Bachelor's in Legal Studies

Begin on your path to a career in law

Bachelor of Science - Legal Studies (120 credits)

Are you thinking about pursuing jobs in legal studies or getting your law degree? The bachelor of science in legal studies at Davenport University can put you on the path to a school of law, help you develop the skills you need for a paralegal program or prepare you for work in a law office, government agency or other law-related setting.

Approved by the American Bar Association and accredited by International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE), Davenport’s legal studies program combines theory and practical application so you’re prepared for wherever your future takes you. In fact, Davenport's hands-on learning approach is embedded at every level of the bachelor of legal studies program so you master the effective communication, critical thinking and other skills you need for a variety of jobs in legal studies.

Davenport understands students' schedules are hectic. To provide further flexibility within the legal studies program, we are transitioning to a fully online experience by offering 100% of courses in livestream format through our Global Campus. This allows you to stream and participate in classes from anywhere life takes you! The BS in legal studies also qualifies for our Employment Guarantee.

Experience the real world with the bachelor of legal studies

Through study abroad programs, internships and other hands-on opportunities provided in the classroom, you'll gain the real-world skills and experience that will help you stand out in your law school applications — and for jobs in legal studies. Another way to gain experience: participate in the Davenport Estate Planning Services (DEPS) clinic, which provides free estate planning for underserved populations.

Explore classes for Davenport's degree in legal studies

Through the bachelor of legal studies program, you'll take courses in business and legal ethics, litigation procedure, law office and case management technology and substantive practice areas of law. These courses and others will help you stand out from the competition for jobs in legal studies or get into a school of law.

