coursework in law

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What is law school like: first-year curriculum.

The first-year curriculum is the brick and mortar of your law school education. No matter what school you attend, here are the courses you can expect your first year in law school:

Civil Procedure

Criminal law, constitutional law, legal methods.

A tort is a harmful act for which someone might be held legally responsible under civil law. You'll study the rationale behind judgments in civil cases. Here's a handy acronym for the primary actionable torts in the United States: FITTED CAB — F alse I mprisonment, T respass (to land), T respass (to chattel, or personal property), E motional D istress, C onversion, A ssault, and B attery.

Contractual relationships are varied and complicated—so much so that you'll study them for two full semesters. Through the study of past court cases, you will follow the law governing the system of conditions and obligations a contract represents, as well as the legal resolutions available when contracts are breached.

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If contracts and torts teach you what lawyers do in civil court, then civil procedure teaches you how they do it. “Civ Pro" is the study of the often dizzyingly and complex rules that govern not only who can sue whom, but also how, when, and where they can do it. Rules of civil procedure govern the conduct of both the courtroom trial and the steps that might precede it: discovery, pleading, pretrial motions, etc.

Like so much U.S. law, the laws governing the purchase, possession, and sale of property in the U.S. often date back to the English common law. Anyone interested in achieving an understanding of broader policy issues will appreciate the significance of this material. Many property courses will emphasize, to varying degrees, economic analysis of property law.

Even if you become a criminal prosecutor or defender, in practice you will probably never encounter the crimes you will be exposed to in this course. Can a man who shoots the dead body of someone he believes to be alive be charged with attempted murder? What if someone forced him to do so at gunpoint? What if they were both on drugs—or had really rough childhoods? Your crim. class is likely to rely heavily on Socratic dialogue, and criminal law professors are notorious for their ridiculously convoluted exam questions.

As close to a history class as you will take in your first year, "Con. law" will emphasize issues of government structure and individual rights.

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This course travels under various aliases, such as “Legal Research” and “Writing or Elements of the Law.” It will most likely be your smallest, and possibly your only respite from the Socratic method, though it may also take up the most prep time outside the classroom. This course is designed to help you acquire fundamental skills in legal research, analysis, and writing.

In addition to these course requirements, many law schools require 1Ls to participate in a moot court exercise. As part of this exercise, students—sometimes working in pairs or even small groups—must prepare briefs and oral arguments for a mock trial. This requirement is often tied in with the methods course so that those briefs and oral arguments will be well researched—and graded.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Law

What is law, and why is it important to study ‎.

The law is defined by the Cambridge Dictionary as "a rule made by a government that states how people may and may not behave in society and in business, and that often orders particular punishments if they do not obey." The creation and enforcement of laws is in many ways the foundational role of government, and it can be considered a defining feature of society as a whole. After all, what is more universally important than our collective definition of what is right and wrong?

We may share an intuitive sense of morality in the abstract - e.g., physically harming others or stealing from them is wrong and should be punished. However, differences over the details of exactly what is defined as a crime and what its consequences are have always been the subject of great debate, and having the power to determine the law is in a sense the objective of all politics.

Beyond the technical definition of the law, injustice in how law enforcement can sometimes work in practice - including inequalities in who is punished, how severely they are sentenced, and what legal services they have access to - have also animated social and political movements throughout history, such as the Civil Rights movement and Black Lives Matter.

Understanding both the "de jure" and "de facto" aspects of the law is thus essential to understanding how society works. It's knowledge you need for being an engaged citizen in a democracy - and, if you choose to pursue a career in law, for your job. ‎

What careers can I pursue in the field of law? ‎

When you think of jobs in the legal field, the first thing that comes to mind might be the kind of high-powered lawyer or judge you see in courtroom dramas like Law & Order, The Practice, or Suits. Becoming a lawyer is a great career choice if you have the desire and ambition, with a median average annual salary of $120,910 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics .

However, you don't have to go to law school or work on your cross-examination skills to find a rewarding career in this field. Law offices rely on paralegals, legal secretaries, and numerous other "behind the scenes" professionals to provide lawyers with research and administrative support. And businesses often employ full-time compliance specialists to ensure that their operations avoid creating any legal risks.

