Department of Legal Studies

Welcome to the Law at Sage

The Sage Colleges offers many opportunities for the study of law and justice, each with its own unique focus and curriculum.

The Bachelor of Science in Law and Society at the Sage College of Albany involves students in the interdisciplinary study of law and psychology and criminal justice, with a focus on understanding the relationship between law and human behavior and the roles of law and justice in society. This program is different from law-related programs in other colleges because its focus is not just on systems and structures, but also on what make them tick -- the human element. It is a program for students who are looking to use their education to "make a difference" to others, in their communities, and in the world.

Russell Sage College offers a Pre-Law Studies for women. Experience and education in the pre-law program gives students an understanding of what to expect in law school and helps them choose their paths. Students in Pre-Law Studies have an academic advisor in their major AND a pre-law advisor who is a lawyer suited to help them prepare for a career in the law. While most pre-law students nationally are political science [link] majors in college, at Russell Sage a student in any major can also be involved in Pre-Law Studies.

A small number of highly qualified women at Russell Sage College are afforded the opportunity to apply to Russell Sage's 3+3 Program with Albany Law School. If accepted, students who maintain a 3.2 cumulative average are guaranteed admission to Albany Law School after their Junior year at Sage. Entrance requirements to this exclusive program are high, but once in you save one year of college and the stress and pressure of sweating out law school admission.

For students interested in earning a law-related Associate degree to be completed in two years of full time study, the Sage College of Albany offers an Associate in Applied Science Degree in Legal Studies. The Associate degree program is an ideal way for students to get their "feet wet" in the law and can, if desired, lead to a bachelor's degree in either Law & Society at SCA (see above) or Legal Studies in Sage After Work (see below). This program is also suited for students who are interested in a college degree that will enable them to be eligible for certain New York State Civil Service positions.

Sage After Work offers two law-related programs. Both programs are offered entirely in an evening and weekend, work-related schedule with several opportunities for web-based coursework. They are designed for adult learners who wish to attend college either for completion of an undergraduate degree or for post-undergraduate work. The Bachelor of Science degree in Legal Studies, prepares graduates for paralegal and other law-related employment opportunities in the private and public sectors and in public interest law.

Please explore the links from this page and contact Professor Pamela Katz, Associate Professor of Legal Studies, Coordinator of Legal Studies Programs, Pre-Law Advisor.