American/U.S. Law/Legal Studies/Jurisprudence
Total graduates
869
2025 · 38 schools
International share
39.2%
341 international students
Bachelor's degrees
43
11.6% international
Master's degrees
807
39.8% international
Overview
The field of American Law, also known as Legal Studies or Jurisprudence, encompasses the study of the legal system, principles, and institutions in the United States. It is an interdisciplinary field that combines elements of law, politics, philosophy, and social science to provide a comprehensive understanding of how law functions within American society.
Students of American Law engage in exploring various aspects of the legal system, including constitutional law, criminal law, civil rights law, and international law. They examine the historical development of laws and legal doctrines, analyze case studies, and discuss contemporary legal issues. Critical thinking and analytical skills are emphasized, as students learn to interpret statutes, evaluate legal arguments, and understand judicial reasoning.
Legal Studies programs often incorporate practical experiences such as internships, moot court competitions, and opportunities for community service, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The curriculum may also cover topics like legal writing, research methodologies, and ethical considerations in law practice, preparing students for future careers in law, public policy, or related fields.
Graduates from American Law programs often pursue careers as attorneys, legal analysts, paralegals, or work in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and corporations. Additionally, many choose to continue their education in law school to earn a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, which is essential for practicing law in the United States.
Overall, the study of American Law is vital for understanding the complexities of the legal system and its impact on society, making it an essential area of academic inquiry and professional preparation.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2003 to 2025, graduates grew 960% and the international share went from 39.0% to 39.2%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 38 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lawyers | 754,500 | $89.35 | $185,840 |
| Law Teachers, Postsecondary | 20,060 | — | $144,770 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2003–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.