Legal Studies & Business Ethics, BS

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Pennsylvania

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Economics with a concentration in Legal Studies & Business Ethics at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School combines business education with the study of law, ethics, and social responsibility. Designed for students who want to understand how legal frameworks and ethical principles shape business decisions, the program develops skills in critical thinking, legal analysis, and responsible leadership, preparing students to navigate complex challenges in today’s global business environment.

Curriculum Structure

First Year

Students build a foundation in business, economics, mathematics, and communication. Courses such as BEPP 1000: Introductory Economics for Business Students introduce economic decision-making, while WH 1010: Business and You helps students understand the business environment and their developing professional roles. Students also begin their mathematics or statistics requirements and complete writing and other foundational coursework.

Second Year

The second year focuses on developing core business knowledge across areas such as accounting, finance, management, marketing, and statistics. Students also take WH 2010: Business Communication for Impact, strengthening their ability to communicate ideas effectively, while courses such as LGST 1000: Ethics and Social Responsibility or LGST 1010: Law and Social Values introduce ethical decision-making and the relationship between law, business, and society.

Third Year

Students deepen their understanding of teamwork and professional leadership through MGMT 3010: Teamwork and Interpersonal Influence while progressing through their remaining business requirements. They also begin or continue their concentration coursework, choosing from subjects such as LGST 2020: Law of Corporate Management and Finance, LGST 2080: Employment Law: Practical Considerations for Managers, and LGST 2220: Internet Law, Privacy, and Cybersecurity to explore the legal and ethical issues affecting modern organizations.

Fourth Year

The final year emphasizes advanced concentration coursework, the completion of degree requirements, and the integration of business knowledge through the Wharton Leadership Journey and senior capstone. Students can explore specialized subjects such as LGST 2200: International Business Ethics, LGST 2240: Human Rights and Globalization, or LGST 2420: Big Data, Big Responsibilities: Toward Accountable Artificial Intelligence, developing a broader perspective on responsible decision-making in an interconnected world.

Focus Areas

Business law and regulation, corporate governance and finance, business ethics and social responsibility, international business transactions, employment law, entrepreneurship, environmental law and policy, cybersecurity and privacy, human rights, negotiations, and responsible artificial intelligence.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to identify legal and ethical issues in complex business situations, apply moral principles to decision-making, interpret legal rules and precedents, evaluate corporate responsibilities toward stakeholders, and formulate logical, well-supported recommendations. The program also strengthens analytical reasoning, communication, negotiation, and leadership skills for addressing challenges in diverse business and global contexts.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The official program catalog does not specify a separate professional accreditation for the Legal Studies & Business Ethics concentration. The program provides a foundation for careers involving corporate compliance, business consulting, risk management, human resources, corporate governance, and ethical business practices. Students interested in becoming lawyers should note that this undergraduate degree is not a law degree and does not, by itself, qualify them to practise law.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The University of Pennsylvania reports that 91% of its Class of 2025 graduates were working full-time or continuing their education within six months of graduation, with a median starting salary of $103,418 among graduates employed full-time. These figures reflect university-wide undergraduate outcomes, not outcomes specific to the Legal Studies & Business Ethics concentration.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Pennsylvania, the Legal Studies & Business Ethics, BS program offers students a unique opportunity to gain practical skills that are essential for success in today’s complex legal and business environments. Through a combination of hands-on experiences, collaborative projects, and access to state-of-the-art facilities, students are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings, which is crucial for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the Legal Studies & Business Ethics program:

- Internships: Students have access to a wide range of internship opportunities in law firms, corporate legal departments, and non-profit organizations, providing invaluable real-world experience.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a staple of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and the application of legal and ethical principles to real business scenarios.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to courts, law firms, and corporate offices, allowing students to observe legal processes and business operations firsthand.

- Digital Tools: Students utilize advanced legal research databases and software, such as Westlaw and LexisNexis, to enhance their research skills and stay current with legal developments.

- Research Laboratories: The university provides access to dedicated research facilities where students can engage in projects related to legal studies and business ethics.

- Libraries: The Biddle Law Library and the Van Pelt-Dietrich Library Center offer extensive resources, including legal texts, journals, and databases, supporting students' academic and research needs.

- Institutes: Students can participate in initiatives like the Institute for Law and Economics, which fosters interdisciplinary research and collaboration between law and business.

- Networking Events: The program hosts various networking events and guest lectures featuring industry professionals, providing students with insights and connections in the field.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance academic knowledge but also prepare students for successful careers in law and business.

Choosing the Legal Studies & Business Ethics, BS program at the University of Pennsylvania means investing in a future where you can make a meaningful impact in the legal and business worlds.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The Legal Studies & Business Ethics, BS program at the University of Pennsylvania equips students with a robust understanding of legal frameworks and ethical considerations in business, preparing them for a variety of impactful careers. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as compliance officers, corporate social responsibility managers, and legal consultants, where they can influence organizational practices and policies. This program not only opens doors to immediate employment but also lays a strong foundation for future advancement in the field.

Here’s what you can expect in terms of progression and opportunities:

- University Services: The Career Services office offers personalized career counseling, resume workshops, and networking events specifically tailored for Legal Studies students. Additionally, the Wharton School provides access to exclusive internship opportunities and job fairs.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from this program have a high employment rate, with over 90% securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for graduates is around $70,000, with potential for significant growth as they gain experience.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The program benefits from strong partnerships with leading law firms and corporations, such as Deloitte and Morgan Lewis, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world projects that enhance their learning experience.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), ensuring that the education you receive meets the highest standards and is recognized globally.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to prestigious law schools, top-tier consulting firms, and influential non-profit organizations, showcasing the versatility and value of the degree.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the Legal Studies & Business Ethics, BS program, you have several options for further academic advancement. Many graduates choose to pursue a Juris Doctor (JD) degree at law school, which can lead to careers as attorneys or legal advisors. Others may opt for a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) or a Master’s in Public Policy, allowing them to specialize further and enhance their leadership skills in various sectors. The interdisciplinary nature of your undergraduate studies will provide a strong foundation for any of these paths, making you a competitive candidate in the job market or for advanced studies.

Choosing this program at the University of Pennsylvania is not just about earning a degree; it's about setting yourself up for a successful and fulfilling career.