Law and public policy at Memorial

The major and minor in law and public policy are administered by the Department of Political Science.

Courses in these programs have an applied focus aimed at preparing students for a career of public service. The curriculum blends the development of key policy analysis skills—such as legal reasoning, governance, public administration, statistics, and data gathering—with coursework on topical policy issues or problems.

The degree is intended to impart broad cross-disciplinary fundamentals as distinct from a specialised “pre-law” program or a Diploma in Public Policy.

Admission requirements

You may apply for admission into the Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences by indicating bachelor of arts as your program choice on the undergraduate application for admission. Direct entry into the faculty is subject to your meeting the general admission requirements for Memorial University.

If you want to declare a major or minor in law and public policy, you should consult with the program's designated academic advisor to discuss the requirements of the program.

Sample first year

Wondering what courses you would take in your first year? Check out a sample program of suggested courses for law and public policy students.

Sample courses and degree map

LWPP 3215 - International Human Rights
LWPP 3620 - Law and Judicial Authority
LWPP 3640 - Ethics, Leadership and Policy Analysis

Career opportunities

A bachelor of arts degree, with a major in law and society, prepares students for a variety of careers including:

• academia
• law
• politics
• business
• journalism
• police work
• law
• policy making
• public relations
• foreign affairs
• international development

Note: some of these careers may call for supplementary education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential learning or professional courses and exams.

The study of law and public policy provides students with an understanding of the legal underpinnings of public policy, across a wide range of domestic and international cha as it applies to state and non-state actors, across a wide range of domestic and international challenges.