A smiling female student drips a chemical into a vial.A smiling female student drips a chemical into a vial.

Professional Studies

Professional Studies Faculty

Nemeth (chairperson), Magers, Toras, Bassi, Blume, Dawida, Govern, Smith, Scott, Uva, Morgan,  Scyphers, Kohlhepp, Noyes 


Department Mission

The Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies prepares its graduates for entry-level positions in the legal system or advancement from current position or rank. Legal studies is an eclectic field which addresses, analyzes and critiques the law and its implications from a social, administrative, occupational, operational, philosophical and managerial perspective. Special emphasis is given to the ethical considerations inherent in all legal decision making, the constitutional parameters of law and its practice and practical assessments of how law influences the culture, the community and the individual. Students will be exposed to theories of law, but just as critically, application principles and practices. Graduates will be not only learned in the law but in the roles and functions needed for many of the legal system’s present employees.

This course of study enhances the ability to advocate and argue; the capacity to research and assess; the disposition to reconcile and mediate; and the plethora of human and institutional skills necessary for action, legislation or policy implementation.

Implementation of this Web-based degree serves historically underrepresented clientele, namely those who lack the flexibility or financial resources to attend class full time, those with variable work hours or family responsibilities that make attending a traditional graduate program a difficulty.

Job Options

Legal Assistant or Paralegal, Legal Administrator, Law Office Administrator, Law Enforcement and Investigative Services, Government Service in Administrative Agencies, Legal Clerks, Private Sector Justice Positions, Business and Banking, and Graduate Study.