See Full Course List

Foundations of Excellence		39 Credits
ACES100 or OPEN	Achieving Career and Education Success or (if exempt) Open Elective ACES100 - This course presents the skills needed for university success and initiates students to career planning and development. Students evaluate their abilities and interests in order to develop career goals and align these goals with an appropriate course of study. Through a career investigation project, students are introduced to research techniques. Students also improve on academic skills necessary to successfully complete university work, such as critical thinking, study techniques, and test taking strategies. In addition, students are introduced to important dynamics of interpersonal communication and conflict resolution. The course also orients students to the University, to the Davenport University Excellence System, and to other elements of the Davenport curriculum. (This course is required for all new business and technology students, except those transferring with 30 or more semester credits.) Open Elective - Any course at the 100 level or above that is not already required in program.	3
COMM120	Presentation Techniques This course introduces and applies the theories and principles of effective communication. Students learn to organize and present clear, logical messages to specific audiences. They develop confidence in public speaking and increase their ability to inform and persuade listeners. They also implement critical thinking and listening skills. Finally, students exhibit the skills and tools necessary to construct, organize, and deliver effective speeches. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
DATA275	Introduction to Data Analytics The basics of data analytics are introduced including descriptive, predictive and prescriptive statistics, regression analysis, and data visualization. The instructional approach is an application-based introduction to data analytics practices such as data cleaning, data organization for analysis, and exploratory data analysis. A key component of instruction is an emphasis on hands-on practice with data analysis projects and presentation of results to multiple audiences. Techniques examined emphasize applicability in multiple organizational sectors including business, healthcare, and technology. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): STAT220	3
ECON200	Microeconomics This course introduces students to economics. Students learn the basics of supply and demand; the market economy; elasticity; the foundation of consumer demand; the theory of the business firm and costs of production; the market structures of perfect competition, monopoly, oligopoly, and monopolistic competition; theories of labor unions and wages; antitrust policy; and the microeconomic view of international business. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL109 and MATH120 or MATH125	3
ECON201	Macroeconomics This course introduces students to economics, the schools of economic thought, and international economics. Students learn the methodology, concepts, and terminology of macroeconomics, including principles, theories, and tools. They also study banking, money, the Federal Reserve System, and monetary theory. In addition, macroeconomic problems such as inflation, unemployment, economic growth, and globalization are discussed. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL109 and MATH120 or MATH125	3
ENGL109	Composition This course introduces students to expository and persuasive writing. Employing critical thinking and the writing process, students will compose academic essays utilizing a variety of modes. They will also analyze and respond to a variety of academic and professional readings. Students will evaluate information and audience to improve form and content. Students are also introduced to the research process, including finding, evaluating, and documenting sources, to complete a short research project using the American Psychological Association Style. Note: ENGL109L is a 0 credit hour lab utilized in the Accelerated Learning Program (ALP). Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): Appropriate test scores or successful completion of ENGL021. Student must also complete a diagnostic writing sample.	3
ENGL110	Advanced Composition This course further develops the skills in expository and persuasive writing that were introduced in ENGL109, English Composition. Students develop critical thinking through the creation of essays and documents that use argumentation and persuasion. As a team, students collaborate to present a required assignment to the class. Students learn to research, evaluate, and incorporate information from both primary and secondary sources, to document secondary sources using APA format, and to analyze information and audiences to improve form and content. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL109	3
ENGL311	Professional Writing This course develops the written and presentation skills necessary for success in professional, supervisory, or managerial positions. Emphasis on communication in both on-paper and digital media is included. Students also learn to use a variety of formats, styles, and delivery systems to achieve the clear, concise, and professional communication required to communicate in global markets. To stress the importance of workplace communication, students create a major professional document as a team. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL110 and COMM120	3
HUMN	Humanities Elective	3
SOSC	Social Science Elective	3
SOSC201	Diversity in Society This course introduces students to the complex issues surrounding diversity in U.S. society and to the need for understanding difference in an increasingly globalized world. Students will explore the social-historical context of multiple experiences on individual, cultural and institutional levels. They will analyze the complex interactions regarding diversity in organizations. Students will also evaluate their own thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors in order to understand their roles in a diverse society. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
STAT220	Introduction to Statistics This is the basic statistics course in which students learn to collect, analyze, present and interpret data. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods are applied in problem-solving and decision-making situations. Analysis of large, real-world data sets will be performed using statistical software. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): MATH120 or MATH125	3
MATH120	College Mathematics Students in this course will explore and apply college-level mathematical concepts so as to enhance their critical and creative thinking skills. This course aims to increase students' appreciation of the utility and application of mathematics. Topics will include i) problem solving, ii) set theory and real numbers, iii) linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and iv) probability. Other topics of interest will be selected from graph theory, prime numbers, logic, number representation, and voting theory. Fees: Additional course fees apply. Prerequisite(s): Appropriate test scores, placement criteria, or successful completion of MATH 030	3

