Apr 25, 2024  
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Law BA


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If you enjoy analyzing arguments, like to think critically, and are interested in things like justice, social order and rights, this major might be for you. As a law major, you can get the lifelong benefits of studying the law (including some fascinating career opportunities) without the commitment of going to law school. It’s the perfect major for students who are interested in how law impacts our lives, but don’t necessarily want to be an attorney.

Visit the Law academic program page for more information about the academic experience, who you will learn from, opportunities outside of class and what you can do with this degree.

Visit the School of Law page  for contact information, a brief overview of the school and the curricular options.

Admission Criteria


  • Minimum overall and UB GPA of 2.000
  • Minimum GPA of 2.500 in any Law BA core courses already taken (LAW 101, LAW 201, LAW 202 and either LAW 301 or LAW 302)

Current UB students seeking admission to the Law BA should submit the Law Undergraduate Application form

Course Requirements


Two Subject Focus courses* (6 credits)


Select two Subject Focus courses from the following list OR* one course from Subject Focus and one course from Critical Reasoning Methods, Problems and Issues or Systems and Contexts:

Total Credits Required for Major: 42-43


Additional Degree Requirements Include:


  • Additional coursework to fulfill UB Curriculum requirements
  • Elective courses as needed to complete the 120 credit hour total

Total Credits Required for Graduation: 120


Total Credit Hours Required represents the minimum credits needed to complete this program, and may vary based on a number of circumstances. This should not be used for financial aid purposes.

Program Distinction


A student in this major is eligible for Program Distinction upon degree conferral if the criteria are met. Criteria are found under Academic Honors in the Policy and Procedure section of this Catalog. Program Distinction is noted on the official transcript.

Curricular Plan


A Curricular Plan provides a roadmap for completing this academic program and the UB Curriculum on time. Your actual plan may vary depending on point of entry to the university, course placement and/or waivers based on standardized test scores, earned alternative credit and/or college transfer credit.

First Year Fall


Total Credits: 15 or 16


First Year Spring


Total Credits: 16 or 17


Second Year Fall


Total Credits: 16


Second Year Spring


  • Credits: 3
  • Scientific Literacy 2 Credits: 3
  • Pathway Credits: 3
  • Problems & Issues (select from 3/4xx) Credits: 3
  • Elective Credits: 2

Total Credits: 14


Third Year Fall


Total Credits: 15


Third Year Spring


Total Credits: 15


Fourth Year Fall


  • Credits: 3
  • Subject Focus Elective from list F Credits: 3
  • Liberal Arts Elective (300-400 level) Credits: 3
  • Liberal Arts Elective (300-400 level) Credits: 3
  • Liberal Arts Elective (300-400 level) Credits: 3

Total Credits: 15


Fourth Year Spring


  • Subject Focus Elective from list F Credits: 3
  • Liberal Arts Elective (300-400 level) Credits: 3
  • Liberal Arts Elective (300-400 level) Credits: 3
  • Liberal Arts Elective (300-400 level) Credits: 3
  • Liberal Arts Elective (300-400 level) Credits: 1

Total Credits: 13


Total Credits Required: 120


Note: Some classes may count toward both a major and UB Curriculum requirement.

Learning Outcomes


  • Recognizing different conceptions of justice and of the social functions of law, and how to apply them in resolving disputes.
  • Describe the structure and operation of the United States legal system, and its relationship to social and economic institutions.
  • Recognize, define and explain fundamental concepts in public and private law.
  • Conduct legal research to locate and assess both primary and secondary legal sources.
  • Read, understand and interpret legal texts.
  • Engage in legal reasoning, drawing on legal authority, doctrine and evidence.
  • Communicate analysis and argument to diverse audiences, both in writing and orally.
  • Recognize and be prepared to address cultural diversity in legal and policy settings.

 

(HEGIS: 49.03 HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCI, CIP45.0101 Social Sciences, General)

 

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