UNIVERSITY OF MARY WASHINGTON · UNITED STATES
Philosophy: Pre-Law Track, B.A.
Bachelor's · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
Bachelor's
Level
- B.A. degree in Philosophy and Religious StudiesDegree Awarded
- Specialized preparation for law schoolFocus
- Develops critical thinking and argumentation skillsSkills
- Includes courses on Logic, Ethics, and Philosophy of LawCore Curriculum
- Opportunity for law-related internshipsPractical Experience
- Total 33 credits in Philosophy major coursesMajor Credits
The Philosophy: Pre-Law track at the University of Mary Washington offers a Bachelor of Arts degree designed to provide a strong foundation for students considering a future in law or related fields. This program delves into the historical and contemporary aspects of philosophical inquiry, equipping students with critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective communication skills. It encourages a comprehensive understanding of fundamental truths, ethical principles, and the application of abstract ideas to real-world issues. By studying philosophy, students develop the ability to analyze and construct arguments, communicate complex ideas in writing, and conduct independent research. The Pre-Law specialization within the philosophy major specifically tailors coursework to prepare students for the rigors of legal studies, exploring concepts of law, ethics, and justice. This multidisciplinary approach fosters intellectual curiosity and prepares graduates for responsible citizenship and leadership roles.
Curriculum
The B.A. in Philosophy: Pre-Law requires 120 credits for graduation, including the major requirements, general education courses, and electives. The Philosophy major itself comprises 33 credits, with specific courses in core philosophy, philosophy and law, history of philosophy, value theory, and electives. A minimum of 15 credits must be at the 300/400 level. The curriculum is structured to build knowledge progressively over four years.
- Freshman
- First-Year SeminarFSEM 100
- Introduction to EthicsPHIL 160
- Introduction to LawPHIL 110
- Introductory LogicPHIL 151B
- General Education Courses
- Sophomore
- Ancient Greek PhilosophyPHIL 201
- Philosophy of Law IPHIL 320
- Early Modern PhilosophyPHIL 202
- General Education Courses or Electives
- Junior
- AestheticsPHIL 212
- Philosophy of Law IIPHIL 325
- History of Philosophy Elective (e.g., Hegel, Marx, Nietzsche)PHIL 303
- General Education Courses or Electives
- Senior
- BuddhismPHIL 284
- Research in PhilosophyPHIL 485
- Elective in Major
- General Electives
Careers
A degree in Philosophy, particularly with the Pre-Law specialization, provides excellent preparation for a wide range of careers, especially those requiring strong analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills. Graduates are well-suited for further academic study or professional programs.
- Lawyer
- Paralegal
- Mediator
- Government official
- Policy analyst
- Journalist
- Researcher
- Educator
Frequently asked questions
- What degree will I earn from the Philosophy: Pre-Law Track program?
- You will earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Philosophy and Religious Studies from the University of Mary Washington. This program provides specialized preparation for law school.
- What are the entry requirements for international students?
- International applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet general university admission standards. You will also need to submit official high school transcripts, proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS), and financial documentation.
- What is the duration and credit structure of the program?
- The B.A. program requires 120 credits for graduation, typically completed over four years. The Philosophy major itself comprises 33 credits, with a minimum of 15 credits at the 300/400 level.
- What career paths can I pursue with this degree?
- Graduates are well-prepared for careers requiring strong analytical and critical thinking skills, such as Lawyer, Paralegal, Mediator, Government official, Policy analyst, Journalist, Researcher, and Educator. The program also serves as excellent preparation for further academic or professional legal studies.
- How do international students apply to the program?
- International students should complete the undergraduate application, submit official high school transcripts (potentially evaluated), provide proof of English language proficiency, and include financial documentation. SAT/ACT scores and letters of recommendation may also be required.
Entry requirements
High School Diploma or equivalentMust meet general university admission standards.
International applicants should refer to the University of Mary Washington's admissions page for specific requirements regarding transcripts, evaluations, and English language proficiency.
Fees
Tuition (international)Please refer to the University of Mary Washington's official tuition and fees page for the most current international student rates.
Tuition (home)Please refer to the University of Mary Washington's official tuition and fees page for the most current domestic student rates.
LivingEstimated living costs are not provided on the program page. Please consult the university's housing and student life sections.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. International students should verify all costs with the university's admissions and financial aid offices.
How to apply
1. Application SubmissionComplete and submit the undergraduate application for admission through the university's designated portal.
2. Academic TranscriptsSubmit official high school transcripts. Transcripts from international institutions may require evaluation by a credential evaluation service.
3. English Language ProficiencyProvide proof of English language proficiency through standardized tests like TOEFL or IELTS, or other accepted methods. Specific score requirements should be verified with the admissions office.
4. Standardized Test ScoresSubmit SAT or ACT scores if required for international applicants. Check the admissions website for current policies.
5. Essays/Personal StatementInclude any required essays or personal statements as part of the application.
6. Letters of RecommendationSubmit letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors who can attest to your academic abilities.
7. Financial DocumentationProvide necessary financial documentation to demonstrate your ability to fund your education.
8. Application FeePay the non-refundable application fee.
Accreditation
The University of Mary Washington is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Frequently asked questions
What degree will I earn from the Philosophy: Pre-Law Track program?
+
You will earn a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Philosophy and Religious Studies from the University of Mary Washington. This program provides specialized preparation for law school.
What are the entry requirements for international students?
+
International applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet general university admission standards. You will also need to submit official high school transcripts, proof of English language proficiency (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS), and financial documentation.
What is the duration and credit structure of the program?
+
The B.A. program requires 120 credits for graduation, typically completed over four years. The Philosophy major itself comprises 33 credits, with a minimum of 15 credits at the 300/400 level.
What career paths can I pursue with this degree?
+
Graduates are well-prepared for careers requiring strong analytical and critical thinking skills, such as Lawyer, Paralegal, Mediator, Government official, Policy analyst, Journalist, Researcher, and Educator. The program also serves as excellent preparation for further academic or professional legal studies.
How do international students apply to the program?
+
International students should complete the undergraduate application, submit official high school transcripts (potentially evaluated), provide proof of English language proficiency, and include financial documentation. SAT/ACT scores and letters of recommendation may also be required.