Foundations of Business		27 Credits
ACCT200	Accounting Basics for Managers This course is designed strictly for the non-business major. It is a comprehensive survey course of financial and managerial accounting concepts that discusses the financial aspects of starting and growing a business. Specifically, the course explores the role of accounting in business, examining the balance sheet, profit/loss statements, and cash flow reports. Students will also learn how to analyze financial statements and financial trends. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
BITS211	Microcomp Appl Spreadsheet Students create and manipulate spreadsheets with MS Excel to solve business applications. It is expected that students have a familiarity with spreadsheet software, as the course quickly progresses to advanced features, including data validation, linked workbooks, pivot tables, lookup functions, solver, and scenario manager. By the end of the semester, students will have the prerequisite skills to take applicable certification testing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Prerequisite(s): MATH120 or MATH125	3
BITS212	Microcomputer Apps Database Students learn to create and manipulate databases to solve business applications. The course begins with the basic structure and configuration of tables, queries, forms, and reports. It then advances to more complex queries, custom forms and reports, macros, and the integration of databases with the web and other programs. At the end of the semester, students combine these features into a functional database which has a user-friendly interface. By the end of the semester, students will have the prerequisite skills to take applicable certification testing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Prerequisite(s): CISP100	3
BITS214	Microcomputer Applications This course expands on prior word processing knowledge. Students study advanced commands and features of industry-standard word processing software for production of various business documents. Some areas of study include macros, mail merge, sharing data, compiling specialized tables, collaborative tools, and forms. Upon successful completion of this course, students will have the prerequisite skills to take applicable certification testing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Prerequisite(s): CISP100	3
BUSN210	Professional Ethics This course explores applied ethics, focusing on social and professional situations especially in the fields of business, law, and technology. Students learn ethical theory as they examine the complexities of ethical dilemmas. Students also compare and contrast ethical and moral systems. In addition, students apply creative and critical thinking to ethical dilemmas involving professional and social responsibility. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees.	3
CISP111	Requirements Planning/Develop This course surveys the main components of the business systems cycle. The five phases of the systems development life cycle (SDLC) (systems planning, system analysis, systems design, systems implementation, and system operation and support) will be investigated. Students will look at how many of the typical business needs are incorporated into a business system. These may include invoicing, accounts receivable, order entry, inventory, accounts payable, payroll, manufacturing, and sales/marketing. Participation in a group project, site visit, or case study will give students a sense of group dynamics in real-world systems development projects. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Prerequisite(s): CISP100	3
GPMT287	Principles of Project Mgmt Students gain an essential understanding of the discipline and approach to the management of projects in a global environment. Topics explained include project definition, resource planning, project scheduling with Gantt charts, project control, as well as planning and scheduling with limited resources. Topics are explored from both a quantitative and qualitative perspective. Students learn and utilize project software throughout the course. Various techniques used in planning, scheduling, ROI, and controlling projects will be explored and applied through the use of simulations. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): HLTH211, MGMT211 or CISP111	3
HRMG213	Human Resource Management This course is an overview of the responsibilities of a human resource management department in a business setting. The elements of job analysis, recruitment, selection, training and assessment, are described. Additionally, compensation and benefits administration, labor relations and the legislative and legal decisions affecting human resource policy are explored. Various workplace situations are examined through the use of problem solving exercises and discussion. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): HLTH211 or MGMT211	3
MGMT211	Management Foundations This course provides a foundation in basic management principles with special application and focus on the supervisory level of management. The four universal functions of management (planning, organizing, leading, and controlling) are explored. Students learn the theories and study their impact on the history of management practices. Proper case analysis process is also examined and applied through the discussion of various supervisory/managerial case situations. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): ENGL109	3

