Program Overview
The Legal Studies Associate Degree program at Northampton Community College equips students with a foundation in legal knowledge and skills for careers in law-related fields such as paralegal studies, criminal justice, and business law. It provides a pathway to law school for students aspiring to become lawyers or judges. The program consists of 61 credits and includes courses in legal terminology, constitutional law, criminal law, and legal research and writing.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Legal Studies Associate Degree program at Northampton Community College is designed for students aspiring to careers in law or law-related fields. It provides a comprehensive introduction to various aspects of the legal profession, including paralegal studies, social sciences, criminal justice, and business law. Students can choose elective courses to tailor their focus to specific areas of law.
Objectives:
- Equip students with a foundation of legal knowledge and skills.
- Prepare students for careers as legal assistants, paralegals, probation officers, law librarians, or other legal support personnel.
- Provide a pathway to law school for students intending to pursue a legal career.
Program Description:
The Legal Studies Associate Degree program consists of 61 credits and typically spans four semesters. It includes courses in:
- Legal terminology
- Constitutional law
- Criminal law
- Civil procedure
- Legal research and writing
- Business law
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
- Legal assistant
- Paralegal
- Probation officer
- Law librarian
- Legal support personnel
- Court reporter
- Law enforcement officer
- Jury consultant
- Pathway to lawyer / judge
Northampton Community College
Overview:
Northampton Community College (NCC) is a public community college located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including associate degrees, certificates, and workforce training programs. NCC is known for its affordability and commitment to student success.
Services Offered:
NCC provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Personalized guidance and support for academic planning and course selection.Academic Support:
Resources like tutoring, writing centers, and learning labs to enhance academic performance.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs to help students finance their education.Career Development:
Assistance with career exploration, job search, and resume building.Student Life:
Clubs, organizations, and events to foster a sense of community and provide opportunities for personal growth.Library Services:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, databases, and technology resources.Health and Wellness:
Counseling services, health clinics, and wellness programs to support student well-being.Technology Help:
Technical support and resources for students to utilize technology effectively.Student Life and Campus Experience:
NCC offers a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can participate in a variety of clubs and organizations, attend social events, and engage in extracurricular activities. The college also provides opportunities for leadership development and community involvement.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordability:
NCC is one of the most affordable colleges in the region, offering significant savings compared to other institutions.High-Quality Education:
NCC provides a rigorous and relevant curriculum, preparing students for successful careers or further education.Student Support:
The college offers a wide range of services and resources to support student success, both academically and personally.Flexible Learning Options:
NCC offers a variety of class formats, including online, hybrid, and traditional, to accommodate diverse student needs.Transfer Options:
NCC has transfer agreements with numerous four-year colleges and universities, making it easy for students to continue their education.Academic Programs:
NCC offers over 120 programs of study across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
English, History, Music, Theatre, and more.Business and Technology:
Accounting, Business Administration, Computer Science, and more.Health Sciences:
Nursing, Medical Assisting, Dental Hygiene, and more.Public Safety:
Criminal Justice, Fire Science, and more.Trades and Skilled Crafts:
Automotive Technology, Welding, and more.Other:
NCC has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students. The college also has a robust alumni network, providing opportunities for networking and career advancement.