Why study Legal Studies?

Law is an integral part of all facets of our society. Students will benefit from learning about law, the governmental institutions where law is created, the impact of law on our economy and other aspects of our society, and the legal profession. The certificate will be valuable for students who will pursue careers in which knowledge of law will benefit them, such as business, journalism, criminal justice, medicine, engineering, product design, and many other careers.

Further, this certificate program will benefit students considering attending law school.

Students should review and declare the certificate early (2nd or 3rd year) to enable flexibility in scheduling options.

Admission Requirements

Students admitted to this certificate must be in good academic standing and have a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA from all colleges attended.

Students already pursuing a degree in any college at UC can add the certificate to their program. Be sure to submit a declaration of the certificate program using our online form.

In addition, you must meet with the program director so that they are aware that you are pursuing the certificate and can advise you appropriately. Do this early enough to avoid delay in obtaining your certificate.

Students not currently pursuing a degree may declare the certificate after establishing non-matriculated status.

The Legal Studies certificate develops the strong analytical skills necessary for interpreting and evaluating arguments that can be applied in a variety of professional settings. Legal Studies students have a passion for how the law impacts different populations and our communities. Through in-class discussion and hands-on experiential learning opportunities, students work with award-winning faculty across the university to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems that relate to law.  These unique experiences make them strong candidates for employment in government, private businesses, and the non-profit sector, as well as candidates for Law school and other graduate programs. 

The certificate will be valuable for students who will pursue careers in which knowledge of law will benefit them, such as business, journalism, criminal justice, medicine, engineering, product design, and many other careers.

The College of Arts and Sciences provides advising to all A&S students to advance each individual student’s educational goals and plans.  Further A&S information can be found here.

For further information, please contact the SPIA program director, whose name and information appear on this page.

The School of Public and International Affairs faculty provide advising about course content, specific program requirements, professional opportunities, and post-baccalaureate education.  Faculty advisors and office hours are provided on the SPIA website.

Students in UC's College of Arts and Sciences enjoy many benefits afforded through study at a research-intensive institution ranked among the nation's top 25 public research universities. UC's urban, Tristate location offers exciting opportunities for global education, research and service learning, while its student-centered focus includes an 11:1 student-faculty ratio, a nationally recognized Center for Exploratory Studies and a highly successful First Year Experience program that teaches critical skills for first-year students and provides connections with important campus resources.

Admission for this certificate program is limited to those that are currently in the United States, as this program is not available to pursue on a full time basis.  No visas can be provided for this educational opportunity.  The UC Admissions website provides information for international applicants. 

The University of Cincinnati and all regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Contact Information

Dr. Alexander Thurston
Room 5114A Clifton Court Hall
2800 Clifton Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45221-0375
(513) 556-3320
SPIA-UG@uc.edu

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Program Code: 15CRT-LEGS-C2