This course will introduce students to the basic principles of legal reasoning — how to think like a lawyer — and provide students with an overview of the legal system. (https://summer.uchicago.edu/courses/legal-reasoning-and-institutions/)
University of Chicago Academic Excellence
Curriculum & Methodology
Program Recognition & Value
Program Statistics (The Below May Change)
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Overall: 3.8/5 – Exceptional for students seeking authentic research experience at zero cost
This program serves families seeking a structured introduction to legal thinking from a world-class institution, but who may not qualify for ultra-selective programs like TASP or RSI. The UChicago brand carries weight, and the program delivers genuine academic rigor with transferable college credit.
The real value proposition lies in the combination of academic credentialing and the SSEN pathway—completing this program opens a binding early admission option to UChicago, potentially worth far more than the program cost for students genuinely interested in UChicago. For those exploring law without committing to it as a career, the program provides substantive exposure to legal reasoning that goes beyond typical mock trial experiences.
However, families should understand this is UChicago’s “baseline” summer offering for high schoolers. While academically rigorous, it lacks the exclusivity that makes programs like Clark Scholars or RSI transformative for college applications. You’re essentially paying for a college course experience, not a competitive credential.
+ Recommended for: Students genuinely interested in law who want structured academic preparation beyond debate/mock trial. Ideal for those considering UChicago for undergraduate and seeking the SSEN advantage. Perfect for families who value institutional prestige and can afford the investment without financial strain.
× Not recommended for: Students seeking highly selective programs for college application differentiation—this won’t stand out like sub-10% acceptance programs. Not ideal for those looking for mentored research or individualized projects. Also not suitable if cost is a concern, as cheaper alternatives exist for exploring law.
Georgetown Law Academy (Summer High School Sessions)
Stanford Law & Justice Summer Program
Yale Young Global Scholars (Politics, Law & Economics)
Columbia Summer Pre-Law Intensive
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