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Main Program Overview Program Outline Career Pathways Why Choose Keiser Testimonials Next Steps FAQs Campuses

Legal Studies: Building a Purposeful Career

Keiser University offers a Bachelor of Arts degree in Legal Studies designed for students seeking comprehensive preparation for careers in law, business, government, and the legal profession. This legal studies program prepares you to work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and the court system.

Master Legal Research and Critical Thinking

Build legal research skills and analytical abilities to evaluate complex legal issues across multiple practice areas.

Learn from Expert Faculty

Study under experienced faculty who bring real world skills from law offices, courtrooms, and corporate legal teams.

Study Your Way: On Campus, Online, or Hybrid

Choose from flexible online, on campus, or hybrid learning formats that fit your schedule and professional goals.

Prepare to Practice Law Support Roles

Gain the skills needed to support attorneys in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies while developing a strong foundation for those considering law school.

At a Glance

120

Credit Hours

40

Courses

40

Months*

4

Week Terms

  • Up to 12 credits of transfer credit*
  • Opens doors to careers in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and the court system.
  • Available On-Campus, Online, and Hybrid
  • Financial aid for those who qualify**

* Time to degree completion and the number of transfer credits are estimates, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
** Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all your financial aid and funding options.

Legal Studies Program Overview

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts degree in Legal Studies trains students for careers in law and law related fields, including business, government, and criminal justice. The program also prepares students to pursue a law degree. Students learn the necessary information and skills for successful integration into a law office atmosphere. They explore how law impacts most professional fields.
 
The Bachelor of Arts degree in Legal Studies with a Law Office Management concentration trains students for both traditional paralegal positions and law office manager positions. As law office managers, graduates help oversee day to day operations and management of a law firm. Students take the majority of their courses from the Legal Studies curriculum and other courses from the Business and Accounting departments, covering topics such as accounting principles and employee relations.

Mission Statement

Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts degree program in Legal Studies prepares program graduates to assist attorneys practicing in a broad array of legal fields. Through our community partnerships, graduates ethically and professionally make meaningful contributions to the legal field as professional paralegals or may pursue law school admission.

Program Goals

The program aims to prepare students with the following:

  1. Educational Excellence: Deliver an advanced curriculum that integrates the practical application of legal principles required for entry-level positions within the legal profession, career advancement, or law school admission
  2. Analytical /Critical Thinking Skills: Advance critical thinking skills necessary for entry-level positions within the legal profession, career advancement, or law school admission.
  3. Professional Competence: Foster a learning environment that advances professionalism, ethical behavior, and effective communication for entry-level positions within the legal profession, career advancement, or law school admission.
  4. Career Readiness: Prepare graduates for entry-level positions within the legal profession or career advancement by offering exposure to advanced industry-standard practices and technologies.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites for Major Courses

  • Legal Research and Writing I is a prerequisite for Legal Research and Writing II
  • Civil Litigation is a prerequisite for Advanced Civil Litigation
  • Torts is a prerequisite for Advanced Torts
  • Legal Research and Writing I, Contracts and Civil Litigation are prerequisites for Legal Drafting (E)

Program Highlights

Small class sizes allow for personalized attention from experienced faculty. Students gain hands-on experience through real world legal research projects and case studies. The program offers elective courses in specialized areas like immigration law, intellectual property, and business law. Internship opportunities provide practical experience at law firms and legal organizations at participating ground campuses. The Law Office Management concentration offers a unique path combining legal knowledge with business administration skills. The program is offered on-campus, online, and hybrid format.

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Accreditation Status

Keiser University holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. While the legal studies program does not require programmatic accreditation, the curriculum follows best practices in legal education and prepares students for success in legal careers and graduate programs.

Program Outline

Available On-Campus, Online, and Hybrid

Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies Degree Courses

The Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies at Keiser University provides a comprehensive legal education for professionals ready to work in law and law related fields. Focused on legal research, legal writing, substantive law, and legal ethics, the program equips students to navigate complex legal environments. Through coursework in civil litigation, criminal procedure, constitutional law, and business organizations, students develop skills to support legal professionals, advance litigation case files, and contribute to law office operations with confidence and competence.
 
