Appalachian State University
Political Science (BS) - Legal Studies
Application Deadlines
Location
Boone campus
Got credits?
Learn about transferring credits to App State
Your journey to a legal career starts here.
Acquire an organized body of knowledge about government and think analytically about public policy, law and politics with App State’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Political Science - Legal Studies.
This intensive program includes courses in political theory, international politics and foreign policy, judicial decision-making, administrative and criminal law and more. Our curriculum prepares you for the rigorous analytical reasoning and clear, logical, written and oral communication skills you will need in a variety of legal careers, in both the public and private sectors, or to pursue graduate studies.
Plus, you will have the opportunity to engage in an internship to gain real-world experience in the legal system, in settings such as local and state government agencies, law firms, law enforcement agencies and legal nonprofits.
A ‘Best College’ for 2025
The Princeton Review named App State among the best schools in the U.S. and Southeast for 2025.
Top 3 in innovation, undergraduate teaching
U.S. News & World Report has recognized App State as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years.
A ‘Best College’ for value
App State’s quality, affordability and student outcomes place it among the nation’s 2024 best schools for value, according to Money.com
Innovative Academics
Courses
Minors
A minor is optional. Popular choices include Accounting, Philosophy, History and Communication.
Transferring Credits
Learn about App State’s credit transfer process, and use our Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how your courses may transfer to App State.
General Education
With courses in history, natural and social sciences and humanities, App State’s General Education Program will reshape your outlook on learning and provide a foundational skill set that will prepare you for any career.
Accelerated Master’s
You can begin your graduate studies as an undergraduate and earn your master’s degree in as little as one year.
Careers
Where can an App State degree take you? Anywhere you want to go! Our passionate and engaged alumni become leaders in their communities and chosen professions.
Careers
- Attorney
- Congressional Aide
- Consumer Advocate
- Environmental Policy Analyst
- FBI/CIA Agent
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Legal Assistant
- Legislative Analyst
- Lobbyist
- Paralegal
Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.
Career information resource
App State’s Career Development Center
Services provided by the Career Development Center include resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for you to achieve life and professional success.
More to Explore at App State
Fund Your Education
Numerous scholarship and financial aid opportunities are available to help fund your App State education. Learn more about scholarships and financial aid.
International Experience
Work outside your cultural boundaries. Learn more.
Real-world Internships
Gain firsthand experience while earning your degree. Learn more
Find Your Community
Get inspired and get involved by joining App State clubs and organizations, such as the App State Mock Trial Club. Learn more
Honors College
Develop high-level creative thinking and research skills. Learn more and check out the departmental honors program.
Apply
Are you ready to become a Mountaineer? Take the next step, apply for admission to App State and elevate your future success.
Admissions questions? Contact us.
Connect
Program Contact
Dr. Cathy Marcum
Department Chair
828-262-3075
[email protected]
Dr. Heather Ondercin
Political Science Curriculum Coordinator
828-262-6349
[email protected]
Visit Campus
Explore App State’s campuses in Boone and Hickory and learn more about what life is like as a Mountaineer.
Attend an information session to get to know App State’s people and programs.
Admissions Counselor
Have questions related to the App State admissions process? Our admissions counselors are here to help.