Major		39-52 Credits
HRMG431	Negotiation/Dispute Resolution This course analyzes conflict in business and develops new approaches to negotiating with people from both similar and different backgrounds. Many dimensions of negotiation are discussed including interpersonal, organizational, collective bargaining, and cultural dynamics. Students review strategies in various conflicting situations including cooperative, competitive, and labor relations. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL311 and HRMG213	3
IAAS221	Security Foundations This course will provide an overview of information security from both the perspectives of the organization and that of personal computing. Topics include security management practices, physical security, security architecture, business continuity and disaster recovery planning, access control systems, security controls, cryptography, telecommunications and network security, operations security, law and ethics, and personal computer security. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Recommended Prerequisite(s): CISP100	3
LEGL101	Introduction to Legal Studies	3
LEGL213	Torts Students are introduced to areas of legal liability commonly encountered by individuals and business as well as to the methods of liability avoidance. Topics covered include intentional torts, negligence, strict liability, product liability, malpractice, premises liability, dramshop, consumer protection, and other areas of tort liability. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): LEGL101	3
LEGL215	Litigation This course is designed to familiarize students with the basic requirements of the Michigan Rules of Court and the litigation process. The purpose is to enable them to assist the attorney in preparation of legal papers and documents in a timely and comprehensive manner. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): LEGL101	3
LEGL216	Legal Research Students are introduced to the published sources of law and research strategies utilized to efficiently analyze legal issues and determine the current state of the law. Students learn to use print resources, as well as computer assisted research tools to access primary and secondary sources of law. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): ENGL110 Prerequisite(s): LEGL101	3
LEGL218	Legal Writing	3
LEGL220	Technology in the Law Office This course provides an opportunity for students to use computer technology and its application within law firms and other entities engaged in the practice of law. It covers the use of technology in, e-discovery, office management, case management, litigation presentation and billing. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): LEGL101 for students seeking the Post-Baccalaureate only Prerequisite(s): BITS211 (required for associate’s and bachelor’s degree seeking students) and LEGL101.	3
LEGL301	Business Organizations Students are introduced to legal problems encountered in business formation, operation, and acquisition, including the law concerning sole proprietorships, general and limited partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies. They are also introduced to related business law concepts. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): LEGL101	3
LEGL308	Estate Plan & Probate Law EL Students are introduced to the process of estate planning, from initial client contact to asset identification and appraisal through drafting of estate planning documents, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney and medical advanced directives. Students also learn about estate administration, guardianships and conservatorship through the drafting of petitions and other court documents. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): LEGL101	3
LEGL401	Employment and Labor Law This case study course focuses on the managing of employer/employee employment related issues through an examination of the major federal laws governing the employment relationship such as: National Labor Relations Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, Age Discrimination in Employment Act, Americans with Disabilities Act, Fair Labor Standards Act, and the Occupational Safety and Health Act. Emphasis is placed on the critical thinking and problem solving skills required of business managers responsible for the hiring, directing and terminating of workers in both non-union and union environments. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): BUSN210, ENGL311, LEGL210, and MGMT211	3
LEGL415	Advanced Litigation This is an advanced course in trial practice. Particular emphasis will be given to discovery and trial preparation. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): LEGL215 and LEGL218 are the required prerequisites for bachelor’s degree seeking students. LEGL215 and LEGL216 are the required prerequisites for the students in the post-baccalaureate certificate program.	3
LEGL490	Legal Studies BS & Cert Intern Registration Internship/Practicum Note: Attend Mandatory Internship Workshop at least two semesters prior to your desired internship course semester. The required internship workshop and approval process can be found at:https://my.davenport.edu/internships This bachelor-level internship is the integration of previous classroom instruction with new learning acquired through on-the-job work experience. This course will provide an on-the-job experience in the day-to-day routine and operation of a law office or other legal setting. 150 hours of career-related work time shall be required for the 3 credit course and 200 hours for 4 credits pursued. Internship hours will be scheduled in partnership between the student and the site and reported via weekly reports filed by the student in the academic course. Students will be supported to identify site possibilities; however, responsibility for selection by the internship employer rests with the student. The internship may be either paid or unpa	3

Choose 15 credits of Open Electives or one of the following specialties:		15 Credits

General Practice Specialty [GEPS]		(12) Credits
LEGL204	Family Law Students are introduced to the practical skills required in divorce, paternity, child protection, guardianship, and other proceedings. Special emphasis is placed on interviewing, investigation, file organization, and drafting documents in preparation for litigation in each of these subject areas. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): LEGL101	3
LEGL303	Bankruptcy Law	3
LEGL305	Real Estate Law EL	3
LEGL496	Legal Ethics & Cert Review This class provides an extensive review of all previous course work in order to prepare the student for the National Association of Legal Professionals or NALS, ALS examination, the basic certification for legal professionals. At the completion of the course work, the ALS examination will be administered. In addition to standard tuition fees for this course, there is an additional examination fee and NALS membership fee that must be paid to NALS prior to taking the examination. These additional fees are set by NALS and may be subject to change by NALS. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): All required law classes completed or taken concurrently.	3

Litigation Technology Specialty [LITS]		(12) Credits
LEGL211	Criminal Law This course examines Criminal Law in the United States, with an emphasis upon its basic functions and principal components. The substantive elements of crimes and defenses are explored along with an examination of the impact of crime on society. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Co-requisite(s): ENGL110 Prerequisite(s): LEGL101 or LEGL210	3
LEGL300	Evidence & Criminal Procedures This application-based course examines procedural and evidentiary rules and cases relating to admissibility of criminal evidence. Students are introduced to preparing and filing documents involved in criminal litigation from initial client contact through sentencing and appeal. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): LEGL101 or IAAS256	3
LEGL425	Contracts & Product Liability Students examine the interplay between contracts, sales, warranties, and product liability. Distinctions between the elements of common law and the structure of the Uniform Commercial Code will be the primary focus of the course. The course includes the available remedies under each theory should a breach occur. Additionally, theories of warranties and how they tie into contract law will be covered. To complete the business transaction, an examination of product liability will be addressed. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): LEGL210	3
IAAS487	Internet/Email/Elect Discovery This course surveys the technical and managerial challenges that the Internet and email play in the electronic discovery process. Particular consideration is given to the policies, procedures and examination of emails and Internet activity in the corporate environment. The course focuses on creating policies and procedures for email and Internet usage; analysis of Internet usage and email examinations to support civil/criminal litigation. Applicable Course Fees can be found at https://my.davenport.edu/financial-aid/how-much-does-du-cost/tuition-and-fees. Prerequisite(s): ENGL311, IAAS221 and LEGL300	3

