Law & Society

Get to Know the Program

Law & Society at Acadia is a dynamic, interdisciplinary program that challenges you to think critically about law, justice, and the way legal systems shape society, both in Canada and around the world. This program is perfect for students who want to explore the intersections of law with politics, economics, the environment, and social issues, while developing the analytical skills needed to understand and solve real-world problems.

As a Law & Society student, you will learn to identify and assess principles of law and justice, conduct specialized legal research, critically examine legal processes, and analyze how laws interact with broader societal forces. You’ll also gain the tools to tackle complex legal questions with confidence.

You can pursue an Honours, Major, or Minor in Law & Society (LAWS), tailoring your degree to your interests. With small class sizes and close connections to faculty, you’ll have the chance to engage deeply with your professors, participate in hands-on research, and build a network that will support you long after graduation.

Take your learning, and skills development, off campus and to the world.

Study Abroad
Study abroad is available!
Co-Op
Co-op is available!

Get Involved Outside of the Classroom

LAW AND SOCIETY STUDENTS’ ASSOCIATION (LSSA)EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES

Degree Timeline

First Year
  • Take required introductory courses
  • Join clubs and get involved on campus and within the program
Middle Years
  • Opportunity to become a teaching assistant
  • Connect with faculty about summer research
  • Option to enrol in the co-op program
Final Year
  • Choose to complete honours program
  • Earn your degree

Sample Courses

These sample courses highlight the breadth of the Law & Society program, from understanding legal systems and political processes to exploring social justice, economics, and philosophy.

LAWS 1003 or 1013

INTRODUCTION TO LAW & SOCIETY

POLS 1303

INTRODUCTION TO LAW, POLITICS, AND GOVERNMENT

SOCI 1013

INTRODUCTION TO CANADIAN SOCIETY

BUSI 3613

BUSINESS LAW

ECON 3363

LAW AND ECONOMICS

HIST 3303

GENOCIDE AND JUSTICE

PHIL 3202

PHILOSOPHY OF LAW: RIGHTS, LAWS AND JUDGES

POLS 3083

ISSUES IN INTERNATIONAL LAW

SOCI 2723

CANADIAN CRIMINAL JUSTICE

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CAREER OPTIONS AFTER GRADUATION

A Law & Society degree prepares you for careers where you can shape policy, influence public opinion, and navigate complex legal and social issues.

  • Government relations
  • Law school
  • Journalism
  • Policy analysis
  • Public relations
  • Advocacy work
  • Legislative research
  • Community development
  • Human rights work
  • Roles in think tanks or NGOs
 

Continue Exploring

Want to know more about what's in store? You're invited to continue exploring this field of study by visiting the website of this department to get a greater insight into its culture and dynamics.

Visit the Law and Society program page

Related Programs

Law and Society incorporates elements of many other disciplines. You may be interested in a variety of other programs including:

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