Political Science Degree (B.A), Law Concentration

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Build a Strong Foundation in Law, Government, and Legal Analysis

Students interested in law, government, and public service will find a clear pathway through the Law Concentration within the Political Science B.A. at Westfield State University. This pre-law program is ideal for those planning to pursue law school, careers in the legal field, or graduate study in public law and government. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in political science while focusing on key topics such as constitutional law, civil liberties, judicial politics, and the role of the U.S. Supreme Court. Students gain valuable skills in legal analysis, critical thinking, research, and persuasive communication—skills essential for success in legal professions and public service. With opportunities to participate in political science internships, including Washington, D.C. placements, students graduate with real-world experience and a competitive edge. Whether you're preparing for law school or building a career in policy, advocacy, or public administration, this program offers the academic preparation and flexibility to help you achieve your goals.

Program Highlights

  • Build research, writing, and critical thinking skills
  • Explore law through politics, policy, and global issues
  • Learn from professors with legal and public sector experience
  • Connect with alumni and professionals in law and government fields

Launch your legal career with Westfield State’s Law Concentration!

Apply now and begin shaping a successful future in law and public service.

Develop Your Legal Expertise and Lead Change in Law and Public Policy

  • Student shaking hands with Senator Velis during a visit to the Student Government Association.

    Develop Critical Legal Skills and Practical Expertise

    The Law Concentration at Westfield State University emphasizes vital skills such as legal writing, policy analysis, and public speaking—key competencies for success in law school and legal careers. Through hands-on activities like mock trial exercises, research projects, and debate sessions, students gain practical experience in legal reasoning and advocacy, preparing them for competitive roles in law, government, and public service.

  • Student Government Association members seated at a table listening to a guest speaker.

    Connecting Classroom Learning with Real-World Impact

    Students gain hands-on experience by engaging directly with the community through internships and service projects at local organizations. These opportunities deepen their understanding of how law operates in everyday life while fostering meaningful professional connections. Working in real-world settings helps students develop practical insights and build a strong network that supports both career growth and civic involvement.

  • Alum hosting an employer table at the Criminal Justice Career Fair.

    Prepare for Diverse Careers in Law, Public Policy, and Advocacy

    Designed for future lawyers and public service professionals, the Law Concentration builds transferable skills like critical thinking, negotiation, and ethical decision-making. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in law firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and public policy roles, providing flexibility beyond traditional legal careers.

Program Details

Learning Outcomes
  • Students will demonstrate critical political thinking, reading, writing and speaking skills.
  • Students will identify and articulate an ideological stance.
  • Students will demonstrate the ability to evaluate the qualitative and quantitative political research of others, and conduct their own political research.

What Can You Do With a Political Science Degree (B.A.), Law Concentration?

A Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a Law Concentration opens doors to a wide range of career paths and graduate study opportunities. Here’s what you can do with it:

  • Law School Preparation
  • Paralegal or Legal Assistant
  • Court Clerk or Legal Researcher
  • Policy Analyst
  • Public Administrator
  • Lobbyist or Government Relations Specialist
  • Legislative Aide
  • Public Affairs Specialist
Student smiling on campus while wearing a Westfield State University shirt.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Requirements for the Political Science Major

39 total credits are required to fulfill this major's requirements, as defined below:

  • 12 credits of Political Science Core courses 
  • 12 credits within the chosen concentration
  • 15 credits of additional Political Science electives

Students pursuing the Interdisciplinary Options for  and  concentrations should expect to complete 18 credits within their concentration, and 9 credits of elective coursework.

Students transferring in coursework from other schools must complete a minimum of 18 credits in Political Science at Westfield State University.

The Department of Political Science encourages students to participate in internships. Students may apply up to 6 Internship credits toward the 39 credit major.

  • 3 of these Internship credits may be applied to the concentration.
  • Up to 3 of these Internship credits may be applied toward the 18-credit minor.

For details about Political Science Internship credits, please click here to view the department's Internship manual, or contact the department.

Required Major Core Courses (12 credits)

  • Required Major Courses
  • Students must select one of the following political theory courses:
  • (Additional theory courses may qualify with department chair approval)

Required Electives (9-15 credits)

Students must complete 15 credits of additional Political Science coursework.

Students pursuing the Interdisciplinary Options for  or  concentrations should expect to complete 9 credits in this area.

Law Concentration (12 credits)

This concentration is ideal for students interested in preparing for law school and related legal careers, as well as graduate study in Political Science with a focus in public law.

Choose four courses (or a total of 12 credits) from below:

  •  Additional courses may count with department chair approval
Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the  and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in  or .

Get Big School Features with Small School Advantages

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • 92%+

    of faculty hold doctorates

  • 700+

    internship opportunities

  • Study abroad

    in 35+ countries 

Learn from Experienced Faculty in Small Classes

Students in Westfield State University’s political science major program are led by a group of accomplished faculty with diverse backgrounds in law, public administration, international relations, political theory, and more. Each faculty member is dedicated to keeping up to date with current trends in the discipline through active participation in professional development, publication, and conference attendance and presentations. And, with small class sizes, students in the Political Science BA program will be able to interact closely with and learn from these experienced faculty. 

Faculty directory 

Political science students smiling with faculty at an academic awards ceremony.

Earn Two Degrees in Less Time

Westfield State University offers an Early Entry Master of Public Administration, Policy, and Civic Engagement program for outstanding undergraduates. Earn your bachelor’s and master’s degrees in just 5 years! Enroll in graduate-level courses during your senior year, with 6 credits counting toward both degrees. Develop essential skills in Public Administration and choose from concentrations like Criminal Justice Administration, Nonprofit Management, and Public Management. Become a leader in government and non-profit organizations with an MPA from WSU.

The Political Science Department also offers pre-law advising for those interested in attending law school. One of our department’s faculty serves as advisor to Westfield States’ 3+3 program with UMass Law School. Once enrolled in this program, students may complete a BA and JD degrees in six years, instead of seven years needed when following a regular path of college and law school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).   

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the established by the in order to qualify for admission to a state university. 

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. ¿Û¿Û´«Ã½ our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Political Science Degree (B.A), Law Concentration