To receive a Bachelor of Arts degree in Legal Studies, students must complete 120 credit hours as follows:

Lower Division Courses

Lower Division Legal Studies Major Courses (24.0 credit hours)
Legal Research & Writing I 3.0 credit hours
Criminal Law 3.0 credit hours
Contracts 3.0 credit hours
Wills, Trusts & Estates 3.0 credit hours
Torts 3.0 credit hours
Real Property 3.0 credit hours
Family Law 3.0 credit hours
General Education Courses (36.0 credit hours)
Behavioral/Social Science (6.0 credit hours)
AMH1010 – American History Pre 1876 3.0 credit hours
AMH1020 – American History Since 1876 3.0 credit hours
POS1041 – Political Science (required) 3.0 credit hours
PSY1012 – Introduction to Psychology * 3.0 credit hours
SYG1000 – Sociology * 3.0 credit hours
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
SPC1017 – Speech Communications 3.0 credit hours
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
CGS1000C – Introduction to Computers 3.0 credit hours
Economics (3.0 credit hours)
ECO1023 – Microeconomics 3.0 credit hours
ECO2013 – Macroeconomics 3.0 credit hours
English (6.0 credit hours)
ENC1101 – English Composition I * 3.0 credit hours
ENC2102 – English Composition II * 3.0 credit hours
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
AML1000 – American Literature * 3.0 credit hours
CWL1000 – Contemporary World Literature * 3.0 credit hours
CENL1000 – English Literature * 3.0 credit hours
Mathematics (6.0 credit hours)
MAC2105 – College Algebra 3.0 credit hours
MGF2106 – College Mathematics 3.0 credit hours
MGF2107 – Applications of Mathematics 3.0 credit hours
STA2023 – Statistics 3.0 credit hours
Natural Science (6.0 credit hours)
BSC1005 – General Biology 3.0 credit hours
BSC1005L – General Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hours
BSC1006 – Advanced Biology 3.0 credit hours
BSC1006L – Advanced Biology Laboratory 1.0 credit hours
BSC1050 – Environmental Science 3.0 credit hours

* Must be completed with a grade of “C” or higher for Gordon Rule credit.

Upper Division Courses

Upper Division Legal Studies Major Courses (48.0 credit hours)
Legal Research & Writing II 3.0 credit hours
Legal Drafting (E) 3.0 credit hours
Criminal Procedure 3.0 credit hours
Business Organizations 3.0 credit hours
Income Tax ** (E) 3.0 credit hours
Ethics 3.0 credit hours
Worker’s Compensation ** (E) 3.0 credit hours
Legal Interviewing & Investigation 3.0 credit hours
Alternative Dispute Resolution (E) 3.0 credit hours
Evidence ** 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Civil Litigation ** 3.0 credit hours
Advanced Torts ** 3.0 credit hours
Law Office Technology 3.0 credit hours
Immigration Law (E) 3.0 credit hours
Constitutional Law 3.0 credit hours
Legal Studies Capstone Project 3.0 credit hours
Legal Studies Internship I * (E) 3.0 credit hours
Legal Studies Internship II * (E) 3.0 credit hours

* Internship electives are available only at participating ground campuses.
** Students enrolled in the Law Office Management Concentration will take the following five (5) courses in lieu of Income Tax, Workers’ Compensation, Evidence, Advanced Civil Litigation, and Advanced Torts.

For Students enrolled in the Law Office Management Concentration
Accounting for Non-Financial Majors 3.0 credit hours
Introduction to Management and Organizational Behavior 3.0 credit hours
Leadership 3.0 credit hours
Recruitment, Selection and Staffing 3.0 credit hours
Management Law and Employee Relations 3.0 credit hours
Upper Division General Education Courses (12.0 credit hours)
Management Information Systems 3.0 credit hours
Workforce Diversity 3.0 credit hours
Professional Writing 3.0 credit hours
Critical Thinking 3.0 credit hours

Note: All lower division major and general education courses must be successfully completed before upper division courses are undertaken. Courses with an (E) are electives.

If you’re someone who cares about…

Justice, wants to help others navigate legal challenges, and seeks a career that makes a real difference,

a degree in legal studies might be your path.

Legal studies students bring analytical skills, attention to detail, and strong communication abilities. They possess the drive to research legal authority, draft legal documents, and support attorneys in making justice accessible.

Whether you’re drawn to the court system, law firms, or corporate legal teams, this bachelor’s degree in legal studies gives you the tools to turn your interest in law into meaningful career opportunities.

legal-studies-ba-degree-banner
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Top 100 Hispanic-Serving Institutions
(2024, Hispanic Outlook on Education Magazine)

U.S. News & World Report

Top 25 university in the country in providing Social Mobility, including being ranked #1 in 2023
(U.S. News & World Report)

The Chronicle of Higher Education

#2 Best 4-year graduation rates, private, nonprofit, nonresidential
(2023, The Chronicle of Higher Ed.)