Open Electives		(3-15) Credits

Which class should I take? When should I take it?

See our Recommended Program Sequences:

Accredited

Davenport has specialized accreditation through the IACBE

96%

of Davenport grads are employed within six months of graduation

Why get a degree in legal studies at Davenport?

In the bachelor of legal studies program at Davenport, you’ll learn from legal professionals who are at various stages of their career, from professors with decades of experience to practicing attorneys who bring the most current legal trends to the classroom. Their connections to the legal community run deep and can mean potential internship or career opportunities for you.

Experience the Davenport difference:

Davenport’s bachelor of legal studies program will prepare you to continue your legal education or to go right to work in the field.

Get into a school of law

Receive outstanding preparation and support to get into law school through Davenport’s bachelor of legal studies program.

Hands-on practice

Apply what you learn in the classroom to the real world through hands-on coursework and internships.

Paralegal preparation

Become an important part of a legal team through a degree in legal studies that also prepares you to work as a paralegal.

Get started on your degree in legal studies

Explore the admissions requirements and then take the next step toward earning your bachelor of legal studies degree at Davenport.

Talk to an admissions advisor

Davenport’s admissions team is here to answer your questions. Please call us at 800.686.1600 or email us at info@davenport.edu.

Apply now or request more information

Start on your path to a future career in the legal field. Request more information or begin your application now.

Davenport programs related to the bachelor of legal studies

Legal Studies Post-Baccalaureate Certificate

BBA in Human Resource Management

BBA in Management

BBA in Sport Management

Additional resources

About Davenport University

Davenport is a private, not-for-profit university with more than 150 years of experience preparing students for successful careers.

Hands resting on a desk, completing legal paperwork

Gain invaluable experience while serving others

Through the Davenport Estate Planning Service program, legal studies students have provided about $100,000 worth of free legal estate planning services over the last five years.

Legal Studies Program Goals

Upon graduation, students will be able to:

Associate of Science (AS) - Legal Studies

Explain the relevancy of the Code of Professional Responsibility and how it relates to the paralegal profession.
Apply technology to produce legal documents in the area of business and personal legal services.
Create legal documents similar in content and quality to those routinely produced in business and personal legal setting.

Bachelor of Science (BS) and Post Baccalaureate Certificate - Legal Studies

Create legal documents similar in content and quality to those routinely produced in business and personal legal services.
Integrate the use of technology to facilitate the production of legal documents in the area of business and personal legal services.
Recommend an ethical course of conduct by determining the appropriate application of the Code of Professional Responsibility to ethical dilemmas occurring in business and personal legal services.

Legal Studies Degree Objectives

Graduates will be able to:

Associate of Science (AS) - Legal Studies

Apply accounting principles to inform decision-making in a business setting.
Illustrate the principles of professional business ethics utilized in business decision-making.
Use computer application technologies in the creation of business documents.

Bachelor of Science (BS) and Post Baccalaureate Certificate - Legal Studies

Apply business functional knowledge to inform decision-making in a business setting.
Integrate the principles of professional business ethics utilized in business decision-making.
Utilize computer application technologies in the creation of business documents.

Some programs require a student to complete a portion of their degree plan off-campus.
View a full list of those programs and courses

Source:

DU Graduate Survey, 2023