Bachelor Of Arts - Honours Arts - Legal Studies (Co-op) 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 integrates various disciplines such as political science, sociology, philosophy, and peace and conflict studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of legal systems. At Waterloo, students benefit from small class sizes led by esteemed researchers, fostering engaging discussions and collaborative learning. The curriculum explores the impact of law on society, the origins of legal systems, and significant issues like crime, punishment, and restorative justice. Graduates will develop essential skills in research, problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication, preparing them for diverse career paths in government, business, and law.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies is designed to provide a robust educational experience over a four-year period. The program is available in both co-op and regular formats, allowing students to choose the path that best suits their career aspirations. Key features of the program structure include:

Program Length: 4 years
Co-op option available, providing relevant paid work experience
Integration of classroom learning with real-world experience through alternating school and work terms
Opportunity to customize the degree with minors in areas such as Human Resource Management, Sociology, and Psychology

Students will engage in a variety of courses, with approximately 40% of their classes focused on Legal Studies. This structure allows for a well-rounded education while also providing flexibility to explore other interests.

Featured Experiences

The Legal Studies program at Waterloo offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and career readiness:

Co-op Program: Students alternate between academic terms and paid co-op work terms, gaining hands-on experience in various sectors.
Small Class Sizes: Encourages personalized attention and fosters a collaborative learning environment.
Diverse Course Offerings: Students can explore topics across multiple disciplines, enriching their understanding of legal systems.
Networking Opportunities: Events hosted by the Legal Studies Society provide insights into various career options and allow students to connect with professionals in the field.
Research Opportunities: Engage with faculty on research projects, enhancing critical thinking and analytical skills.

Career Options

Graduates of the Legal Studies program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Legal Administrative Assistant: Support lawyers by managing files, drafting documents, and organizing schedules.
Law Clerk: Assist lawyers in preparing for trials, conducting legal research, and drafting legal documents.
Business Analyst: Analyze business processes and provide recommendations to improve efficiency and effectiveness.
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 budget constraints.
Policy Analyst: Research and analyze policies to provide recommendations for government or organizational improvements.

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

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

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Last updated on 2025-11-18

Program overview

Academic Requirements

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

Minimum overall GPA of 8.3 is required.
Prerequisite courses include:

English with a minimum grade of 7.5.
Mathematics with a minimum grade of 7.5.

For international students, specifically those from Vietnam, the following documents are required:

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

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is important to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is considered. For any clarification or support regarding the application process, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors who are ready to assist you.

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!