Many politicians and other government policymakers also draw upon a background in law, either through a law degree or as part of a political science degree. And even if they themselves are not lawyers, Congresspeople and other elected representatives rely on legal experts on their staff to help them achieve their legislative goals effectively. ‎

What online courses does Coursera offer in the field of law? ‎

Online courses are a great fit for studying subjects in law, as the ability to complete coursework on a flexible schedule can be ideal for doing the close readings of legal texts required to develop expertise in this field. This flexibility is also helpful for learners that want to develop their skills in law while continuing to work full-time jobs.

As the world's leading online learning platform, Coursera offers courses in a wide range of legal topics. Many learners choose to focus on specific areas of interest in the law, such as business law , common law , international law , contract law , immigration law , or intellectual property and copyright law . Alternatively, you can look at issues in law through a more normative, big picture lens with courses in justice , human rights , and public policy .

Regardless of your specific focus, Coursera gives you the opportunity to learn from world-class institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Chicago, and the University of Geneva. And you’ll get the same high-quality education as on-campus students at a significantly lower cost. ‎

What skills or experience do I need to already have, before starting to learn law? ‎

Learners do not need to have any special skills or experience before starting to learn law. An interest in the legal system is helpful, however. People with a background in government, human resources, risk management, and compliance are well suited to begin learning law. ‎

What kind of people are best suited for roles in law? ‎

An abstract thinker who can consider every side of an issue and wants what is fair and just is best suited for a role in law. People considering a role in law need to have an open mind and the ability to express themself clearly and concisely both verbally and through the written word. For some people, the best role in law involves representing clients in a criminal court. Some are more suited to work for a corporation as an attorney and advisor. Others may choose roles that focus on social justice and immigration reform. ‎

What topics can I study that are related to law? ‎

Topics that explore human rights are related to law and may discuss issues surrounding children's rights and immigration status. For those interested in the business end of law, topics that examine taxes, contracts, privacy, and trademarks may be of interest to you. Topics exploring labor and employment are good considerations if you are interested in both the business and human sides of law. Criminal law delves into many topics, including incarceration, international law, understanding violence, forensic science, and psychology. Studying corporations and our planet Earth are related to environmental law and policy. There are many branches to law, and it’s important to consider which topic will most engage and inspire you before proceeding. ‎

What types of places hire people with a background in law? ‎

Lawyers may work for a nonprofit organization providing legal advice to disadvantaged individuals. For those interested in working in government, lawyers may work as prosecutors or public defense attorneys. Lawyers interested in politics may also choose to work in government counsel writing legal reviews, arguing cases for the government, and interpreting laws. Lawyers can also work full time for a corporation or as a teacher in a university. They can also have their own private practice. ‎

What are the benefits of taking an online Law course? ‎

Online Law courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your existing knowledge or learn new Law skills. With a wide range of Law classes, you can conveniently learn at your own pace to advance your Law career. ‎

What Law courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce? ‎

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Law, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here . ‎

Other topics to explore

Core Undergraduate Courses for Law School Aspirants Coursework

Key to law school preparation is selecting undergraduate courses that enhance critical thinking and communication skills. Concentrating on English Literature, Political Science, and Modern History lays a solid foundation. These courses refine analytical abilities and provide a profound understanding of the societal structures and effective communication skills crucial for legal professionals.

Selecting the right undergraduate courses is a strategic step for anyone aiming to excel in law school. Focusing on disciplines like English Literature sharpens critical thinking and hone the ability to articulate complex ideas effectively—a skill indispensable in the legal field.

Similarly, delving into Political Science provides insight into the workings of government and legal systems, fostering a nuanced understanding essential for future lawyers. Moreover, Modern History offers a rich context for current legal frameworks, allowing students to analyze and interpret laws from a broader historical perspective. These subjects form an educational triad that equips aspiring law students with the necessary intellectual tools to navigate legal studies’ challenging yet rewarding path.

Analytical Prowess through Literature and History in Law Coursework

A firm grasp of English Literature and Modern History equips students with the ability to analyze complex texts and understand diverse perspectives, both critical skills in law. By dissecting literary works and historical events, students enhance their ability to construct compelling arguments and develop a keen sense of empathy, which is crucial for legal reasoning and client advocacy.

Political Science and Understanding the Legal Framework for Coursework

Political Science plays a pivotal role in understanding the legal system. Courses in this discipline offer insights into governmental structures, political theories, and public policy, all of which are directly relevant to law. This knowledge benefits law school entrance and forms the backbone of legal understanding, particularly in constitutional and administrative law.

