Welcome to the Law / Legal Services / Criminology / Forensics Community
This is not just about being a lawyer, it is about everything that falls under the umbrella of law, justice (criminal, restorative, community, etc.), mediation, investigation, intelligence, and enforcement. It applies to many different communities, organizations, branches, bureaus, and spans a range of opportunities to be involved.
If you are seeking information specifically about applying to law school, please see the UMass Pre-Law Advising website.
For more general information about the broader career fields in law and legal services, explore the resources below.
Sample Classes
Depending on your main area of interest, your academic pathway will shift. To explore this field, you can take courses that will provide you with knowledge and skills in:
- Research – for careers in law firms you will need strong research and writing skills.
- Critical thinking – you will learn to reflect upon and evaluate your own ideas and to analyze problems using evidence-based information.
- Communication skills – you will learn to actively listen to others and to articulate your ideas in writing and verbally in a way that will help you achieve your goals.
Below are a few examples of relevant courses you might consider. We urge you to talk to your major/departmental advisor and explore available courses in SPIRE. Remember not to constrain yourself to classes within your major.
Check SPIRE for full course descriptions and availability. These are abbreviated descriptions, and details may change at the discretion of the instructor. Courses may not be offered every semester.
Has it been tough to gain experience and hence, build your resume during the pandemic? Here’s a great way to get some experience and differentiate yourself.
Paragon One partners with employers to offer paid “externships” to students. Externships are a …
By
Carol Sharick
Carol Sharick
Director of Career and Professional Development for Undergraduates, College of Social and Behavioral Sciences 
MA Appellate Court at UMass Amherst
UMass Amherst is once again hosting the state Appeals Court on campus as they hear 6 oral arguments. The Appeals Court is a court of general appellate jurisdiction, which means that the justices review …
By
Rebecca Bell
Rebecca Bell
Associate Director of Career and Professional Development for SBS 
As you look for jobs—particularly admin jobs such as executive assistant or office manager—you may see that employers are looking for administrative skills. And for good reason: Businesses can’t run without them. “Focusing on administrative skills can transform average companies …
Intern, Forensic Investigations & Intelligence
Economic Research Analyst - winter/spring start
Spring 2022 Internships
Investigator Level I
2021-2022 Civil Rights Internships for Undergraduates and Law Students
Clinical Coordinator, Pretrial Services
