Carnegie Mellon University

Pre-Law Advising Program

The Pre-Law Advising Program has three focal points, each of which corresponds to the common sequence of phases for those who develop an interest in, and ultimately apply to, law school.

I have a tentative interest in law, but have not definitely decided to apply to law school.

Common questions include:

  • What do lawyers do?
  • What role(s) does law play in our society, economy and world?
  • What is law school like? How is it different from college?
  • What is the range of law school options?

I have definitely decided to apply to law school, but I don't know when I will apply. Or, I am not yet at the point when I will be applying.

Common questions include:

  • What options and opportunities in and out of school are available and recommend to prepare for applying to law school?
  • What could, or should, I be doing now, and in the time leading up to actually applying to law school?

I have definitely decided to apply to law school, and now is the time when I intend to apply.

Common questions include:

  • What does the application process entail?
  • What are the components of a law school application?
  • How do I finance the costs of law school?

Getting Started: Meet with the Pre-Law Advisor

Douglas Coulson, the pre-law advisor, is available for 30-minute in-person and virtual meetings with interested students. 

In-person meetings are held in Baker Hall 254G, but you may alternatively request a video meeting when booking. When booking, please briefly describe what you would like to discuss, including your anticipated application cycle, if known, and any relevant deadlines.

Online booking closes 72 hours before each appointment. If no available time works for you or your question is time-sensitive and no appointment is available before the relevant deadline, email dcoulson@andrew.cmu.edu with a brief description of your reason for meeting and two or three possible meeting times.

If you would like Professor Coulson to review a résumé, personal statement, or any other materials beforehand, please email them at least three business days before your scheduled meeting.

Make an Appointment

Facts & Figures

In One Recent Academic Year,

Of All CMU Law School Applicants:





26%

Were Undergraduate Seniors





74%

Were CMU Alumni

Of the CMU Alumni Applicants:

50%

Graduated From CMU Less Than Three Years Earlier

50%

Graduated From CMU More Than Three Years Earlier