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Have you always wondered what it takes to be a lawyer? Or maybe you’re fascinated by how the legal system works? Perhaps you just want to get a sense of what it’s like to attend law school? Whatever the reason, the Wake Forest Law Undergraduate Pre-Law Program is a great way to gain a realistic understanding of the law, the legal profession, and life as a law student.

The program is offered during Summer Session 1, May 29-July 3, 2024.

Curriculum

The Undergraduate Pre-Law Program consists of two courses that are taught at the Law School, but qualify for undergraduate course credit.*

Advocacy, Debate, and the Law 3 credits COM 349

Developed in consultation with Wake Forest College’s nationally ranked Communication Department, Advocacy, Debate, and the Law focuses on applied communication theory, with a special emphasis on the demands of legal communication. Participate and receive critique in interactive exercises such as political speeches, debate, trial practice, and moot court arguments.

Legal Theory, Practice, and Communication 3 credits COM 348

Experience what law school is like and learn what lawyers actually do, whether trying a case or drafting legal documents. The course simulates the first year of law school, emphasizing case analysis and the Socratic Method of teaching. It focuses on learning legal analysis and how various theories of rhetoric advance legal arguments.

*You may enroll in either course independently, but the classes are taught in a coordinated fashion so you will receive maximum benefit from enrolling in both courses simultaneously.

Faculty

Courses are taught by Wake Forest Law Professors Wilson Parker and Chris Nero Coughlin, and Department of Communication Professors Jarrod Atchison and John Llewellyn.

FAQs

What skills, knowledge, and experience will I gain from this program?
  • Problem Solving
  • Critical Reading
  • Writing and Editing
  • Oral Communication and Listening
  • Research
  • Organization and Management
  • Public Service and Promotion of Justice
  • Relationship-building and Collaboration
  • Background Knowledge
  • Exposure to the Law
What are some of the benefits of this program?
In addition to the foundational courses taught by excellent faculty members, you will:
  • Have the opportunity to speak to the Wake Forest Law Assistant Dean of Admissions to learn about the law school application process
  • Be able to ask questions to a panel of current law students
  • Meet practicing attorneys and judges
  • Take a field trip to a court and see the legal system in action
  • Receive individualized feedback on your projects
Do I have to be a Wake Forest University student to attend this program?
No! The Undergraduate Pre-Law Program is open to all Wake Forest University students as well as students in good standing at another accredited undergraduate institution.
Do I have to be a certain year to attend this program?
No! The Undergraduate Pre-Law Program is open to all undergraduate years.
Do I have to major in a certain field of study to qualify for this program?
No! The Undergraduate Pre-Law Program is designed to be an introduction to law. There are no prerequisites and we welcome students with a variety of majors and interests.
Can I participate virtually?
The Undergraduate Pre-Law Program is entirely in person.
What is the application deadline?
Registration opens on March 18, 2024 and will remain open through May 31, 2024

Tuition

  • $950 per credit hour
  • $600 program fee per course
  • Total per course - $3,450
  • Total for program - $6,900

Register by May 31

Get Started

To learn more, contact Bryan Ellrod ellrodb@wfu.edu

To register, visit the Summer Session website.

Register Now »
The Pre-Law Program at Wake Forest provided me with more clarity about my professional goals and allowed me to build a wider network of professional contacts in the field of law. I learned from some of the best lawyers in diverse areas of specialization, greatly improved my writing and argumentative skills, and became a confident public speaker. Thanks to the Pre-Law Program and the amazing professors and professionals who contribute their time and expertise to it, I now have a clearer understanding of what it means to pursue a legal career.

Margaret Webb