Minor
About Law and Philosophy (Minor Only) at CSUSB
The Law and Philosophy minor at Cal State San Bernardino integrates the analytical tools of philosophy with foundational concepts in law, legal reasoning, ethics, and public policy.
Designed for students across any major, this interdisciplinary minor encourages thoughtful reflection on the moral, logical, and conceptual dimensions of law and society.
Through structured coursework, students explore issues such as justice, rights, legal argumentation, constitutional law, and ethical decision-making.
The minor sharpens students’ abilities to think critically, interpret complex texts, and construct well-reasoned arguments—skills that are valuable in many professions and essential for those considering careers in law, public service, or graduate study.
Careers in Law and Philosophy (Minor Only)
The Law and Philosophy minor supports students pursuing careers where ethical reasoning, analytical rigor, and clear communication are essential. While the minor itself does not qualify students for legal licensure, it provides a strong intellectual foundation for law school and roles that demand thoughtful engagement with legal and ethical issues.
Career pathways connected to this minor include:
- Pre-law and legal careers, including preparation for law school
- Paralegal and legal assistant positions
- Public policy, government, and civic engagement roles
- Ethics and compliance analysis in business or nonprofit sectors
- Criminal justice and restorative justice fields
- Human rights and social advocacy work
- Education, research, and academic writing
- Graduate study in philosophy, law, public policy, or related disciplines
The minor’s emphasis on reasoning, logic, and ethical judgment enhances students’ competitive edge across many fields where thoughtful deliberation and persuasive communication are valued.
Meet Professor Van Tu
Opportunities for Students
Students in the Law and Philosophy minor benefit from rigorous and reflective coursework that connects abstract concepts to real-world issues:
- Introduction to legal reasoning and the philosophy of law
- Ethics, logic, and argument analysis, building skills in clear thought and persuasive expression
- Courses that examine justice, rights, and constitutional questions
- Faculty mentorship from philosophy and law-related scholars
- Opportunities to engage in research or independent study on topics such as legal philosophy, moral dilemmas, or human rights
- Interdisciplinary connections with political science, criminal justice, sociology, and public policy coursework
- Critical writing and discussion, preparing students for graduate study and professional environments
These experiences help students integrate philosophical depth with practical understanding of legal and ethical frameworks.