Philosophy and Law
The Philosophy and Law major focuses on philosophical assessment of the kinds of ethical, legal, social, and political issues that students would face in a career in law or related fields.
Why study Philosophy and Law at MSU?
The Philosophy and Law major trains students’ critical reasoning ability while exploring issues they care most about. This program is designed to prepare students for careers related to law but will appeal to anyone who wants deep, rational debate about ethical, social, and political issues.
Students in this program will explore law as a balance between power and justice and tackle philosophical topics arising from penal law, constitutional law, international law, law and religion, civil rights, and other areas.
The Philosophy and Law major and Humanities – Prelaw major in the College of Arts & Letters are both designed for law school preparation.
Students most interested in an intense focus on social, legal, ethical, and political issues approach using a rigorous methodology should consider Philosophy and Law. Students who want a broader and more flexible learning experience, drawing in other areas of interest that might relate to their career plans in addition to core work on the nature of law, should consider Humanities – Prelaw.
What will you learn in the Philosophy and Law program?
The Philosophy and Law program prepares students to critically explore philosophical topics connected with law, power, and justice in legal and non-legal careers.
Students will learn:
- Critical thinking through philosophical assessment of issues.
- Ethical reasoning and decision making.
- Methods for identifying, developing, and analyzing written and oral arguments.
- Persuasion and communications skills.
What types of careers are available?
Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Law pursue careers in a range of areas including legal, public policy, and government fields. Some graduates also pursue law school and further graduate programs.