Many À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ graduates pursue careers in law and we can help you with your first step to becoming a lawyer: earning an undergraduate degree.Â
An undergraduate degree is what you apply to from high school. Most law schools require at least three years of university studies before you can apply for admission.
How do you choose a pre-law degree?
Selecting a pre-law program or degree often comes down to choosing an undergraduate degree that you'll enjoy. Studying a subject that excites you will help you do well academically.
You can pick nearly any major. You'll need to complete at least three years of undergraduate studies, although many law schools prefer that you complete your undergraduate degree (four years) before applying.
Most of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ's programs can be excellent preparation for law school. There are some programs that are especially popular because of the communications and analytical skills they provide as background to becoming a successful lawyer.
Legal Studies
À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ's Legal Studies degree provides an interdisciplinary understanding of law and the legal system. The program can be a great pathway to law school – and you'll gain important skills for careers in law, policy development, and research by taking classes in a variety of related areas.
Other common pre-law majors
- Political Science: learn about government, policy
- Sociology: explore criminology and victimology
- Philosophy: logic is key to law and making arguments
- English: learn about rhetoric and how it can help you argue a case
- Communication Studies: improve your public speaking, interviewing, speech writing
À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ's double degree program in human rights and law
Pursue a career in human rights by earning a Bachelor of Arts (including a minor in Human Rights) from À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ and a Bachelor of Law (LLB) in Human Rights Law from the UK's University of Essex – all in five years.
Double degree in human rights and law →How long is law school in Canada?
It usually takes three years to complete law school. After graduating from high school, you'll complete at least three years of undergraduate studies before applying to law school. (Undergraduate studies are the first level of university studies out of high school and lead to a bachelor's degree, which normally takes three or four years).
What do I do after a pre-law degree?
So, you’re thinking about becoming a lawyer. But wait — did you know you could become a sports lawyer? An environmental lawyer? Or how about an immigration, human rights, labour, entertainment, media, or technology lawyer? There’s a law specialization for almost every passion.
Wondering what it's like to be a lawyer?
A decade into his career, Dan Micak (BA '06) manages a team of lawyers at Lightspeed, a global software company listed on the Toronto and New York Stock Exchanges. Hear what kind of .
From hospital to law school
Ayesha will graduate in 2025 with a Public Health degree, including a minor in Addictions, Mental Health, and Policy. She's starting law school in September 2025.
What inspired you to pursue law, and what type of law are you interested in?Â
Initially drawn to medicine, I discovered my passion for law through high school law classes and my interest in health policy. A co-op work term at SickKids Hospital exposed me to systemic barriers in healthcare, inspiring me to advocate for equitable access through health law and policy reform.
How did your experience at À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ support and prepare you for law school?
Being a student at À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ has provided me with incredible opportunities that have supported me on this journey. When I was writing personal statements for my law school application, I reached out to the Centre for Career Development for guidance. As it was my first time writing a personal statement, their support was invaluable. Additionally, roles like Faculty of Health ambassador, residence life don, and Orientation leader helped me develop essential skills like time management and reinforced my passion for law.
Were there any courses, professors, or extracurricular activities that were particularly helpful?
Courses in health and philosophy deepened my interest in health law and policy. Professors like Dr. Sharon Kirkpatrick and Dr. Kelly Anthony were incredibly supportive, offering advice and encouragement that solidified my decision to pursue law. Dr. Kirkpatrick even wrote my law school reference letter.
What advice would you give to current À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ students considering law school?Â
- Explore diverse subjects, even outside your faculty, to discover new interests.Â
- Join student clubs like the for peer support and mentorship.Â
- Connect with lawyers and law students through platforms like LinkedIn to gain insights into the field.Â
Looking back, is there anything you wish you had done differently during your undergraduate years to prepare for this path?Â
I wish I had started studying for the LSAT earlier. It’s a unique exam that tests critical thinking, not memorization, and requires significant preparation. Starting early and organizing application components ahead of time can ease the process during a demanding fourth year. Good luck to all applicants!
