The B.S.L. degree is typically intended for students who wish to attend law school but have not already completed a Bachelors degree. Often the B.S.L. is awarded to these students after they successfully complete a minimum amount of coursework towards a J.D. or an L.L.M.
A B.S.L. degree may also be suitable for students who are interested in alternative careers in the legal field, such as paralegal, or in related fields like criminal justice, human resources or labor relations.
In addition to the traditional classroom format, some schools offer B.S.L. courses in formats that require no classroom or seminar attendance, such as distance learning or as independent study. Depending on the school, students may be able to choose their preferred format or take courses in different formats according to their individual needs.
Degree requirements for the B.S.L. vary from school to school, but typical courses include legal writing and research, contracts, torts, criminal law, criminal procedure and civil procedure.
Each school has its own requirements for admission which may include an Associates degree or previous college coursework, acceptable Law School Admission Test (LSAT) scores or passing general examinations in various subjects.