Does Marist have a Pre-Law major?

The College does not have a Pre-Law major. Instead, students from any major may draw upon Pre-Law resources at any point in their college careers. These include intensive advising, extracurricular events, and coursework. Students considering a career in law often gravitate toward majors and minors in Political Science, History, English, and Philosophy, and many students develop law-related skills through courses such as PHIL 203 Introduction to Logic and ENG 222 Introduction to Professional Writing. Students also have the opportunity to choose the Legal Studies Pathway as part of their Core requirements.

What is the Paralegal Studies Certificate?

The Paralegal Studies Certificate is a 60-credit program (36 general-education credits and 24 credits of specialized courses) that trains students to function as paralegals. Paralegals work with lawyers to conduct research; investigate facts; analyze, digest, and draft documents; and interview clients and witnesses. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law. Students may complete this certificate program, which recently celebrated its 26th year of approval from the American Bar Association.

How can I learn about Pre-Law courses and career options during my time at the College?

Extensive, individualized Pre-Law advisement is available to all Marist students regardless of field of study or major throughout your undergraduate experience. The Pre-Law/Paralegal Studies Director, Professor Annamaria Maciocia, assists students with a wide range of pre-professional challenges, including course selection, LSAT preparation, law school applications, law school selection, personal statements, and the admission process. A full-time faculty member and member of the Northeast Association of Pre-Law Advisors, Professor Maciocia is admitted to practice law in the State of New York and also serves as the town justice in the Town of Plattekill Court. Students in any major may request the designation of Prof. Maciocia as a secondary advisor through the Registrar's Office.

The Marist College Pre-Law Advisory Board provides another outstanding resource for Pre-Law students seeking advice about law school placement, internships, and information with respect to the legal field. Members of the Board regularly visit campus to participate in campus talks and workshops with undergraduates.

What internship opportunities does the College provide for Pre-Law students?

The Mid-Hudson River Valley Region is home to numerous exciting venues for internships. The College coordinates distinctive programs such as the Albany Internship Experience and the Center for Civic Engagement and Leadership. Pre-Law students regularly also complete internships through the Washington Semester Program and the Hansard Society Scholars Programme. Other recent internship sites include the U.S. Federal Bankruptcy Court, the New York State Attorney General Regional Office, and Dutchess County Family Court. 

What kinds of Pre-Law campus events are held at the College?

April is "Pre-Law" month at the College, with many lectures, workshops, and other events taking place. But opportunities for academic enrichment and interaction with legal professionals occur throughout the year. They include everything from discussions of current events, to the nuts and bolts of the law school application process, to Q & A sessions with Marist alumni currently in law school. In most cases these events provide Pre-Law students with the opportunity to ask questions and glean information in an interactive, small-group setting. The student-run Pre-Law Society, as well as the Marist College Pre-Law Advisory Board and Pre-Law alumni, play crucial roles in contributing to these events.