Academic Programs
English – Pre-Law
Overview
Turn your passion for words into a pathway to law school or launch into careers where writing, reasoning, and argumentation matter most with the English – Pre-Law Bachelor of Arts degree at Bluefield University. Grounded in rigorous liberal arts study and tailored to future legal professionals, this program strengthens your critical thinking, persuasive communication, and ethical reasoning — core skills for success in law school and beyond.
English – Pre-Law Degree Opportunities
At BU, we believe the best lawyers start as great thinkers and communicators. The Pre-Law concentration blends a strong foundation in language and literature with targeted coursework that sharpens legal reasoning and analytical writing skills essential for law school and legal professions.
- Build Critical Skills: Focus on rhetorical analysis, persuasive writing, and close reading — all vital tools in the legal field.
- Think Like a Lawyer: Courses such as Constitutional Law, American Government and Politics, and Law of Evidence offer an early look at legal concepts.
- Real-World Application: Learn with experienced faculty who help you bridge theory with practice.
- Authentic Preparation: Rather than just memorizing facts, you’ll learn to argue intelligently, write persuasively, and reason ethically — key competencies for LSAT success and law school readiness.
Quick Program Details
Tuition: $420 Per Credit Hour
Next Start On-Campus: January 2027
Next Start Online: October 2026
Time to Complete: 1-4 years*
*Time to complete can be reduced with prior learning and transfer credits
Other Available Concentrations
Literature
This concentration immerses students in a diverse range of literary works, fostering an appreciation for language and storytelling. It sharpens critical thinking and analysis skills, preparing graduates for careers in education, writing, or further academic pursuits in literature.
Writing
Focusing on developing versatile writing skills, this concentration covers creative, technical, and professional writing. Ideal for aspiring authors, journalists, or content creators, it equips students with the tools to craft compelling narratives and effective communication in various mediums.
Career Outlook
An English – Pre-Law degree from Bluefield University prepares you for a wide range of opportunities, including:
- Law School Admission – A strong academic foundation for competitive applications.
- Legal Assistant / Paralegal Roles – Critical thinking and writing skills employers demand.
- Policy Analyst or Legislative Aide – Analyze texts, craft arguments, and interpret public policy.
Journalism, Communications & Advocacy – Use persuasive communication in media, business, or nonprofit sectors.
Courses & Competencies
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Total Credits: 120
For a full breakdown of each course, reference the academic catalog located in Academic Resources.
General Education Requirements
- Introduction to the Writing Process
- Fundamentals of Speech
- Biblical Perspectives
- Developing the Christian Mind
- Math/Science* (3 Credits)
- Fine Arts/Humanities* (6 Credits)
- Social/Behavioral Science* (3 Credits)
- Degree Requirements (BA or BS/BSN)* (6 Credits)
- Personal Wellness
- ESS Activity Course* (1 Credit)
- Career Pathways I & II (2 Credits)
- Career Pathways III & IV (2 Credits)
- Career Pathways V & VI (2 Credits)
*Course or requirement includes multiple options. Online offerings may differ.
Core Requirements
- Argumentative and Analytical Writing
- History of the English Language
- English Seminar
- (Choose 4)
- Literature Appreciation
- British Literature I
- British Literature II
- American Literature I
- American Literature II
- World Literature I
- World Literature II
- Literature & Healing
- The Meaning of Myth
- Literature of Quest
- Fairy Tales
- Science Fiction
- Literature and The Life of Faith
- Appalachian Literature
- Literature: The Short Story
- Literary Nonfiction: The Fourth Genre
Concentration
- Modern English Grammar
- American Government and Politics
- Constitutional Law
- Studies in Rhetoric
- (Choose 5)
- Substantive Criminal Law
- Comparative Criminal Justice
- Law of Evidence
- Minority Issues in Criminal Justice
- Criminal Procedure
- Criminal Law
- Sport Law
- Business Communication
- Business Law
- Legal Environment of Business
- Media Law
- Technical Writing
Electives
Elective requirements for this program are detailed in the undergraduate catalog.