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School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

Pre-Law

Become a leader who helps people, resolves disputes, and shapes society.

Calvin’s pre-law program is much more than an advising office. It’s a robust program that equips you for success in law school and a legal career.

Your pre-law experience starts at the very beginning of your time at Calvin, with the question “Is a career in law right for me?” Your pre-law advisor knows the challenges and opportunities that a law career presents and will help you to select courses and programs of study that fit your career goals.

Our Scholarships

You are eligible for our department scholarships!

Named Scholarships

are gifts from real people who care about your success.

Apply

for named scholarships between December 1 and January 31.
1

Application

to match you with any scholarships you qualify for!

How to apply See our scholarships Visit

How will this program prepare you?

You’ll take advantage of incredible opportunities to deepen your knowledge of legal careers and practice areas. You’ll get advice from attorneys at panel discussions, visit law firms, and participate in a law school recruitment fair in Chicago.

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Prepare for the LSAT

Get one-on-one mentoring as you consider your career options, prepare for the LSAT, and navigate the law school application process.

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Find success after graduation

You'll graduate with the skills and confidence to perform well on the LSAT, join a top law school, and thrive as a student and a professional.

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Answers to your questions

Get started by learning more about how the pre-law program works, exploring frequently asked questions about pre-law at Calvin.

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  • To join the pre-law program

    Start by contacting the Center for Student Success and request to declare a pre-law specialization on your academic record.

  • Get on the list

    Then send an email to Professor Mark Hessler to be added to the email list of pre-law program participants.

  • Be ready to learn

    Watch for special additional information about events and programs related to the pre-law program.

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washington-dc

Semester in Washington, D. C.

Study and intern in Washington D.C., where you'll find a wide range of law-related internship experiences and opportunities, and you'll make valuable contacts in many fields.

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Other Opportunities and Resources

Civitas Lab

Join a small group of students who partner with Calvin professors to explore the role that faith plays in law, society, and public life.

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Henry Institute

The Paul B. Henry Institute for the Study of Christianity and Politics was created in 1997 to continue the work of integrating Christian faith and politics  by educator and public servant Paul B. Henry.

Learn more »

Pre-Law Day

This event is designed to help college students explore a future in law. Attorneys share important detail about what their work days are like, and choosing a law career. 

Pre-Law Day 2024 details coming soon!

Pre-Law Faculty

Mark Hessler

Mark D. Hessler

Lecturer; Program Director, MPA Program; Associate Director, Pre-Law Program
616-526-6034
Joel Westra

Joel H. Westra

Department Chair, Professor, Director, Pre-Law Program
616-526-6727

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