Psychology and Law Oakland University

Overview

The Psychology and Law programme at Oakland University provides an innovative and accelerated pathway for students aiming to integrate psychological expertise with a professional legal career. By combining a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a Juris Doctor, this 3+3 track allows high-achieving students to save a full year of tuition and enter the workforce sooner.

This unique interdisciplinary approach ensures that students develop a profound understanding of human behaviour and motivation alongside rigorous legal training. Participants spend their first three years completing undergraduate requirements before transitioning to an affiliated law school for their final three years of study.

The curriculum is designed to foster essential skills such as evidence evaluation, logical argumentation, and advanced research.

Why Psychology and Law at Oakland University?

Students benefit from an exclusive partnership with nationally ranked law schools, including Wayne State University and the University of Detroit Mercy. These affiliations provide a streamlined transition into top-tier legal education for those who meet the necessary academic criteria during their initial three years.

The programme is noted for its emphasis on advanced research training, covering design and methodology more comprehensively than many standard pre-law tracks. This analytical rigour ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the complexities of modern legal research and data interpretation.

Practical experience is a cornerstone of the student journey, with numerous opportunities for hands-on field placements. Students can undertake internships in mental health clinics or social service agencies, focusing on the intersection of psychology and legal issues like juvenile delinquency or domestic violence.

Instruction is delivered by senior faculty members who provide personalised attention in small class settings. This supportive environment allows students to tailor their elective choices to suit their specific career goals, ensuring a bespoke educational experience that maximises their professional potential.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 23867 per year
• National fee: USD 23867 per year
• Local fee: USD 16772 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Psychology
• Research Design
• Methodology
• Statistical Analysis
• Emotional Development
• Social Dynamics
• Social Science Research

Careers with Psychology and Law

Graduates are exceptionally well-qualified to serve as practicing attorneys, using their knowledge of human behaviour to excel in negotiation, mediation, and interrogation. The ability to understand the psychological state of clients and witnesses provides a significant advantage in courtroom settings.

Beyond traditional legal practice, the dual expertise gained through this programme opens doors to leadership roles in various sectors. Graduates often find success in nonprofit leadership, public administration, business management, journalism, and educational consultancy.