<p>Berkeley changed this practice pursuant to a consent decree after that article was written. They do appear to take “degree of difficulty” into account in some respects now:</p>
<p>“There is no disadvantage if you began your college studies in a community college program before transferring to a four-year institution. However, we do want to be assured of your potential and success in a rigorous university setting, so make the most of your years at the four-year school.”</p>
<p>Here’s some info from Columbia University’s law school:</p>
<p>Q: What undergraduate major(s) should I pursue?
A: Columbia Law School does not require or prefer any specific major or minor. A recent review of our entering class finds the following undergraduate majors substantially represented:</p>
<p>25% Political Science/Government
10% Literature/English
12% History
14% Economics<br>
9% Social Sciences (other)
7% Science/Engineering/Mathematics
Other concentrations include, but are not limited to, anthropology, art history, finance/accounting/business, humanities, international relations, language studies, philosophy, policy studies, psychology and religion.</p>
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<p>Q: From what undergraduate institutions do you generally accept students?
A: The Admissions Committee is dedicated to admitting and enrolling students from a true cross-section of colleges and universities throughout the country and the world. In fact, there are over 200 undergraduate institutions currently represented in our J.D. program. </p>
<p>Regardless of institution(s) attended, the Committee carefully considers:</p>
<p>Rigor, breadth, and depth of curriculum
Grade trends over time (upward or downward)
Institutional grading trends (grade inflation)
Special honors, awards, and fellowships
Letters of recommendation
Professional and extracurricular experiences
Community service and political activity</p>