About the Program
The Division of Social Sciences sponsors the Reuben V. Anderson Pre‑Law Program. This rigorous, highly selective, life‑changing, interdisciplinary program is designed for incoming freshmen who are interested in attending law school, or pursuing careers within the legal profession, or who simply desire to learn more about the enduring impact of the law on the moral, social, legal, and economic institutions of our society and how it affects people from every socioeconomic corner. The program is also open to Tougaloo sophomore students who possess the same commitment to interdisciplinary study through the lens of the law. There is no required major for acceptance into the program, nor do we recommend any single major as best suited for success as a law student or attorney. Rather, the Reuben V. Anderson Pre‑Law Scholars Program fosters the pursuit of academic excellence across disciplines.
Upon admission into the program, students are awarded a stipend and are expected to embrace the privileges, challenges, and responsibilities of participating in a variety of required courses, programs, seminars, symposia, lectures, and internships related to law.
Through the Reuben V. Anderson Pre‑Law Program, students will have a chance to develop an accurate picture of the realities, rewards, and challenges of being a lawyer in today’s society.
Program Pillars
Legal Foundations
Gain grounding in fundamental legal concepts and techniques through courses, lectures, and workshops led by experienced faculty and practitioners.
Professional Pathways
Explore the varieties of professional roles open to lawyers and build a network that supports your academic and career goals.
Scholar Stipend
Pre‑Law Scholars receive a stipend of $2,500 per academic year, distributed in eight monthly installments, supporting participation in program activities.
Mission
The mission of the Reuben V. Anderson Pre‑Law Program is to equip Tougaloo students with all tools necessary to become high‑performing, logical‑thinking, socially responsible graduates who can intellectually contribute at the highest level of discourse to various schools of jurisprudential thought and, if so desired, successfully matriculate through a law school program or any post‑graduate study of their choice.
Requirements to Apply
Eligibility
Sophomore students who have completed 24 semester hours at Tougaloo College with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.
Students should have an interest in pursuing a law‑related career, or clearly demonstrate interest in learning how the law affects everyday life. Students who do not meet the required ACT/SAT score must obtain permission from the Program Director to apply.
Note: Scholarships/stipends are awarded based on availability of funds.
How You'll Engage
Scholars are expected to participate in required courses, co‑curricular programming, seminars, symposia, lectures, and internships related to law.
Program Benefits
What You’ll Gain
Common Questions
- How do TV portrayals of lawyers compare to real‑life practice?
- How much of my legal career will involve Constitutional issues?
- Does success hinge on being the “smartest person in the room”?
- Will I make a lot of money if I go to law school?
- What’s meaningful about being a lawyer?
Internships
Experience Matters
To gain real‑world insight into the day‑to‑day work of lawyers, students may participate in specially arranged full‑time or part‑time internships. These are paid and unpaid, optional, limited in number, not guaranteed, and assigned on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Interested students should proactively express interest to the Program Coordinator and Advisor. Availability can vary with market conditions.
Sample Placements
- United States House of Representatives
- Office of the U.S. Attorney, Southern District of Mississippi
- Office of the Attorney General, State of Mississippi
- Hinds County District Attorney’s Office
- ACLU of Mississippi
- Mississippi Volunteer Lawyers Project (MVLP)
- Private law firms & nonprofit organizations
The nature of each internship is determined by the host organization. Students should be prepared to work diligently; the goal is to replicate post‑graduate professional expectations.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Apply to the Reuben V. Anderson Pre‑Law Program or contact us to learn more about eligibility, timelines, and upcoming events.