Your Future in Law, Policy and Justice

If you've ever wondered how laws get made, why the justice system works the way it does or how people actually create systemic change — the University of Dayton has programs built around those exact questions.

Through our pathways in political science, criminal justice and security studies, and pre-law, you'll move beyond the classroom to build the critical thinking, deep research and persuasive writing skills employers want. By participating in hands-on internships, service learning and professional mentoring, you won't just study the common good — you'll actively work toward it. You'll graduate with the real-world experience, professional network and values-based foundation needed to succeed in a career of purpose and impact.




Every Student Is Unique. So Are We.

Opportunity to Combine Your Interests

When you combine your political science or criminal justice studies major with a minor — or even a double major — you can expand your possible career opportunities.

The pre-law studies minor is open to students of all majors, and is a great option if you're considering a legal career. Whether you're pursuing a degree in philosophy, health science, finance or mechanical engineering, the pre-law studies minor can help you determine whether the law is the right path, and if it is, equipping you to excel in law school.

Experiential Learning Requirement

Pre-Law Studies Minor

As a pre-law minor, required experiential learning through legal internships or the mock trial program assists you with vocation identification and exploration of career options as future legal professionals. It also provides practical and professional experience while working toward your undergraduate degree.

Criminal Justice

The criminal justice program at the University of Dayton gives you a link between academics and a real-world working environment with a one-credit experiential learning requirement. Through experiential learning, you'll develop knowledge, values and skills in experiences outside the traditional academic classroom.

This experiential learning requirement can be fulfilled with a one-credit class through two options:

  • Option 1: Internship, which is a supervised, structured work experience related to a student's academic field that enables them to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting while gaining valuable workplace.
  • Option 2: Service learning, which is a community-engaged learning that encourages students to apply their knowledge and skills creatively to address a particular need, social justice issues or ethical problems, contributing to the health and well-being of individuals in the community.

Please contact Susybel Kallsen if you have questions. Current students can find additional information on Porches.

Criminal Justice Studies Scholarship

In addition to the undergraduate scholarships offered by the University, the criminal justice studies program offers the Sheriff Bernard "Beno" Keiter Memorial Scholarship Award.

This award annually recognizes the outstanding criminal justice studies junior and/or senior. Monies awarded partially defray the student's tuition during their selected year of study, while a plaque is given at the annual graduation banquet acknowledging their academic achievements and contributions to the program, the University and/or the community.


Featured Initiatives and Programs

Dayton2DC

Dayton2DC is an annual opportunity for University of Dayton students to engage with professionals and gain practical advice about starting and navigating a career in D.C.

Statehouse Civic Scholars

Statehouse Civic Scholars is an eight-week, summer residential internship opportunity in highly desirable offices in state government located in Columbus, Ohio.

Inside-Out Prison Program

The Inside-Out Prison Program challenges crime, justice and social stereotypes by facilitating meaningful conversations between individuals inside and outside of correctional facilities.

Mock Trial

In Mock Trial, student teams compete in simulations of real trials, advancing through local, regional and national competitions. Team members are assigned roles of attorneys and witnesses.



Student Spotlight

Arianna Pearson enjoys the University of Dayton's Pre-Law Program because its experiential learning opportunities allow student to explore the legal profession.

Prepare for Law School

Head Start in Legal Writing

Introduction to Legal Research, Writing and Analysis (PLW 350) is a legal writing course taught by lawyers who are experts in legal writing. Our course gives an unparalleled head start on your first-year law school legal writing course. Learn all of the basics before you even get to law school.

LexisNexis Partnership

Students who participate in this online certification course are exposed to basic legal research techniques as they develop familiarity with the LexisPlus legal research platform, both of which are typically reserved for law school students and legal professionals. Students will earn a micro-credential for their resumes.


Keller Hall

UD School of Law link-arrow link-arrow

Interested in law school? The UD School of Law offers a welcoming atmosphere, a commitment to providing practical legal training and the flexibility to offer you a variety of ways to earn your degree.



Department News and Updates
4.21.2026
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New book examines how vice presidents shape campaigns, presidencies link-arrow link-arrow

The book examines how modern vice presidents have been transformed from an afterthought to one of the president’s most important governing partners.
4.13.2026
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UD Statehouse program helps students build networks, launch careers in Columbus link-arrow link-arrow

The program connects course concepts to real-world policymaking and helps students build professional networks in Columbus.
11.5.2025
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UD psychology, criminal justice studies major named Newman Civic Fellow link-arrow link-arrow

Nancy Garcia was named a 2025 Newman Civic Fellow for her exceptional commitment to civic engagement.