Broadening Horizons with Humanities and Social Sciences for Law Coursework

In Law Coursework, studying human behavior and societal norms through Psychology, Sociology, and Economics is essential for future legal experts. These disciplines provide valuable insights into societal interactions, crucial for the legal context of Law Coursework. Going into Philosophy and Ethics courses can give law school aspirants a robust understanding of moral reasoning, which is fundamental in legal decision-making.

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Specialized Pre-Law Courses for Law Coursework

Many universities offer specialized pre-law courses or modules for Law Coursework, providing a sneak peek into legal studies. These Law Coursework courses may include introductory courses in Constitutional Law, Criminal Justice, and Legal Writing, which are particularly beneficial for understanding the intricacies of law and the art of legal argumentation.

The Importance of Academic Experiences

In Law Coursework, an academic portfolio can be a significant advantage for law school aspirants. Incorporating courses from the STEM fields or business studies in Law Coursework can provide a distinct perspective on legal issues. This diversity in academic pursuits signifies adaptability and comprehensive intellectual capabilities, traits highly valued in the legal field and essential for Law Coursework.

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Your Law School Application and Law Coursework

Beyond academics in Law Coursework, extracurricular activities are crucial in strengthening a law school application. Active engagement in debate societies, mock trials, relevant internships, and community service for Law Coursework demonstrates practical skills, initiative, and a deep commitment to legal studies, making your application more compelling.

The LSAT: The Key for Law Coursework

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is critical to the law school application and Law Coursework. This challenging test, pivotal in Law Coursework, requires thorough preparation as it assesses essential skills of reading, logical reasoning, and analytical thinking. A high LSAT score is critical and can significantly boost your chances of admission to a prestigious law school.

Law School Application for Law Coursework

A robust law school application, integral to Law Coursework, is not just about grades; it’s about telling a compelling story. It should reflect a deep passion for law, highlighting your academic journey, Law Coursework decisions, and underlying motivation for pursuing a legal career. In Law Coursework, articulate personal statements, and strong letters of recommendation underscore your commitment and readiness for law school, which are essential components.

The right coursework mix, extracurricular activities, and a solid LSAT score are crucial for aspiring law students. At Writing Metier , we have a team of writers who can assist with Law Coursework writing. This strategic academic planning sets a strong foundation for law school and a successful career in the legal profession. Becoming a distinguished lawyer starts with these critical educational and preparatory steps.

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Laura Orta is an avid author on Writing Metier's blog. Before embarking on her writing career, she practiced media law in one of the local media. Aside from writing, she works as a private tutor to help students with their academic needs. Laura and her husband share their home near the ocean in northern Portugal with two extraordinary boys and a lifetime collection of books.

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Programs of Study

Programs of Study at Harvard Law School

Aligning Courses and Practice

Harvard Law School offers more courses and seminars than any other law school in the world. This is a tremendous resource, but the large numbers of courses, across a huge range of topics and approaches, also can be daunting. The faculty encourages J.D. students to build on the foundation of the first year with both sufficient focus to pursue deep knowledge and with sufficient curiosity to explore a broad array of ideas about and approaches to law. Pursue your own passions, and also think about how to take advantage of opportunities for advanced work, clinical work, fellowships, and courses elsewhere in the university.

To guide you in pursuing deepening knowledge and progression as you move through the three years of law school and to create a tool for better coordination and collaboration between faculty members, the faculty has developed “programs of study.” Students do not sign up for any program; nor should any student feel compelled to adhere to one. Instead, the programs of study reflect the best advice from faculty about how to approach particular subjects and potential careers.

Current Programs of Study

The programs of study listed here include suggestions about how you can navigate our extensive course offerings with a sense of their relationship to different avenues of study. The programs provide opportunities to move progressively through more advanced work before graduation. Faculty are encouraged to think through the best ways of offering and combining courses as they plan their own teaching programs. J.D. and L.L.M. students then get a picture of how different courses and seminars can relate to the work of practicing lawyers and academics, and how clinical work, summer opportunities, and fellowships also enhance your learning and development.

Criminal Law and Policy Program of Study

International and comparative law program of study, law and business program of study, law and government program of study, law and history program of study, law and social change program of study, law, science, and technology program of study.

Beyond any specific program of study, the faculty advises all students to take courses offering exposure to a variety of topics and methodologies. The faculty has long recommended that students consider taking at least one course that offers a particular perspective on the legal system or a distinct way of thinking about law. We continue to recommend such courses, whether in legal history, comparative law, law and economics, and jurisprudence and legal theory.

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