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Program Description:

 

The Paralegal Studies Certificate program prepares students for work in the paralegal profession. Graduates assist lawyers in gathering and analyzing factual data, researching legal questions, and preparing legal documents. The program emphasizes solid academic and practice-oriented preparation. The certificate program focuses on legal courses, and is appropriate for someone who has already earned an associate degree or bachelor’s degree and is interested in pursuing paralegal-specific education or changing careers. This program has been approved by the American Bar Association.

 

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Career and Transfer Outlook:

 

Paralegals (legal assistants) may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law. They work in law firms, social service and government agencies, banks, health care organizations, large corporations and other businesses where lawyers need assistance. The paralegal field is a growth occupation where well-prepared graduates are in high demand by employers. Students enter the job market directly or continue their studies. Courses in the certificate program may be applied to the Paralegal Studies associate degree program.

 

Gainful Employment Disclosure Information: In accordance with Federal regulations, Middlesex Community College discloses information about student costs, tuitions, fees and employment statistics to various governing bodies to ensure certification and oversight. See: Gainful Employment Information

Helpful Hints:

Successful completion of Introduction to Law (LGL 101) is recommended before attempting other paralegal courses in the program. Students are encouraged to take an internship course in preparation for the workplace.

 

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the Paralegal Studies Certificate program are prepared to:

 

1. Identify sources of law in the American government system as implemented by the States and explain how law is made.

2. Work effectively as part of a team or individually, as appropriate.

3. Construct logical legal arguments in support or against specific positions and present their arguments in written and oral communications.

4. Develop, execute and implement an effective research plan to draft legal documents, including legal memoranda, court documents and forms.

5. Identify the legal and ethical principles that guide paralegal conduct and propose resolution of those ethical issues.

6. Prepare, create, and produce legal documents, to demonstrate proficiency in computer programs used in the legal profession, including spreadsheets, legal databases, and e-mail functions.