Point Park University

What you'll study

This programme combines core legal doctrine with practical skills training and experiential learning. You will study the basic substantive areas of law—such as contracts, torts, criminal law and constitutional law—while developing legal research and writing, case analysis and advocacy skills. Coursework typically covers:

• Foundations of Law – introduction to legal systems, sources of law and legal reasoning.
• Substantive Law – modules in contracts, torts, criminal law, property and constitutional law.
• Procedural and Practice Courses – civil procedure, evidence, and an introduction to litigation practice.
• Legal Research & Writing – legal citation, briefing cases, statutory interpretation and drafting memos and client letters.
• Business and Regulatory Law – introductory business law, employment law and administrative/regulatory frameworks.
• Ethics and Professional Responsibility – ethical obligations for legal professionals and professional conduct.
• Skills and Experiential Learning – negotiation, alternative dispute resolution, client interviewing and oral advocacy; many students complete an internship, practicum or capstone project with a local law office, court or government agency.

Courses are delivered through lectures, small seminars, simulations and supervised field placements to ensure both conceptual understanding and practical competence.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants typically hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Admissions will consider academic preparation, letters of recommendation and a personal statement that explains interest in legal studies. Recommended background includes strong performance in writing and social studies courses. Transfer applicants from community colleges or other universities are welcome; transfer credit is assessed on an individual basis.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent qualifications. Applicants with relevant work experience in legal or public-service settings are encouraged to highlight this in their application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Non-Professional Legal Studies programme move into a range of law-related and allied careers. Common pathways include:

• Paralegal or legal assistant roles in law firms, corporate legal departments and public-interest organisations.
• Court administration and clerk positions with local, state or federal courts.
• Compliance support, regulatory affairs and contract administration in business and non-profit sectors.
• Positions in government agencies, juvenile and social services, and victim advocacy.
• Further study: many graduates use the degree as preparation for law school, criminal justice or public administration programmes.

The programme’s emphasis on internships and applied skills helps students build professional networks in the Pittsburgh legal community and gain the practical experience employers seek.

Why study at Point Park University

Point Park’s urban location in downtown Pittsburgh places students close to courts, law firms, government offices and non-profit organisations, creating accessible internship and practicum opportunities. Class sizes at Point Park are typically small, allowing close faculty mentoring; many instructors bring practical legal experience to the classroom. The university’s career services support students with résumé development, interview preparation and employer connections specific to the region. Together, these features make the programme well suited to students who want hands-on preparation for legal-support roles or a pathway into graduate legal education.