What Jobs Can You Get with a Bachelor Degree in Legal Studies?

Graduates of Keiser University’s legal studies degree program stand ready to pursue diverse career opportunities within the legal field. This bachelor’s degree prepares students for roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and the judicial system. The legal studies program supports aspiring legal professionals by building their ability to conduct legal research, analyze legal issues, prepare legal documents, and apply legal principles across multiple practice areas.

Career Pathways in Legal Studies

  • Legal assistant Paralegal
  • Law office administrator
  • Compliance officer
  • Contract administrator
  • Legal secretary
  • Court clerk
  • Corporate legal coordinator
  • Government legal support specialist
  • Law firm operations manager
  • Legal research specialist
  • Real estate legal assistant
  • Litigation support specialist
  • Immigration legal assistant
  • Law school preparation
legal-studies-ba-degree-

Gain Job Ready Skills for a Legal Studies Career

  • Legal research using primary and secondary sources
  • Legal writing and document preparation
  • Critical thinking and legal reasoning
  • Contract law analysis and interpretation
  • Civil litigation procedures and case management
  • Criminal law and criminal justice fundamentals
  • Legal ethics and professional responsibility
  • Law office technology and case management systems
  • Client interviewing and legal investigation
  • Alternative dispute resolution techniques
  • Business law and organizational structures
  • Constitutional law and legal principles
  • Legal document drafting and review

Keiser University offers career focused degree programs designed to support working professionals, traditional students, and career changers. With on campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

See What Sets Keiser Apart

Brandon Alexander Presley, a Legal Studies student at the Keiser University Tampa campus, shares his journey from military service to pursuing a career in law. With a long-standing interest in law and a desire to make a difference, he initially struggled to find direction after leaving the military. After sitting in on a law class at Keiser University, he discovered his passion and switched his major from accounting to legal studies—a decision he has not regretted. As a veteran, Brandon found the transition back to a structured academic routine challenging at first, but he credits the Student Veterans Association for providing a strong sense of community and support. He highlights the organization’s welcoming environment and the camaraderie it fosters among fellow veterans. Additionally, he values Keiser’s small class sizes, which offer a more personalized learning experience. Overall, Brandon describes the campus as a place that has become like family to him.

Students Testimonials

At Keiser University we are here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier.   Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

How to Apply

  1. Submit your online application.
  2. Speak with an admissions advisor.
  3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits.
  4. Enroll and choose your start date.

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Speak to Your Advisor: 1-888-534-7379

Keiser University’s legal studies bachelor degree program stands designed for students ready to launch careers in the legal profession through undergraduate study. With flexible online and on campus options, our program aligns with your career goals in law firms, corporate legal teams, or government agencies. Whether you’re preparing for law school, seeking paralegal certification, or pursuing law office management, Keiser provides the legal education and practical skills needed to make an impact in the legal field.

Apply Now

Accredited University

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), ensuring your education meets rigorous academic standards.

Flexible Learning Options

Study online or on-campus at Florida locations. Choose one class at a time, on-campus, online, or hybrid. Evening and weekend options are available for working adults at select campuses.

Financial Services

We’re here to help guide you through the financial aid process and provide assistance. Grants, scholarships, and financial aid available for students who qualify.

Top Questions About Earning a Bachelor Degree in Legal Studies

Can I get a legal studies degree online at Keiser University?

Yes. Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies is offered online, with the option to study on-campus or in a hybrid format if preferred. Students receive the same quality instruction, support, and resources across all delivery methods.

What's the difference between legal studies and paralegal studies?

Legal studies programs typically provide broader legal education covering multiple areas of law, business applications, and preparation for law school. Paralegal studies programs focus specifically on training paralegals to work directly under attorney supervision. Keiser’s legal studies program offers both traditional legal studies and a Law Office Management concentration for students interested in paralegal and administrative roles.

Do I need to go to law school after completing this bachelor's degree in legal studies?

No. Many legal studies graduates work successfully in legal assistant, paralegal, compliance officer, and law office management positions without attending law school. The degree in legal studies does provide strong preparation for those who choose to pursue graduate programs in law or related fields.

What legal careers can I pursue with a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies?

