Associate in Science, Liberal Studies

Bedford Campus - Evening  •  Lowell Campus - Day

 Program Description:

The Paralegal Studies Transfer Associate in Science, Liberal Studies degree program is designed to prepare graduates to transfer to bachelor degree programs on a full- or part-time basis. Graduates of the program may either continue their education or enter the work force directly as a paralegal. Paralegals (legal assistants) assist lawyers in gathering and analyzing factual data, researching legal questions, and preparing legal documents. This program qualifies for MassTransfer, which guarantees credit transfer to Massachusetts state universities and the University of Massachusetts. This program has been approved by the American Bar Association.

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Career and Transfer Outlook:

Graduates of this program are prepared as paralegals (legal assistants) to perform legal work under the supervision of a lawyer. They work in law firms, social service and government agencies, banks, health care organizations, large corporations and other businesses where lawyers need assistance. Paralegal continues to be a growth occupation with high demand in this area. Graduates may enter the job market directly or transfer to a bachelor’s degree program on a full- or part-time basis.

Helpful Hints:

Successful completion of Introduction to Law (LGL101) and English Composition I (ENG101) is recommended before beginning other paralegal courses in the program. Students are required to complete at least 10 credits in the traditional classroom setting in order to graduate.

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the Paralegal Studies Transfer program will achieve the learning outcomes of the Liberal Studies degree. Additionally, graduates 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.