Which Undergraduate Program is Best for Getting into Law School?

If you are asking, “Which undergraduate program is best for getting into law school?” the short answer is this: there is no single “best” major that guarantees admission. Law schools in the USA, UK, Canada, and elsewhere accept students from many different academic backgrounds. What matters most is choosing a program that helps you build critical thinking, strong writing, research ability, and problem-solving skills.

Popular choices include Political Science, History, English, Philosophy, Business, Economics, and even STEM programs like Engineering or Computer Science. Ultimately, the best undergraduate program for getting into law school is the one that matches your strengths and interests while preparing you to succeed academically.

In this guide, we will explore different undergraduate programs that can help you stand out, explain what law schools really look for, and give practical advice to help you choose the right path.

Why Your Undergraduate Program Matters for Law School

Many students believe they must pick “pre-law” or political science to get into law school. But the truth is, law schools value skills over specific majors. They want to see that you can:

• Think critically and analyze complex issues.

• Communicate clearly in writing and speaking.

• Handle large amounts of reading and research.

• Maintain a strong GPA under academic pressure.

Your undergraduate program should provide you with opportunities to practice these skills. Whether you study liberal arts, business, or science, what matters is how well you perform and how your degree shapes your ability to reason, argue, and solve problems. Law is a broad field, and diversity in academic background is actually a strength.

Popular Undergraduate Programs for Law School

Now, let’s break down the most common undergraduate programs students choose before law school and why each one might be right for you.

1. Political Science: A Classic Choice

Political Science is often the first answer students hear when asking, “Which undergraduate program is best for getting into law school?” That’s because it gives a strong foundation in understanding government, legal systems, and public policy.

• Skills you gain:

  • Knowledge of political structures and institutions.

  • Ability to analyze policies and laws.

  • Strong research and writing practice.

• Why it works: Law schools appreciate students who understand how governments work because it connects directly to legal practice. Many graduates pursue careers in constitutional law, international law, or public service.

• Things to consider: Political science can be broad, so you’ll need to push yourself in courses that emphasize writing and theory, not just memorization.

2. History: Learning from the Past

History is another excellent undergraduate program for future law students. It trains you to interpret evidence, evaluate arguments, and build persuasive narratives—all essential skills for law.

• Skills you gain:

  • Critical analysis of historical documents and events.

  • Strong essay writing and argumentation skills.

  • Research and citation practice.

• Why it works: Law schools love history majors because they can read large volumes of material, pick out key themes, and write persuasively. A background in history also prepares you for subjects like constitutional law and legal history.

• Things to consider: History majors often deal with long reading lists and research papers, so you’ll need strong time management skills.

3. English or Literature: Building Communication Skills

If you love reading, writing, and analyzing texts, English or Literature could be the best undergraduate program for you.

• Skills you gain:

  • Clear and persuasive writing.

  • Close reading and text analysis.

  • Creative and critical thinking.

• Why it works: Law is all about words—statutes, contracts, case law, and arguments. English majors already know how to analyze complex texts and make meaning out of difficult writing. These skills transfer directly to legal studies.

• Things to consider: While English builds strong communication skills, make sure you also develop a foundation in logic, politics, or history to balance your preparation.

4. Philosophy: The Art of Argument

Philosophy may not sound practical at first, but it is one of the strongest undergraduate programs for law school preparation.

• Skills you gain:

  • Logical reasoning and debate.

  • Understanding of ethics and morality.

  • Ability to analyze abstract and complex problems.

• Why it works: The LSAT (Law School Admission Test) often emphasizes logical reasoning, which philosophy students excel at. Courses in ethics and political philosophy also help prepare you for topics in criminal law and constitutional law.

• Things to consider: Philosophy can be abstract, so it works best if you enjoy deep discussions and logic-based challenges.

Read Also: What is the Average LSAT Score and GPA Accepted for Students at Top Texas Law Schools?

5. Business and Economics: Practical and Analytical

Business and Economics are excellent choices if you’re interested in corporate law, tax law, or financial regulation.

• Skills you gain:

  • Understanding of markets and organizations.

  • Analytical and quantitative reasoning.

  • Practical problem-solving in real-world settings.

• Why it works: Law schools value students who can understand financial systems, contracts, and negotiations. A business background can also make you more employable after law school, especially in commercial law firms.

• Things to consider: These programs may focus more on numbers and less on writing, so balance your coursework with writing-intensive electives.

6. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)

Surprisingly, STEM majors are also a strong path to law school, especially if you’re interested in intellectual property (IP) law, technology law, or environmental law.

• Skills you gain:

  • Problem-solving and technical analysis.

  • Attention to detail.

  • Understanding of scientific and technical issues.

• Why it works: Lawyers with technical backgrounds are in high demand, especially in patent law. A degree in computer science, engineering, or biology could set you apart from other applicants.

• Things to consider: While STEM builds analytical skills, you’ll need to make sure you also develop strong writing and argumentation ability, since law school relies heavily on essays and briefs.

What Law Schools Really Look For

When choosing your undergraduate program, it’s important to remember that law schools care about more than your major. Here are the top factors:

1. GPA: A strong academic record shows that you can handle rigorous study.

2. LSAT (or equivalent tests): Standardized test scores remain key in admissions.

3. Writing ability: Law schools want excellent communicators.

4. Letters of recommendation: Professors who know your work well can support your application.

5. Extracurricular activities: Debate clubs, internships, student government, or volunteering show leadership and commitment.

So while asking “Which undergraduate program is best for getting into law school?” is important, remember that how you perform in your chosen program matters even more.

How to Choose the Best Undergraduate Program for You

Here are some practical steps to make your decision easier:

• Play to your strengths: If you love numbers, economics, or engineering might suit you. If you love writing, go for English or History.

• Think about your future goals: Interested in corporate law? Choose a business. Passionate about human rights? Political science or philosophy could be better.

• Check law school admissions data: Many law schools publish statistics showing the majors of admitted students. This can give you ideas.

• Keep your GPA in mind: Pick a major where you can realistically maintain a strong GPA while being challenged.

Other Majors That Can Lead to Law School

Law schools also admit students from majors like:

• Sociology (great for criminal law and social justice).

• Psychology (useful for understanding behavior, negotiations, or jury psychology).

• Communications (good for media law or advocacy).

• International Relations (excellent for international law or human rights law).

This diversity proves that you don’t need to feel boxed into one path.

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Your Program

1. Choosing only for prestige: Pick a program you enjoy, not just one that “sounds good.”

2. Ignoring writing practice: Whatever your major, make sure you take writing-heavy classes.

3. Not exploring electives: Balance your education with subjects that build both logic and communication.

4. Assuming pre-law is required: Many universities offer “pre-law” tracks, but they are not mandatory.

Read Also: 11 Universities that Require the LNAT in the UK

Final Advice: Balance Passion and Practicality

At the end of the day, the best undergraduate program for law school is the one where you will excel and develop transferable skills. A student who thrives in English with a 3.9 GPA has a stronger application than someone who struggles in Political Science with a 2.8 GPA. Passion and performance go hand in hand.

Conclusion

So, which undergraduate program is best for getting into law school? The truth is, there isn’t just one. Law schools admit students from Political Science, History, English, Philosophy, Business, STEM, and many other fields. What matters most is choosing a program that you enjoy, where you can maintain a strong GPA, and where you can develop skills in critical thinking, writing, and research.

If you’re still deciding, focus on building the qualities law schools value—curiosity, persistence, problem-solving, and clear communication. Whether you study politics, literature, engineering, or economics, the path you choose should set you up for success not just in law school, but in your legal career beyond.