Roger Williams University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational courses in the U.S. legal system with focused coursework in substantive areas of law and applied skills. Typical core modules include Introduction to Law, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Contracts, Torts, Civil Procedure and Legal Research & Writing. Elective options commonly cover Administrative Law, Family Law, Business Law, Employment Law, Alternative Dispute Resolution, Juvenile Justice and Ethics in the Legal Profession.

Students build practical skills through courses that emphasise legal analysis, document drafting, citation, oral advocacy and case preparation. The degree generally requires a capstone seminar or senior research project and includes an experiential component—such as a practicum, internship or supervised field placement—where students gain hands-on experience in courts, law firms, government agencies, non-profits or corporate legal departments.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an accredited secondary-school leaving qualification (or equivalent). Admissions decisions consider high-school transcripts, personal statement and letters of recommendation; standardised test submissions may be optional depending on university policy. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent evidence of prior instruction in English.

Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and may receive credit for prior coursework relevant to legal studies. Mature applicants with relevant work or life experience are considered on an individual basis; specific portfolio or interview requirements are determined by the admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly move into paralegal or legal assistant roles in private law firms, corporate legal departments, government offices and non-profit organisations. Other typical career paths include court administration, compliance and risk management, mediation and alternative dispute resolution, policy analysis, and roles in human resources or insurance. The programme also provides preparation for further academic study, including law school, graduate programmes in public policy or dispute resolution, and professional certification courses for paralegals and allied legal occupations.

Career services at the university support internships, externships and employer networking to help students transition into the workforce or into postgraduate study.

Why study at Roger Williams University

Roger Williams University emphasises small classes, close faculty mentorship and experiential learning—features that benefit students studying legal subjects that require critical reading, writing and practical skills. The university’s location provides access to regional courts, government agencies and a range of legal employers for internships and field placements. Faculty teaching in legal studies typically draw on professional experience and interdisciplinary perspectives, connecting legal concepts with business, public policy and community contexts.

Students also have access to on-campus career support, writing and research centres, and opportunities to engage in community-based projects that enhance employability. The programme is designed for students who want a rigorous understanding of law and the practical skills to work effectively in legal and allied professions without pursuing a professional law degree immediately after graduation.