About this Program

This program is designed to give students a solid grounding in the history of philosophy and an ability to analyze arguments proposed in serious discussions of any subject. The political and legal studies concentration is aimed at students interested in social and political philosophy, particularly those planning to attend law school.

Program Highlights

  • Courses equip you with versatile and marketable skills, including critical thinking, excellent verbal and written communication, and problem-solving

  • Students completing Philosophy BAs have the highest average composite GRE scores and either the best or nearly the best law school admission rates

  • Our program provides access to real-world experiences such as conferences, clubs, service learning, and summer programs to enhance your resume

  • Passionate faculty invest in the success of every student and seek to support a diverse, and inclusive community of philosophical thinkers

AT A GLANCE
Degree Level
Undergraduate
Degree Earned
Bachelor of Arts
Delivery Modes
On-Campus

Careers

Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.

Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary

$98,620 Median Salary

Teach courses in political science, international affairs, and international relations. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

Editors

$68,230 Median Salary

Plan, coordinate, or edit content of material for publication. May review proposals and drafts for possible publication. Includes technical editors.

Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators, and Hearing Officers

$98,280 Median Salary

Conduct hearings to recommend or make decisions on claims concerning government programs or other government-related matters. Determine liability, sanctions, or penalties, or recommend the acceptance or rejection of claims or settlements.

Lawyers

$141,890 Median Salary

Represent clients in criminal and civil litigation and other legal proceedings, draw up legal documents, or manage or advise clients on legal transactions. May specialize in a single area or may practice broadly in many areas of law.

Requirements

What are the requirements to apply for Political & Legal Studies at ODU?
Students entering the Bachelor of Arts program in Political & Legal Studies should meet the minimum university admission requirements Undergraduate Admission.
  • A student needs to have earned a grade of C or better in ENGL 110C or its equivalent and completed at least 26 credit hours

  • It is also recommended the student have completed PHIL 110P, PHIL 120P, PHIL 230E, or PHIL 250E, but it is not required

Transfer

At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...

Cost

Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.

Active Duty Military Rate
Cost Per-Credit $250
Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit $393
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit $407
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit $1,073

Ways to Save

Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid

Contact

Professor & Chair

9016 BATTEN ARTS & LETTERS
NORFOLK, 23529