Law and Society (BA)

Explore how law shapes society, and how society shapes the law. In the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Law and Society at Wilfrid Laurier University’s Brantford campus, you’ll examine how legal systems intersect with social issues such as power, colonialism, race, culture and economics. 

You’ll analyze how laws can address, relieve or reinforce power, inequality and discrimination, and study the role of social movements in advancing justice and influencing legal change. You'll build strong research, critical thinking and communication skills that prepare you for careers in law, public policy, government, advocacy, social services, policing and graduate or professional studies.

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you'll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose Law and Society?

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Pathway to Law School
    You can also pair your Law and Society (BA) degree from Laurier with a Law (LLB) degree from the University of Sussex (United Kingdom) through our six-year pathway program.
  • Practice-Based Curriculum
    Courses combine theoretical approaches with critical frameworks, allowing you to develop essential skills to succeed beyond the classroom.
  • Develop Essential Career Skills
    Students will learn research and communications skills necessary for future employment and postgraduate studies. You will have the opportunity to do oral presentations and write longer research-intensive essays.
  • Politics and Public Policy Specialization
    Critically engage with the important political processes, systems and institutions that shape the world. With the Politics and Public Policy option and specialization you will see how law is influenced by political forces and the dynamics of public policy development and implementation.

How Will I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Experience Guide for even more!):

  • Research Assistantship
    Earn a research or instructional assistantship position applying your learning while assisting a professor from the Law and Society program.
  • Pursue Your Passions
    Customize your degree with opportunities to explore topics that inspire you through the Research Apprenticeship Program, as well as directed studies, internship, and thesis courses. Share your coursework or research with a wider audience at the Academic, Creative and Engaged Research Showcase (ACERS).
  • Become a Member
    Become a student member of the Laurier Law CouncilCanadian Criminal Justice Association and/or Ontario Bar Association.
  • Get Involved
    Join student clubs such as the Law & Society Students' Association, Laurier Moot Court, or Student Rights Advisory Committee and build leadership skills through joining an executive team.

Courses and Program Enhancements

Explore a sample weekly schedule to see what your day-to-day might look like in this program.

What Courses Will I Take?

Get a glimpse of what you will study throughout your degree. See what your first-year classes will look like through sample courses and start exploring what your upper academic years can offer.

How Can I Enhance My Degree?

Explore a variety of courses, specializations and pathway options that let you shape your degree around your unique interests and goals. Find out how you can customize your experience and prepare for what’s next.

Admissions

  • Format: full time or part time
  • Duration: four years
  • Start: September (fall term), January (winter term) or May (spring term)

Career options

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you’re going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

Our Law and Society (BA) graduates go on to a wide range of rewarding careers. Here are just a few examples:

  • civil servant
  • court support worker
  • community program developer
  • human rights advocate 
  • immigration and settlement worker
  • law clerk 
  • law library assistant
  • lawyer 
  • legal aid worker 
  • labour relations specialist 
  • non-profit organization administrator
  • paralegal 
  • probation officer 
  • public policy advisor
  • research consultant 
  • survivor/victims’ advocate 

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

Explore more careers.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you'll have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Tuition and Costs

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Liberal Arts at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Liberal Arts students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for Liberal Arts Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $7,222 $36,624
Student Fees $1,830 $2,778
Textbook Fees $1,500 $1,500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Scholarships and Bursaries

When you apply to Laurier you’ll be automatically assessed for entrance scholarships (based on your final admission average) and for in-course scholarships in your upper years (based on your Laurier GPA from the previous academic year). We also offer more than 700 competitive scholarships and awards, which require separate applications and may be awarded throughout the academic year.

Additional Financial Support

  • Get information and advice on eligibility for government assistance (like OSAP) from our Financial Aid office.
  • Apply for bursaries to receive additional support based on financial need and academic performance.
  • Learn money management skills through courses, workshops and financial coaching.
  • Visit the Career Centre for support finding part-time job opportunities.

 

Laurier graduates employed or in post‑graduate studies in 2025

 

Laurier students engaged in hands‑on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

Brantford Campus

The Brantford campus blends small-city charm with big opportunities. It’s home to more than 2,400 students learning in modern classrooms inside beautifully restored buildings, with access to recreation at the Laurier Brantford YMCA and one-stop student services within One Market. With affordable living options, 20+ programs to choose from, great walking and biking trails and a welcoming community, Laurier Brantford is the ideal place to live and learn.

There are many ways to tour our Brantford campus, whether that's on a guided tour with one of our Laurier student ambassadors, on your own using virtual reality, or even on-demand through one of our pre-recorded tours. See our campus spaces and start to picture yourself at Laurier.

students in a classroom

How Will I Learn in This Program?

This is primarily an in-person program, meaning you'll attend classes on campus and learn face-to-face with professors and classmates. When you register for courses, you'll be able to select from available sections and create your timetable. 
 
In-person delivery gives you direct access to faculty, hands-on learning opportunities and a traditional university student experience.

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Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548‑889‑8888 or see all contact information.


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Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?