Is MIS a Good Major for Law School?
Aspiring law students often wonder about the relevance of their undergraduate major in their future legal careers. The path to becoming a lawyer is singular, typically involving a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, with only one major focus: the law. However, there's an increasing intersection between technology and the legal field, especially with the rise of cyber-related issues. Given the importance of certain technical skills, particularly in the context of data breaches and cyber crimes, it's natural to wonder if a degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) could be a good choice for law school.
Law School: A Singular Focus on the Law
The primary goal of law school is to immerse students in the law and prepare them to be lawyers. There are no other majors or options offered, as the curriculum centers on legal education. At the end of the first year, students typically encounter courses like Introduction to Law, Contracts, Property, Legal Research and Writing, Criminal Law, and Criminal Procedure.
While this singular focus may seem limiting, the importance of an undergraduate major is often secondary to a student's ability to handle the demands of law school. Successful admission to law school is primarily based on academic performance and the demonstration of hard work and dedication. The rigor of the course work and the grade point average (GPA) are key factors in gaining admission. Therefore, the subject matter of an undergraduate major is less critical than indicators of academic achievement.
Technical Skills: A Necessity for the Modern Legal Environment
Despite the singular focus on the law in law school, having technical skills is increasingly important, especially in the realm of cyber law. Understanding the technical aspects of computer science can greatly benefit future lawyers, as many legal issues stem from technological advances. For instance, the patent law and intellectual property law sectors, which are often underpinned by computer science knowledge, are rapidly expanding.
To sit for the patent bar exam, one must have an accredited computer science undergraduate degree. This highlights the direct link between computer science studies and the legal profession, particularly in the realm of patents and intellectual property. The Comp Sci Accreditation Commission (CSAC) of the Computing Sciences Accreditation Board (CSAB) or the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) must accredit the degree before graduation. This requirement underscores the value technical education brings to a law career focused on innovation and technological advancement.
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills
Beyond the specific technical requirements for the patent bar, a background in computer science can significantly enhance a law student's problem-solving skills. The process of critical thinking, problem solving, and strategic planning is central to both computer science and law. These skills are invaluable in a legal context, where the ability to read, analyze, and apply logic to solve complex issues is crucial. The training in logical reasoning and critical thinking that comes from a computer science background can significantly benefit law students as they navigate the complexities of legal practice.
For those unsure about their field of law, a start in patent law or intellectual property law, which are closely aligned with computer science, can be a strategic choice. Additionally, the niche of cyber and information security law is becoming increasingly important, offering a dual focus on technology and law. This field not only addresses the legal aspects of cyber-related crimes but also provides the tools to combat these growing threats.
Given the current landscape, a degree in Management Information Systems (MIS) can indeed be a good major for law school, particularly for those interested in cyber law and intellectual property. It provides a strong foundation in technological issues that are increasingly central to the legal profession. By combining technical skills with legal expertise, MIS students can position themselves well for a career in law, particularly in specialized areas such as patents, intellectual property, and cyber law.
Conclusion
The choice of major for law school is not as important as one might think. What admission committees value most is the evidence of a strong academic performance and a demonstrated ability to handle the rigorous demands of law school. However, having a technical background like MIS can provide a unique advantage, especially in the rapidly evolving field of cyber law. If you're passionate about both law and technology, an MIS degree could be a strategic choice to prepare you for a career in this exciting and dynamic field.