Law and Legal Studies Major Law & Legal Studies Major The Law and Legal Studies major provides cadets with a basis for understanding both discrete legal disciplines within the U.S. legal system and the relationships of these disciplines with each other in creating a just and effective rule of law society.Offered by the Department of Law & Philosophy. Breadcrumb academics majors and minors law and legal studies major academics-sidebarnav MENU Academic Program Majors & Minors Enrichment Opportunities Internships Study Abroad Extracurricular Opportunities Service Academy Exchange Program Scholars Program Departments Overview Courses Enrichment Are you interested in how laws are made, how justice is applied, or how ethical decisions shape military and national policy? Do you want to be the kind of leader who not only follows orders but understands the legal and moral responsibilities behind them? The Law and Legal Studies major at the United States Military Academy (West Point) gives cadets the knowledge and tools to navigate complex legal systems - and to lead honorably in a world where rules, rights, and strategy often collide.What is Law and Legal Studies?Law and its effects on society have long been a valuable subject of undergraduate study. Writers from Aristotle to Oliver Wendell Holmes have addressed the nature of law and its impacts upon the peoples and cultures of the world. This is, of course, of particular importance in our country which is based in significant part on the principle of adherence to the Rule of Law.Law is the study of the means of maintaining social order, balancing individual interests against the interest of society, resolving disputes, and addressing social concerns.Why Choose Law and Legal Studies at USMA?It sharpens analytical and problem-solving abilities while developing an appreciation of law as a basic foundation of society. A law and legal studies major will equip cadets with the means to understand conflicting issues, to analyze problems, and then to choose the most appropriate solution.The major is not intended to train lawyers. Rather, it prepares cadets for success in command or in any other position in which effective analytical, problem solving, and communications skills are essential. From this understanding, cadets can expand their breadth of experience and gain insight into current social problems or future challenges.The major promotes the development of critical thinking through the use of legal analysis applied across different areas of the law, and sharpens cadets' ability to integrate and evaluate higher levels of theoretical thinking.Law and Legal Studies provides cadets with a basis for understanding both discrete legal disciplines within the U.S. legal system and the relationships of these disciplines with each other in creating a just and effective rule of law society. This major promotes the development of critical thinking through the use of legal analysis applied across different areas of the law, and sharpens cadets' ability to integrate and evaluate higher levels of theoretical thinking.The major does not seek to provide cadets with a body of legal knowledge or to train them to be lawyers – this is not a pre-law program. Rather, the Department of Law's law and legal studies program is designed to educate cadets to be leaders in a changing and often ambiguous world.What To Do With This Major?With a Law and Legal Studies degree from West Point, graduates can:Serve as an Army officer prepared to lead with legal and ethical insightApply to law school or pursue a legal careerWork in government, intelligence, diplomacy, or public policyLead investigations, manage rules of engagement, or work in military justiceThink clearly, argue persuasively, and lead with a strong sense of right and wrongInterested CadetsLearn about the Department of Law & Philosophy (DELPHI)Contact DELPHI Ever wonder how laws are made, how justice works, or what it takes to argue a case in front of a judge? Do you enjoy asking big questions about fairness, power, and right versus wrong? The Law and Legal Studies major at West Point is designed for cadets who want to understand the legal system, sharpen their thinking, and prepare for leadership roles where the law matters.Whether you’re considering a career in law, government, the military, or public service, this major gives you the tools to think clearly, argue effectively, and lead with integrity.Why Consider This MajorIf a cadet is passionate about justice, leadership, public service, or standing up for what’s right, the Law and Legal Studies major lets them turn that interest into real-world impact. They gain a deep understanding of how laws shape military operations and society - and how to lead with discipline, fairness, and courage.Cadets graduate debt-free, with a respected degree and a commission as an Army officer - ready to serve with honor in today’s complex legal and global landscape.What Cadets LearnLaw and Legal Studies focuses on the role of law in society, government, and military life. Cadets explore:American Constitutional Law – how the U.S. Constitution shapes law and leadershipLegal Reasoning – how lawyers think, argue, and analyze legal problemsCriminal Law and Procedure – what happens when someone breaks the lawMilitary Law – the unique legal system used by the armed forcesInternational and Human Rights Law – how laws apply across borders and protect people around the worldThey also practice critical reading, persuasive writing, and public speaking - all vital skills for any leader. Cadets engage in mock trials, debates, and hands-on legal research, all while connecting the law to military realities and national defense.Choice of ElectivesCadets can tailor their academic experience with electives like:Constitutional Law – dig into Supreme Court cases and the foundations of American rightsMilitary Criminal Law – learn how justice is carried out in the armed forcesLaw of Armed Conflict – study the legal rules of war and military operationsInternational Law – explore how laws work between countriesEthics and Moral Reasoning for Leaders – tackle tough moral questions faced by leadersLearn MoreView the full Law and Legal Studies major curriculumMeet the Law and Legal Studies faculty Law and Legal Studies majors have the opportunity to apply to gain practical experience while working closely with recognized experts during Majors can apply to participate in summer Academic Individual Advanced Development (AIAD) programs, USMA-run academic enrichment experiences, programs and staff rides. Majors also get exposed to top legal minds as part of the Ron A. Salvatore Lecture Series .Honor SocietiesGolden Key - International Honour SocietyPhi Kappa Phi - Oldest and Largest Collegiate Honor SocietyTo learn more about enrichment for this area of study, visit the Department of Law & Philosophy, the West Point Center for the Rule of Law and the Lieber Institute for Law & Warfare.