Program Description:

The Paralegal Studies Certificate program prepares graduates for employment assisting 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 changing careers. This program has been approved by the American Bar Association.

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Career and Transfer Outlook:

Paralegals 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. 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.

Helpful Hints:

Successful completion of Introduction to Law (LGL 101) is recommended before attempting other paralegal courses in the program. Students should plan on taking an internship 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.