About the jurisprudence degree at cal u
What is a jursiprudence degree?
At its root, jurisprudence is the theory or philosophy of law. The study of jurisprudence looks at the nature of law, legal reasoning, legal system and institutions. The focus of this type of degree is on the practical application of legal concepts and the analysis of equality and judicial decisions.
PennWest California’s Bachelor of Jurisprudence Degree
Our bachelor’s degree in jurisprudence is a great choice for someone pursuing a career as a paralegal, legal assistant or justice system or law enforcement professional—or who is planning to go on to law school.
The jurisprudence B.A. concentration Legal Studies challenges students to:
- Explore the history of legal thinking and reasoning and how that affects our current legal system
- Learn to think critically and write concisely about complex legal issues
- Develop knowledge of specialized legal topics
Certificate Options
In addition to a degree in jurisprudence, our department offers undergraduate certificate
options, including a violence and incidence collaborative evaluation in schools (VICES) certificate.
What can you do with a jurisprudence degree?
Many of our Jurisprudence: Legal Studies students go on to law school—and they thrive there because they are able to think critically, write well, effectively conduct legal research and understand legal concepts.
Many B.A. in Jurisprudence graduates go on to jobs as paralegals or legal assistants; they also work as court system support personnel, real estate practitioners, law enforcement professionals, government agency employees and business owners. Jurisprudence graduates also are ready for the world of nonprofit organizations and advocacy groups. Graduates are hired by major employers including:
- Law firms.
- Title companies.
- Insurance companies.
- Real estate development firms.
- Corporate legal departments.
- Law enforcement.
- Federal and state government agencies.
Become a paralegal
As the legal work environment becomes more specialized and demanding, paralegals are more frequently called upon to perform higher-level tasks. The B.A. in Jurisprudence curriculum teaches the analytical skills required in legal thought and reasoning, preparing students to be ready to fully support supervising attorneys. Students also have numerous assignments that enable them to master legal research through Westlaw.
100% Online, but not Alone
Our B.A. and certificate programs are all 100% online, giving you the flexibility to study anywhere, any time. But that doesn’t mean that you’ll have to go it alone or feel isolated. We have a great team of professors and staff who will support you every step of the way.
All of the professors in our department work in the fields in which they teach and care deeply about student success. Classes are student-centered—professors actively participate in discussion boards and respond quickly to student questions. They also stand ready to provide career guidance and help you network in the workplace.
In addition, PennWest California is a bricks-and-mortar school that was established in 1852. We’re not going anywhere. And as an online student, you’ll have access to the wealth of people and resources at PennWest California.