Students question a witness seated next to tables and a podium during a mock trial presentation. Students question a witness seated next to tables and a podium during a mock trial presentation. Students seated at table representing the plaintiff review printed materials during a mock trial presentation.

Public Law Minor
Minor

Program Overview

Gain working knowledge of the American justice system along with means of legal advocacy for traditionally marginalized groups. A public law minor is ideal if you're interested in pursuing a career in public interest law.

Program Snapshot

Program Type: Full-Time
Location: On Campus
Program Length: 1-2 years
Credit Hours: 21

Why This Program & What You'll Learn

You’ll develop practical skills that allow you to work more effectively in and alongside the judicial system, acquire intimate knowledge of advocacy within legal institutions, and pursue justice for historically underrepresented people.

Explore topics like judicial process, constitutional law, criminal law, civil rights, trial advocacy, international law, and social justice, and learn how to brief cases, argue in court, and write persuasive legal briefs, all of which are vital preparation for law school.

Courses What Will Transfer Department Information

Program Highlights

  • Law-based classes all involve different types of simulated legal experiences to enhance your learning and skill development, including supreme court, mock trial, moot court, and criminal law simulations.
  • Legal internship opportunities in Washington D.C. through CMU’s partnership with The Washington Center, in Lansing through the Capitol City Internship Program, and with local attorneys and judges.
  • Earn up to 15 credits that can be double-counted with another major.
  • CMU’s Pre-Law Center offers extensive pre-law advising, pre-law events and workshops, LSAT preparation, law school application assistance, networking opportunities, scholarships, pre-law student groups, and a competitive mock trial team.

Careers & Outcomes

After graduating from Central Michigan University, most of our students go on to law school to pursue a career in public interest law. Many of our alumni are practicing attorneys and judges around the country. Other alumni began working in the legal field immediately after graduation from CMU as paralegals, court clerks, or in the criminal justice system. Others work in public service or have run for public office.

Career Projected Salary
Paralegals/Legal Assistants $60,970
Judge or Hearing Officer $132,950
Court Administrator $77,777
Attorney/Lawyer $127,990 
Student wearing a white shirt and grey pants speaks during a mock trial presentation.

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