Bachelor of Arts - Law and society (UQ)

Program overview

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Law and Society at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Brantford campus offers students a unique opportunity to explore the intricate relationship between law and society. This program delves into how legal systems interact with social issues such as power, colonialism, race, culture, and economics. Students will critically analyze the role of laws in addressing inequality and discrimination while studying the impact of social movements on legal change. The program is designed to equip students with essential research, critical thinking, and communication skills, preparing them for diverse careers in law, public policy, government, advocacy, social services, and further studies.

Program structure

The Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society is structured to provide a comprehensive educational experience over a four-year duration. Students can choose to study either full-time or part-time, with the program starting in September (fall term), January (winter term), or May (spring term). Key features of the program structure include:

• Pathway to Law School: A unique six-year pathway program allows students to pair their BA with a Law (LLB) degree from the University of Sussex.
• Practice-Based Curriculum: The program combines theoretical approaches with practical frameworks, ensuring students develop essential skills for success beyond the classroom.
• Politics and Public Policy Specialization: Students can engage critically with political processes and systems that influence law and public policy.

Additionally, students have opportunities to customize their degree through directed studies, internships, and thesis courses, enhancing their academic experience and preparing them for future endeavors.

Featured Experiences

The Law and Society program at Laurier offers a variety of unique experiences that allow students to apply their learning in real-world contexts. Some of the featured experiences include:

• Research Assistantship: Students can earn positions assisting professors, applying their learning in practical settings.
• Research Apprenticeship Program: This program allows students to explore topics of interest through research and directed studies.
• Academic, Creative and Engaged Research Showcase (ACERS): Students can share their coursework and research with a broader audience.
• Student Memberships: Opportunities to join organizations such as the Laurier Law Council and Canadian Criminal Justice Association.
• Student Clubs: Engage with clubs like the Law & Society Students' Association and Laurier Moot Court to build leadership skills.

These experiences not only enrich the academic journey but also foster personal and professional growth.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society program have a wide array of career options available to them in Canada. Here are some potential job roles along with brief descriptions:

• Civil Servant: Work within government agencies to implement policies and serve the public.
• Community Program Developer: Design and manage programs that address community needs and enhance social welfare.
• Human Rights Advocate: Promote and protect human rights through advocacy, education, and policy work.
• Law Clerk: Assist lawyers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, and preparing for trials.
• Public Policy Advisor: Analyze and develop policies that impact the public sector and advise government officials.

Additional roles may include positions such as immigration and settlement worker, legal aid worker, and paralegal. Graduates are well-prepared for various paths, including further education in law or related fields.

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