Legal Studies, A.S.

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The associate degree program in legal studies prepares students to work as paralegals in law firms and legal departments or in law-related positions in corporations, banks, and local, state, and federal governments. A paralegal performs specifically delegated substantive legal work under the supervision of an attorney who is responsible for the paralegal’s work. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law. Students may also continue their studies toward a bachelor’s degree.

Students are required to complete 60 credits, including the University Core Requirements for the associate’s degree and the following courses:

Required Courses

LS 100 - Introduction to Legal Concepts
LS 201 - Legal Ethics & Prof Responsibility
LS 238 - Civil Procedure I
LS 239 - Civil Procedure II - Litigation
LS 240 - Legal Research and Writing I
LS 241 - Legal Research and Writing II
LS 330 - Legal Investigation
Plus three legal studies electives
PL 222 - Ethics
CO 100 - Human Communication
or
E 230 - Public Speaking & Group Discussion
one elective

Paralegal Studies Certificate Requirement

Successful completion of the requirements for an associate degree in legal studies includes the courses required for the paralegal studies certificate described in the Institute of Law and Public Affairs section here . The certificate is awarded via the Institute.