Choosing the Right Strand for a Career as an Attorney: STEM vs. Humanities/HUMSS
Diving into the world of law requires a strategic approach to educational planning. Two popular strands, STEM and Humanities/HUMSS (Humanities and Social Sciences), each offer distinct advantages that can prepare students for a successful career as an attorney or lawyer. In this article, we will explore the key factors to consider when deciding which strand is the best fit for you.
The Importance of Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Both strands have their merits, but the Humanities/HUMSS Strand is generally considered the better choice for aspiring attorneys due to its focus on critical thinking, communication skills, and analytical abilities. These skills are crucial in legal studies and practice, as legal reasoning and argumentation require a deep understanding of complex problems and the ability to form clear, logical arguments.
Subjects like history, literature, and social studies provide a strong foundation in understanding legal systems, societal issues, and ethical considerations. This interdisciplinary approach helps students develop a well-rounded perspective that is invaluable in the courtroom and beyond.
Law School Admission and Beyond
While many law schools appreciate the analytical abilities and critical thinking skills developed in STEM subjects, they often look for applicants with a strong background in humanities and social sciences. These areas help develop the skills necessary for legal reasoning and argumentation, making Humanities/HUMSS graduates more competitive for admission.
For instance, if you have an interest in intellectual property law or technology law, a STEM background can be advantageous. However, for the majority of legal careers, the Humanities/HUMSS Strand provides a more direct alignment with the skills and knowledge needed for a successful legal career.
Breaking Down the Most Recent Discussions
Other articles and discussions have highlighted the importance of GPA and standardized tests like the LSAT. While these factors are significant, particularly for law school admission, the debate over the value of STEM versus Humanities/HUMSS is ongoing. As one lawyer pointed out, having a STEM degree may provide some job prospects if you choose not to pursue law school.
Your undergrad doesn’t matter in law school. I am a commercial litigator, business lawyer that has a degree in chemistry. Practicing business law if I could redo undergrad I’d get an accounting degree. It is amazing how much business decision-making is guided by the accounting and tax treatment.
Another lawyer with a BA in theatre suggests that the most important skills for law school are reading, writing, and studying. They recommend considering a postgraduate degree to learn critical thinking skills that are often lacking in undergraduate programs.
Unless you want to be a patent attorney which requires a BS degree your undergraduate degree is irrelevant. I have a BA in theatre. It more important that you learn reading, writing and studying skills in college to prepare you for law school. Personally If you can afford it I would recommend going to graduate school prior to law school. Because that is where you learn how to think. Most colleges teach you how to memorize and regurgitate material. Not a lot of independent thinking is done.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the choice between STEM and Humanities/HUMSS depends on your specific interests and career goals. If critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills are your top priorities, the Humanities/HUMSS Strand is the better choice. However, if you have a strong interest in STEM subjects and want to pursue specialized areas like intellectual property or technology law, a STEM background can also be beneficial.
Regardless of the strand you choose, the key is to develop a strong foundation in critical thinking, argumentation, and ethical reasoning. This will serve you well throughout your legal career and help you navigate the complex challenges of the law.