Bachelor of Arts in Law career outlook

What can I do with a bachelor's in law?

There are numerous careers for which formal legal education is beneficial, but for which a J.D. is not required. These career opportunities are in all levels of federal, state and local governments, business, compliance, insurance, law enforcement and many legal or civically engaged organizations.

Transferable skills

An undergraduate law degree offers skills in:

• Logical and critical thinking
• Oral and written communication
• Reading comprehension and analysis
• Other "hallmarks" of thinking like a lawyer
• Awareness of the political system in the U.S.
• Awareness of the criminal justice system in the U.S.
• Ability to apply a general understanding of legal practices to societal issues

Careers in law

While a B.A. in Law typically doesn’t qualify someone to practice law as an attorney (which generally requires a J.D.), it does prepare graduates for many law-related or policy-oriented roles. These career opportunities exist in all levels of federal, state and local governments: business, compliance, insurance, law enforcement and many legal or civically engaged organizations.

This data provides a broad overview of how major selection can lead to careers and is provided without any implied promise of employment. Some careers will require further education, skills or competencies. Actual salaries may vary significantly between similar employers and could change by graduation, as could employment opportunities and job titles.

Graduate study

This degree also provides a solid foundation for graduate study in:

• Business
• Criminal justice
• Engineering
• Fine, performing and communication arts
• Law (J.D., Juris Doctorate)
• Philosophy
• Political science
• Social work