.5411

Email the Legal Studies Program
Michelle Eggerichs-Rekstad
Office Manager

Minné Hall 212

507.457.5400

Email Michelle Eggerichs-Rekstad