University of Mississippi

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad grounding in law and legal institutions, emphasising analytical reasoning, written and oral communication, and practical skills used in legal and regulatory environments. Core topics typically include constitutional law, criminal law, contracts, civil procedure, legal research and writing, evidence, and ethics. Students also study complementary subjects such as public policy, administrative law, negotiation, and business law.

The degree is normally structured around a combination of required core modules, disciplinary electives, and general education requirements. Many students complete a capstone seminar or practicum that integrates doctrinal study with applied projects, and there are opportunities for internships, field placements, or supervised research with local courts, government offices, non-profits, and law firms.

• Typical core modules: Legal Research and Writing; Constitutional Law; Criminal Law; Contracts; Civil Procedure; Legal Ethics.
• Common electives: Family Law; Administrative Law; Business and Commercial Law; Evidence; Alternative Dispute Resolution; Law and Society; Compliance and Regulation.
• Experiential components: Internship/Field Placement, Capstone Seminar, Moot Court or simulated client projects where available.

Entry requirements

Admission to the Bachelor's in Non-Professional Legal Studies requires a completed secondary education credential equivalent to a US high school diploma. Applicants are typically evaluated on academic record (GPA), the strength of written materials, and overall fit with the programme.

Common requirements include:

• Secondary school transcript with a competitive GPA; specific departmental minimums may apply.
• Satisfactory completion of college-preparatory coursework, particularly in English and social sciences.
• A personal statement or essay outlining academic interests and career goals.
• Letters of recommendation may be requested, especially for transfer or competitive applicants.
• Transfer applicants should submit college transcripts and meet the University's transfer credit policies.

The University of Mississippi considers applications holistically; additional materials such as standardised test scores may be optional or considered depending on the broader admissions policy. Prospective students should consult the University's admissions office or departmental advisors for tailored guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme move into a range of roles across legal services, public sector, business and non-profit organisations. While this degree does not qualify holders to practise law as attorneys, it prepares students for positions that require legal knowledge and analytical skills.

• Common job roles: paralegal or legal assistant, court clerk, compliance analyst, claims specialist, policy analyst, regulatory affairs coordinator, mediation or dispute resolution support staff.
• Public sector and non-profit: roles in local and state government, community advocacy organisations, and legislative offices.
• Business and commercial: positions in human resources, contract administration, risk management and corporate compliance.
• Further study: many graduates use the degree as a foundation for professional or graduate study, including paralegal certification programmes, master's degrees in public policy or business, or law school.

The University’s career services and departmental advisers help students identify internships and entry-level openings and support applications to graduate and professional programmes.

Why study at University of Mississippi

The University of Mississippi offers a focused undergraduate environment with access to faculty who combine academic scholarship and practical experience in legal studies. Students benefit from small-class discussion, opportunities for mentorship, and curricular options that emphasise applied learning.

The university’s location provides connections to state and local courts, government offices and regional law firms, facilitating internships and practical placements. Additional campus resources include career services, writing and research support, student legal societies, and extracurricular programmes such as moot court or negotiation clinics where available.

Overall, the programme is well-suited to students who want a rigorous, broadly applicable legal education that develops transferable skills in research, analysis and communication while keeping options open for both immediate employment and further study.