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Arts and Sciences
A student reading a book in a classroom.
Undergraduate
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Philosophy and Law

Philosophy has long served as a foundation for legal thinking. It teaches students how to reason carefully, argue persuasively and ask the kinds of human-concerned questions that shape public life: What is justice? What is the basis of right and wrong? What is the most just form of government?

Seton Hall’s B.A. in Philosophy and Law builds on that tradition — pairing a full major in philosophy with applied coursework in legal studies. The result is a program that prepares students for law school, policy work and many other careers that demand ethical reasoning, strong writing and the essential critical thinking skills to examine complex issues.

Why Choose Philosophy and Law?
Studying philosophy changes how you think, write and engage with the world. Combined with legal study, it becomes a dual-strength path for those who want to influence systems, shape policy or simply understand the structures that govern our lives. This interdisciplinary program features:

  • A full liberal arts major in philosophy, including courses in ethics, logic and political thought.
  • Foundational law courses covering legal research, constitutional principles and how laws are made and interpreted.
  • Specialized tracks in areas such as business and finance, technology and privacy, health and human services, or sports, gaming and entertainment law.
  • An academic experience that emphasizes critical thinking, moral reasoning and clear communication—skills that carry across professions.

This major provides excellent preparation for thinking through the legal, ethical and social dimensions of a students’ work and helps them stand out in competitive fields, where clear thinking and sound judgment are often the most valuable assets.

Students graduate ready to go on to law school or graduate programs in philosophy, public affairs or health administration. Others pursue law-adjacent roles in government, compliance, policy and nonprofit leadership—or roles such as management analysts, human resource specialists or social/human service assistants.

Resources:

College Facts

  • 2,801 Undergraduate Enrollment
  • 6:1 Student to Faculty Ratio
  • 81% Employment Rate
  • 98% Graduate School Acceptance Rate
ArtSci By the Numbers

Curriculum

Students begin with courses that explore key ideas—ethics, logic, morality—and build toward advanced seminars. Early philosophy courses introduce logic, ethics and political theory, while foundational law classes introduce foundational legal concepts, legal research methods and applied-law frameworks.

As they enter their junior year, students choose one of three tracks, in which they complete three applied law courses that best match their interests:

  • Technology and Privacy
  • Business and Finance
  • Health and Human Services
  • Sports, Gaming and Entertainment

Faculty Listing

The B.A. in Philosophy and Law brings together interdisciplinary faculty from the Department of Philosophy, College of Arts and Sciences and School of Law. These dedicated scholars and practitioners draw on their diverse experiences and backgrounds to bridge the gap between theory and practice – in the classroom and beyond.

View a listing of Department of Philosophy faculty »
View a listing of Seton Hall Law faculty »

Experience Seton Hall. Visit Us Today.

As one of the country's leading Catholic universities, Seton Hall has been developing students in mind, heart and spirit since 1856. Home to nearly 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students, Seton Hall is a place that nurtures compassionate leaders who are prepared to make a difference in the world.

Seton Hall offers all the advantages of a large research university - a national reputation; challenging academic programs; notable alumni; state-of-the-art facilities; renowned faculty; and extensive opportunities for internships, research and scholarship - with all the benefits of a small, supportive and nurturing environment.

The best way to truly experience Seton Hall is to visit us in person.

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