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Pre-Law

Forge Your Path to Legal Excellence at Dickinson

Dickinson’s pre-law program offers a dynamic and comprehensive preparation for students aspiring to pursue a career in law. Our program combines the strength of a liberal arts education with targeted pre-law guidance, setting you on the path to success in law school and beyond.

Dickinson’s president, John E. Jones III, an alumnus of Dickinson and a parent of another, brings an extraordinary wealth of legal expertise to the college. A former highly respected federal judge, he has become a go-to legal commentator, providing analysis on such major media outlets as CNN, BBC and PBS NewsHour. Recognized as one of Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” in 2006, he has garnered national acclaim for his insights on high-profile legal matters that regularly dominate the headlines. President Jones not only mentors Dickinson’s pre-law students with a wealth of experience but also offers unparalleled real-world perspectives, preparing them for success in the legal field.

Program Highlights

  • Flexible major selection
  • Personalized pre-law advising
  • Comprehensive course recommendations
  • Unique 3+3 joint baccalaureate and law degree program

Preparing for a Dynamic Legal Career

A law degree opens doors to diverse and exciting career path, and Dickinson's pre-law program prepares you for:

  • Corporate law
  • Environmental law
  • Human rights law
  • Intellectual property law
  • Public policy and government
  • Criminal justice reform
  • International law

The Dickinson Advantage: Liberal Arts Foundation for Legal Success

At Dickinson, we believe that the best preparation for a legal career is a well-rounded liberal arts education. Our approach cultivates:

  • Critical thinking: Analyze complex issues from multiple perspectives
  • Effective communication: Develop strong writing and oral advocacy skills
  • Ethical reasoning: Explore moral and philosophical foundations of law
  • Research proficiency: Master the art of thorough investigation and analysis
  • Interdisciplinary understanding: Gain insights from various fields of study
Exclusive Opportunity: 3+3 Joint Baccalaureate & Law Degree Program

Dickinson offers a unique 3+3 program in partnership with Penn State Dickinson Law, also located in Carlisle. The program allows students to complete both their bachelor's and law degrees in just six years. This accelerated path includes:

  • 3 years at Dickinson
  • 3 years at Penn State Dickinson Law
  • Earn two degrees: B.A./B.S. from Dickinson and J.D. from Penn State Dickinson Law
Curriculum Overview

Our pre-law curriculum provides the perfect foundation for honing skills essential for legal studies, beginning with core recommended courses:

  • Economics: ECON 100 (Contemporary Economics) or ECON 111 (Introduction to Microeconomics)
  • History: HIST 117, 118 (American History)
  • Philosophy: PHIL 102 (Moral Problems), PHIL 103 (Logic)
  • Political Science: POSC 120 (American Government), POSC 220, 221 (Constitutional Law I, II)
  • Law & Policy: LAWP 255 (Philosophy of Law), LAWP 248 (The Judiciary)

Additional Recommendations

  • Writing-intensive courses across various departments
  • Courses in international business, psychology, philosophy and foreign languages

Why Choose Dickinson's Pre-Law Program?

  • Interdisciplinary approach: Gain a broad perspective crucial for tackling complex legal issues
  • Hands-on experience: Participate in internships, moot court competitions, and legal clinics
  • Alumni network: Connect with successful Dickinson graduates in various legal fields
  • Personalized guidance: Receive one-on-one advising from our dedicated pre-law advisor
  • LSAT preparation: Access resources and support for law school admission tests

Take the Next Step

Ready to embark on your journey to a rewarding legal career? Contact our pre-law advisor, Erik Sutherland, to learn more about how Dickinson can prepare you for success in law school and beyond.


Pre-Law News

All News Department News
Interns Go Behind the Scenes in Government, Law, Policy

Interns Go Behind the Scenes in Government, Law, Policy

“This experience reaffirmed my passion for advocacy.” Students saw the wheels of justice, governance and policy in motion through hands-on internships that built skills, connections and confidence.

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Paving a Personalized Path

Paving a Personalized Path

After graduating early and serving a year with AmeriCorps, Nicole Bustard ’24 plans to pursue a career in public-interest law.

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Student Snapshot: Milo Newman-Lombardo ’25

Student Snapshot: Milo Newman-Lombardo ’25

Meet Milo Newman-Lombardo '25 (philosophy), who plans a law career focusing on environmental activism and human rights.

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Young Dickinson Lawyer Blazes Path to Success

Young Dickinson Lawyer Blazes Path to Success

“Because of my rough childhood, I wanted help kids and families.” Meet lawyer/community leader Aaron Swift ’07 and learn about his inspiring journey to success.

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Student Snapshot: Joshua Whittemore

Student Snapshot: Joshua Whittemore '25

Joshua Whittemore '25 dreamed of being a lawyer since he was 8. Now, he's laying a foundation as a law & policy and economics double major, interning in the Harrisburg attorney general's office.

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Published and Primed for Success

Published and Primed for Success

As an undergrad, Claire Simpson '22 cowrote a book chapter. A few months after graduation, her chapter has been published in a book.

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