Program Description

The Paralegal (PARLG) program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) and is a member of the Amer-ican Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE). Paralegal is one of the fastest growing occupations in the nation. The paralegal is a paraprofessional who has legal training and provides legal services under the supervision and direction of an attorney or as otherwise authorized by law. Paralegals work in law firms, as well as government and corporate offices. Duties may include drafting pleadings, summarizing depositions, indexing documents, conducting legal research, interviewing clients and witnesses, and assisting at trial. Entry-level positions, especially if you have no prior law office experience, require proficiency in word processing and related clerical skills. Being an effective problem-solver and having the ability to get along well with others are essential to a paralegal’s success. Because this is a highly competitive field, you may need to conduct job searches beyond the local legal community. Some students may wish to continue their education toward a bachelor’s degree at a four-year college or university to enhance their employment opportunities. Each four-year institution determines transferability of courses. Students will need to consult their advisor about course transferability.

The Paralegal program prepares you for the paralegal profession through the study of law, developing thinking and writing skills, and the acquisition of related occupational skills. Students entering the program may include people already working in law offices who wish to upgrade their skills, as well as those with no law-related background. You may choose to work toward a degree or certificate, or take individual courses.

Entry into the Program

Please apply to the Admissions Office. Prior to entry, students must see an advisor for appropriate course place-ment. Students are generally admitted to the Paralegal program Fall Quarter. However, if you have relevant law-related experience, equivalent coursework, or have or are near completion of a bachelor’s degree, you may be admitted at other times with the permission of the Department Chair. For more information, contact the Department Chair or the Admissions Office.