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Jun 12, 2026
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2026-2027 University Bulletin Working Copy
Social Justice and Legal Studies - B.P.S.
Location(s):
Online
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 Return to: University Programs
The Social Justice & Legal Studies major provides students with an interdisciplinary understanding of the legal system through the lenses of economics, philosophy, theology, public policy, and social justice. Students develop critical thinking, advocacy, and analytical skills while exploring contemporary legal and societal issues impacting individuals and communities. The program prepares graduates for careers in law firms, corporate legal departments, public service agencies, advocacy organizations, and community-based initiatives. Students interested in paralegal or legal support careers may pursue coursework in specialized areas such as civil litigation and real estate law to prepare for industry certification opportunities. The major also serves as a strong foundation for advanced graduate study, including pathways into Dominican University’s MA in Trauma-Informed Leadership and MS in Information Management programs.
The following microcredentials can be earned along the way:
- Applied Legal Foundations
- Civic Policy
- Foundations of Criminal Justice Administration
- Labor Relations and the Public Sector
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BPS Degree University Core Curriculum Requirements
30 credit hours required; requirements may be met through coursework at other institutions Major Foundation and Specific Courses
In addition to satisfying the University Core Curriculum requirements for the Bachelor of Professional Studies above, students must complete 42 credits in the major and related areas. Major Foundation Requirements
Students must take all three courses (9 credit hours): Major Specific Courses and Microcertifications
Thirty-three (33) credit hours of major specific courses. Students are encouraged to bundle courses to complete microcertifications along the way that meet their professional interests. Applied Legal Foundations Microcredential
The Applied Legal Foundations micro-certificate explores the practical application of legal principles through the lenses of religion, philosophy, economics, and contracts, equipping students with a foundational understanding of how law shapes ethical decision-making, public policy, and modern society. Civic Policy Microcredential
The Civic Policy micro-certificate introduces students to the foundational principles of social policy and public administration, examining how governmental systems, institutional decision-making, and public programs shape communities and influence social outcomes. Foundations of Criminal Justice Administration Microcredential
The Foundations of Criminal Justice Administration micro-certificate introduces students to the core principles of criminal law, legal procedure, public administration, and the justice system, while exploring the organizational and leadership foundations necessary for effective administration within criminal justice agencies and public service institutions. Labor Relations and the Public Sector Microcredential
The Labor Relations & the Public Sector micro-certificate equips students with foundational advocacy, negotiation, and leadership skills while exploring labor relations, collective bargaining, union dynamics, and administrative law within public sector organizations and government systems. Major Specific Electives
30 credit hours required - Students can choose any 200-level or higher social science courses (limit of 3 HS courses)
BPS Seminar Requirements
18 credit hours BPS Additional Information
- Each academic year consists of six 8-week sessions
- Most classes are offered in an 8-week format
- Transfer credit of up to 68 semester credit hours from community colleges or up to 90 semester credit hours from a combination of community colleges and 4-year colleges or universities may be granted.
The Bachelor of Professional Studies degree requires 120 total credit hours comprised of the following: - University Core Curriculum Requirements (30 credit hours)
- Major Specific Courses and Electives (42 credit hours)
- Seminar Requirements (18 credit hours)
- Electives (30 credit hours)
BPS Accelerated Degree Options
Bachelor of Professional Studies/Master of Social Work High-achieving undergraduates can apply for the Bachelor of Professional Studies/Master of Social Work (MSW) accelerated degree. Students admitted to this option can enroll in MSW courses before completing the BPS and have up to 30 MSW credit hours apply to both their undergraduate and graduate degrees. Additional information is available through the College of Applied Social Science - TBD [Inactive] advising office. Bachelor of Professional Studies/Master of Library and Information Science High-achieving undergraduates can apply for the Bachelor of Professional Studies and, in their senior year, take up to two library and information science courses with approval of the director of the School of Information Studies. The 6 Information Studies credit hours apply to both their undergraduate and graduate degrees. Additional information is available through the College of Applied Social Science - TBD [Inactive] advising office. Bachelor of Professional Studies/Master of Business Administration High-achieving undergraduates can apply for the Bachelor of Professional Studies and, in their senior year, take up to two MBA courses with approval of the director of the Brennan School of Business - TBD [Inactive]. The 6 BSB credit hours apply to both their undergraduate and graduate degrees. Additional information is available through the College of Applied Social Science - TBD [Inactive] advising office. |
Return to: University Programs
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