Preparing Tomorrow’s Legal Leaders
PRE-LAW PROGRAM
The Pre–Law Professional Program at Anderson University is an advising track designed to prepare students for law school and careers in the legal profession. Rather than limiting you to a single major, pre–law at AU is built on a liberal arts foundation, allowing you to pursue fields such as political science, English, history, psychology, business, or economics while receiving focused preparation for law school.
Through rigorous coursework, individualized coaching, and hands-on experience, you will develop the analytical, writing, and reasoning skills essential for success in law school and beyond—while engaging questions of justice through a faith-informed perspective rooted in Anderson’s mission of service to the church and society.
Tomorrow's legal professionals are starting right here.
If you are passionate about justice, advocacy, or public service, Anderson’s pre–law program offers a clear, supported pathway to law school.
What sets Anderson apart
- Individualized Coaching. Small class sizes allow faculty to work closely with you, helping you refine your goals, strengthen your academic profile, and prepare for law school applications.
- Law School Preparation. You will receive one-on-one support in:
- developing your personal statement
- crafting your résumé
- building an LSAT preparation strategy
- navigating the law school application process
WHAT YOU’LL STUDY
Pre–law students at Anderson develop a broad and rigorous academic foundation while tailoring their coursework toward legal study.
Sample Courses
- Introduction to Legal Studies
- Constitutional Law
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Business Law
- Communication Law
Core Skill Developement
- Analytical reasoning
- Argumentation and writing
- Research and evidence evaluation
- Ethical reasoning
- Oral communication
Program Options Major
Pre–law students are encouraged to complement their major with focused areas of study:
- Legal Studies Minor – foundational knowledge of law and legal systems
- Peace & Conflict Transformation (PACT) Minor – an interdisciplinary program focused on peacemaking and conflict transformation across four dimensions:
- Peace with God
- Peace with Self
- Peace with Neighbor
- Peace with the Other
These programs deepen your understanding of justice, ethics, and human conflict.
EXPERIENCES & GROWTH
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
Located in the county seat of Madison County, Anderson provides immediate access to the legal system, with the courthouse located just one mile from campus. Faculty members actively connect students with internship opportunities, so students do not have to search for placements on their own. Students regularly intern with courts and judges, public defenders, prosecutors, private law firms, legislative offices, and nonprofit advocacy organizations. Through these experiences, many students gain valuable hands-on experience within the criminal justice system, developing practical insight into legal work.
COMPETITIVE TEAMS & CONFERENCES
Pre–law students can participate in Anderson’s award-winning Model Diplomacy program, developing skills in negotiation, argumentation, and policy analysis.
Students attend conferences such as:
- American Model United Nations (Chicago)
- Model European Union
- Model Arab League
- Model NATO
All conference costs—including travel, lodging, and registration—are covered by Anderson University.
ELEVATE YOUR LOVE FOR LAW into a career.
Anderson University had a profound impact on Rudy Pyle’s journey to being a judge on the Court of Appeals of Indiana. It’s part of the reason he gives back to AU today.
AFTER GRADUATION
Anderson pre-law graduates pursue a wide range of career and educational pathways, including attending law school to earn a J.D., as well as careers in government and public service, policy analysis and advocacy, intelligence and national security, business and compliance, and education and international service.
Career Pathways
Over the past 15+ years, 100% of Anderson political science graduates who applied to law school have been admitted.
AU graduates have attended law schools such as:
- Duke University
- Georgetown University
- New York University
- Ohio State University
- Indiana University (Bloomington and Indianapolis)
- DePaul University
- University of Iowa
- Valparaiso University
- Regent University
- University of Dayton
AU LAW SCHOLAR PROGRAM
Each year, Anderson nominates one exceptional student or alumnus as an AU Law Scholar to the IU Robert H. McKinney School of Law.
Benefits include:
- Minimum half-tuition scholarship
- Access to exclusive networking opportunities with legal professionals
- Recognition based on academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service
Learn more about the program.
FAQ: PRE-LAW PROGRAM at Anderson University
Is pre-law a major at Anderson University?
No. Pre–law is an advising track, not a major. Students choose a major and receive specialized guidance preparing for law school.
What should I major in if I want to go to law school?
There is no required major. Common choices include political science, English, history, psychology, economics, and business.
How does Anderson help students get into law school?
Students receive individualized coaching, including:
- law school application advising
- personal statement development
- résumé preparation
- LSAT strategy and resource guidance
Support continues even after graduation.
How do internships work for pre-law students?
Faculty connect students directly to internships with courts, attorneys, and public officials. Students do not need to secure internships on their own.
Can I complete my degree in three years?
Yes. Many majors, including political science, can be completed in three years, allowing you to begin law school sooner.
What kinds of courses should pre-law students take?
Students typically take courses in constitutional law, legal studies, ethics, writing, economics, and public policy to prepare for law school.
Does Anderson offer mock trial or moot court?
While Anderson does not offer mock trials or moot courts, students participate in an award-winning Model Diplomacy program, competing in national and international conferences with all costs covered.
Are there minors that complement pre-law study?
Yes. Students often pursue:
-
Legal Studies (minor)
-
Peace & Conflict Transformation (PACT) (minor)
PACT offers a faith-informed, interdisciplinary approach to justice, conflict, and peacemaking.
Where is Anderson University located?
Anderson University is located in Anderson, Indiana, just northeast of Indianapolis. Students enjoy a residential campus community with easy access to internships, careers, and cultural opportunities across central Indiana and the broader Midwest.
The Anderson You
You have unique interests and skills that set you apart. Explore the free My College Career Quiz to receive a personalized list of majors selected just for you. We’ve taken out the guessing work. Come find the Anderson you.