Paralegal Studies, Associate in Applied Science
Program Overview
The Paralegal Studies program is a two-year associate degree designed to train students to work as paralegals under the supervision of attorneys. The program provides a solid foundation in legal research, writing, and various legal topics, equipping graduates to perform essential tasks within the legal field. Graduates can pursue careers in law firms, corporate legal departments, and other legal settings, assisting attorneys with a range of responsibilities. The program offers unique opportunities such as legal externships, mentorship programs, and professional development workshops to enhance students' skills and prepare them for success in the workplace.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview
Paralegal Studies is a two-year, associate degree program designed to train students to work as paralegals under the supervision of attorneys. The program provides a solid foundation in legal research and writing, contracts, torts, criminal law, and property law, equipping graduates to perform various tasks within the legal field.
Objectives:
Upon completing the Paralegal Studies program, graduates should possess the knowledge and skills to:
- Conduct legal research and analyze legal issues
- Draft legal documents, including memoranda, briefs, and contracts
- Assist attorneys with trial preparation and proceedings, including case investigation, witness interviews, and evidence collection
- Maintain and organize case files
- Understand the ethical responsibilities of paralegals
- Utilize technology to enhance legal work efficiency
Program Description:
The Paralegal Studies program comprises a combination of core courses and electives. Core courses cover essential legal topics such as legal research and writing, contracts, criminal law, property law, and civil litigation, providing a comprehensive understanding of the legal system and its processes. Electives allow students to specialize in areas of law that align with their interests or career aspirations.
Outline:
Course Structure
The Paralegal Studies program consists of four semesters, with each semester comprising a combination of core courses and electives totaling approximately 15-16 credit hours. The program's structure provides a systematic progression of knowledge and skills, building upon foundational concepts in each subsequent semester.
Core Courses:
- Introduction to the Paralegal Profession
- Legal Research and Writing I and II
- Contracts Law
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Real Estate Law
- Civil Litigation and Tort Principles
- Civil Litigation and Tort Applications
- Paralegal Experience and Legal Ethics or Paralegal Practicum and Legal Ethics
Electives:
Students are required to select six credit hours of PLG electives from the following list:
- Family Law
- Estates, Trusts, and Wills
- Administrative Law
- Business Organizations
- Bankruptcy Law
- Labor and Employment Law
- Elder Law
Assessment:
Assessment Methods
The Paralegal Studies program employs various assessment methods to evaluate student learning and progress throughout the program. These methods include:
- Exams and Quizzes: Written exams and quizzes assess students' understanding of course content and their ability to apply legal concepts to practical scenarios.
- Written Assignments: Students complete written assignments, such as legal memoranda, briefs, and case summaries, to demonstrate their research, writing, and analytical skills.
- Presentations: In some courses, students may be required to present their research findings or case analyses to the class, showcasing their communication and public speaking abilities.
- Participation and Class Engagement: Active participation in class discussions and activities contributes to students' overall assessment and demonstrates their engagement with the course material.
Grading Criteria
Student performance in the Paralegal Studies program is evaluated based on a combination of factors, including:
- Exam and quiz scores
- Written assignment quality
- Presentation effectiveness
- Class participation
- Adherence to assignment deadlines and program requirements
Teaching:
Teaching Methods
The Paralegal Studies program utilizes a range of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and accommodate the demands of the legal profession. These methods include:
- Lectures: Instructors present core concepts and legal principles through lectures, providing students with a structured overview of the subject matter.
- Class Discussions and Case Analyses: Students participate in lively class discussions and engage in case analyses, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and legal reasoning.
- Simulations and Role-Playing: Hands-on exercises and simulations allow students to apply their knowledge in realistic legal scenarios, mimicking real-world legal practices.
- Guest Speakers: Legal professionals and industry experts are invited to share their experiences and insights with students, providing practical perspectives on the legal field.
Faculty:
The Paralegal Studies faculty consists of experienced legal professionals and educators with expertise in various legal disciplines. Their combined knowledge and practical experience ensure students receive high-quality instruction that aligns with current industry trends and practices.
Unique Approaches:
- Legal Externship: Students have the opportunity to gain practical work experience through an optional legal externship program. Externships provide valuable hands-on experience in law firms, legal departments of corporations, or government agencies.
- Mentorship Program: Students can benefit from a mentorship program that connects them with experienced paralegals or attorneys who provide personalized guidance and support throughout the program.
- Professional Development Workshops: The program offers professional development workshops to enhance students' skills in areas such as legal writing, research, technology, and ethics, preparing them for success in the workplace.
Careers:
Career Paths:
The Associate of Applied Science degree in Paralegal Studies prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in the legal field. Graduates may work as paralegals in:
- Law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Insurance companies
- Title companies
- Legal service companies
- Government agencies
- Non-profit organizations
Job Responsibilities:
As paralegals, graduates can expect to perform a variety of tasks, including:
- Conducting legal research
- Drafting legal documents
- Preparing for trials
- Organizing and maintaining case files
- Assisting attorneys with client communication
- Managing administrative tasks
Employment Opportunities:
The Paralegal Studies program aims to prepare graduates to enter the legal workforce with confidence. The program's reputation and industry connections enhance students' job prospects, increasing their likelihood of securing rewarding paralegal positions upon graduation.
