Bachelor Of Arts - Honours Arts - Legal Studies at University of Waterloo - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

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Program overview

Earn a Legal Studies degree while utilizing paid co-op terms to gain practical experience. This program allows you to explore various disciplines such as political science, sociology, philosophy, and peace and conflict studies, all aimed at understanding legal systems. At Waterloo, you will benefit from small class sizes led by esteemed researchers, fostering an environment rich in discussion and engagement. The curriculum is designed to help you grasp the impact of law on society, the origins of legal systems, and significant issues like crime, punishment, and restorative justice. Graduates will emerge with essential skills in research, problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication, alongside a comprehensive understanding of law and legal frameworks.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts - Legal Studies program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a period of four years. Students can choose to study through either the Honours Arts or Honours Arts and Business pathways. The program includes:

Co-op Option: Students can opt for a co-op program, allowing them to gain relevant work experience while studying.
Flexible Course Selection: After the first year, students will take approximately 40% of their classes in Legal Studies, with the remaining courses being electives from a wide range of subjects.
Minors Available: Students have the option to add minors to their degree, with popular choices including Human Resource Management, Sociology, and Psychology.

Throughout the program, students will alternate between academic terms and co-op work terms, integrating classroom learning with real-world experience. This structure not only enhances learning but also prepares students for diverse career paths.

Featured Experiences

The Legal Studies program at Waterloo offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance the educational journey:

Co-op Program: Students can participate in paid co-op terms, gaining hands-on experience in law firms, government offices, and various businesses.
Small Class Sizes: The program emphasizes small class environments, promoting active participation and personalized learning.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Students study law from multiple perspectives, including political science, sociology, and philosophy, providing a well-rounded understanding of legal systems.
Networking Opportunities: Events hosted by the Legal Studies Society allow students to connect with professionals and explore various career options.

Career Options

Graduates of the Legal Studies program can pursue a wide range of career opportunities in Canada, including:

Legal Administrative Assistant: Support legal professionals by managing documents, scheduling appointments, and conducting research.
Law Clerk: Assist lawyers by preparing legal documents, conducting research, and managing case files.
Business Analyst: Analyze business processes and provide insights to improve efficiency and effectiveness within organizations.
Human Resource Specialist: Manage recruitment, employee relations, and compliance with labor laws within organizations.
Project Manager: Oversee projects from inception to completion, ensuring they meet deadlines and stay within budget.

These roles highlight the versatility of a Legal Studies degree, equipping graduates with the skills needed to thrive in various sectors, including law, business, and government.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit University of Waterloo official website

Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

For the Bachelor of Arts - Honours Arts - Legal Studies program at the University of Waterloo, the following Academic Requirements apply:

Minimum GPA: Not specified.
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Prerequisite courses:
- English and Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5 in each.
Overall average of 8.3 is required.

For international students, particularly those from Vietnam, the following general requirements must be met:

Bàng Tốt Nghiệp Phố Thông Trung Học (Secondary School Graduation Certificate).

It is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner. For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

English Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at the University of Waterloo. Success in our programs requires a high level of English language proficiency.

You need to provide an English language test score if:

your four most recent years of full-time education have NOT been in an English-language school system AND
your first language is NOT English.

Required English Language Scores

Tests that do not appear on this chart are not accepted for admission consideration.

Official test scores must be sent by the testing agency directly to Waterloo's Office of the Registrar. Emails, faxes, and student copies of test scores are not accepted for admission.

Test	Minimum Score	How to Send Test Results
Internet-based TOEFL (iBT), including Home Edition and Paper Edition	90 overall, 25 writing, 25 speaking	Waterloo's institution code is 0996 and our department code is 00. We do not accept electronic TOEFL scores for undergraduate admissions.
IELTS Academic	6.5 overall, 6.5 writing, 6.5 speaking, 6.0 reading, 6.0 listening	We accept the electronic Test Report Form (TRF). Waterloo's e-transfer institution name is University of Waterloo – Undergraduate OR University of Waterloo Admissions.
CAEL or CAEL online	70 overall, 60 per band, 70 writing, 70 speaking	You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo as a recipient institution.
PTE Academic	63 overall, 65 writing, 65 speaking	Send your Score Report Code or Registration ID to myapplication@uwaterloo.ca.
Cambridge English test (C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency)	180 overall, 176 writing, 176 reading, 176 speaking, 176 listening	Go to the Candidate Results Online portal, input your ID and secret number then click on "Send my result."
Duolingo English test	The minimum requirement for tests completed before July 1, 2024 is an overall score of 120, with minimum Literacy and Production scores of 110. Tests completed after July 1, 2024 require an overall of 120 with Literacy and Production scores of 125 for direct entry to a Waterloo program.	Results will not be accepted without subscores. You must log in to your affiliated account and select University of Waterloo – Undergraduate as a recipient institution.
EFAS - English for Academic Success	75% overall in 400 levels, 75% in each of academic, oral, and writing	Your scores will be sent to us automatically by the English Language Institute.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!