Law & Legal Studies Programs

Law and Legal Studies Program

Meet the Pre-Law Advisor

Chris Shortell

Professor Chris Shortell

Why Study Law & Legal Studies at PSU?

Our Law and Legal Studies program at PSU allows students to take courses across a range of disciplines and approaches. This leads to a breadth of knowledge about the law. PSU offers unique opportunities for students who are interested in the law:

  • Pre-law Advising: Portland State offers comprehensive faculty advising for students interested in pursuing law school after graduation.
  • Portland Law School Fair: PSU hosts the fair for the entire Portland metropolitan area. This fair brings in 60 - 70 law schools from across the country and is a great opportunity for students to connect with recruiters and ask questions. 
  • Explore the Law Program: The Oregon State Bar Association and the Multnomah County Bar Association partner with PSU and support the program which is administered through Student Legal Services: It's a free, year-long program for students to explore and prepare for careers in law.

Many students who minor in Law and Legal Studies go to law school after their undergraduate studies, but that is not the only path. The minor offers a well-rounded education that is useful in business, law enforcement, and politics. Our students have been accepted into top law programs at schools like Lewis & Clark, University of Washington, and Willamette University. 

Learn About Law and Legal Studies

At Portland State University, our Law and Legal Studies program offers a variety of pathways to explore the complex interplay of law, society, and culture. Students can pursue a Minor in Law and Legal Studies, which provides an interdisciplinary, liberal arts approach to understanding legal systems and their broader implications. For those seeking an expedited route to a legal career, our Accelerated 3+3 Program allows students to earn both a bachelor’s degree and a law degree in just six years through a partnership with Lewis & Clark Law School. Additionally, our Direct Admissions program offers qualifying PSU students and alumni guaranteed admission to Willamette University College of Law, along with a renewable scholarship. Dr. Chris Shortell provides comprehensive pre-law advising, guiding students in their law school preparation and career planning. Whether you're aiming for law school or simply want to deepen your understanding of legal concepts, our programs are designed to support your academic journey.