Paralegal Studies, A.S.

The Paralegal Studies program is a practice-oriented course of study designed to prepare students as paralegals. As the legal industry experiences transformation due to economic and technological changes, opportunities for accomplished and technically-savvy paralegals have increased significantly. Paralegal students receive education in many different facets of law, including the use of computers, legal databases and alternative dispute resolution. The Paralegal Studies Program combines academic rigor with legal and technical competencies to develop well-rounded legal professionals. Our graduates pursue successful careers as paralegals in legal, corporate, non-profit, or government organizations, and many continue to law school.

In 1998, the Paralegal Studies program was approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Some courses are available via distance education, but in accordance with ABA requirements, a minimum of 10 semester credits of legal specialty courses must be taken in a traditional classroom setting (face-to-face). Paralegals are prohibited from the practice of law except when allowed by law or court rule.