Graduates pursue careers as legal assistants, paralegals, compliance officers, contract administrators, legal secretaries, court clerks, and law office managers. The degree also prepares students for roles in corporate legal departments, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.

What's the difference between the traditional program and the Law Office Management concentration?

The traditional Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies focuses on legal coursework and allows for elective courses across disciplines. The Law Office Management concentration substitutes business courses for select legal courses, it combines legal studies with business courses to prepare you to manage the day-to-day operations of a law firm, training you for paralegal and law office manager positions.

Is this program approved by the American Bar Association?

The American Bar Association does not approve undergraduate legal studies programs. Keiser’s Legal Studies program provides comprehensive legal education that prepares students for legal careers. Graduates can pursue certification from the American Bar Association separately if desired for their future career goals.

How long does it take to complete the bachelor degree in legal studies?

The program typically takes approximately 40 months to complete for full-time students. Time to degree completion stands as an estimate, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case by case factors.

What courses are required in the legal studies program?

Lower division courses include Legal Research & Writing I, Criminal Law, Contracts, Wills Trusts & Estates, Civil Litigation, Torts, Real Property, and Family Law. Upper division courses cover Legal Research & Writing II, Legal Drafting, Criminal Procedure, Business Organizations, Ethics, Evidence, Advanced Civil Litigation, Constitutional Law, and more. Students also complete general education requirements in areas like critical thinking and professional writing.

Can I complete an internship as part of my legal studies degree?

Yes. Legal Studies Internship I and Legal Studies Internship II stand available as elective courses at participating ground campuses. These internships provide practical experience in law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments.

How much does it cost to earn this degree?

Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser University offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more information about the degree cost, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.

Will this degree help me get into law school?

Yes. The Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies provides excellent preparation for law school by building legal research skills, legal writing abilities, and understanding of legal principles and legal theory.

This Program is Available at the Following Campuses

Clearwater

16120 U.S. Highway 19 N., Clearwater, Florida 33764

(727) 576-6500

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Clearwater
Daytona Beach

1800 Business Park Boulevard Daytona Beach, Florida 32114

(386) 274-5060

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Daytona Beach
Flagship

2600 North Military Trail, West Palm Beach, FL 33409

(561) 478-5500

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Flagship
Fort Lauderdale

1500 Northwest 49th Street Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309

(800) 749-4456

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Fort Lauderdale
Fort Myers

9100 Forum Corporate Parkway Fort Myers, FL 33905

(239) 277-1336

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Fort Myers
Jacksonville

6430 Southpoint Pkwy Jacksonville, Florida 32216

(904) 296-3440

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Jacksonville
Lakeland

2400 Interstate Drive Lakeland, Florida 33805

(863) 682-6020

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Lakeland
Melbourne

900 South Babcock Street Melbourne, Florida 32901

(877) 636-3618

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Melbourne
Miami

2101 NW 117th Ave. Miami, Florida 33172

(305) 596-2226

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Miami
Naples

3909 Tamiami Trail East, Naples, Florida 34112

(239) 513-1135

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Naples
New Port Richey

6300 US-19 North, New Port Richey, Florida 34652

(727) 484-3110

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New Port Richey
Ocala

1601 NE 25th Avenue, Suite 602, Ocala, FL 34470

(352) 703-0224

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Ocala
Online Education

1900 W. Commercial Blvd, Suite 100 Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33309

(888) 453-4737

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Online Education
Orlando

5600 Lake Underhill Road Orlando, Florida 32807

(407) 273-5800

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Orlando
Pembroke Pines

1640 SW 145th Avenue Pembroke Pines, Florida 33027

(954) 431-4300

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Pembroke Pines
Port St. Lucie

9400 SW Discovery Way, Port Saint Lucie, FL 34987

(772) 398-9990

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Port St. Lucie
San Marcos, Carazo, Nicaragua

Gasolinera UNO 2c. al Sur San Marcos, Carazo, Nicaragua

(505) 2535-2312

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San Marcos, Carazo, Nicaragua
Sarasota

6151 Lake Osprey Drive Sarasota, Florida 34240

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Sarasota
Tallahassee

1700 Halstead Boulevard, Building 2 Tallahassee, Florida 32309

(850) 906-9494

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Tallahassee
Tampa

5002 West Waters Avenue Tampa, Florida 33634

(813) 885-4900

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Tampa
West Palm Beach

2085 Vista Parkway West Palm Beach, Florida 33411

(561) 471-6000

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West Palm Beach

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