Paralegal Studies: Associate of Applied Science Degree

An Associate of Applied Science degree in Paralegal Studies is offered for those students who wish to pursue a course of study emphasizing basic paralegal skills. Credits earned in this program will apply toward a Bachelor of Science degree in Paralegal Studies described above. Students can often earn the bachelor's degree in six additional quarters.

Program Goals

The program will:

• Provide students with fundamental knowledge of substantive and procedural law.
• Develop the critical-thinking skills of students to enable them to analyze problems by identifying and evaluating alternative solutions.
• Prepare students to perform legal research using both traditional and electronic resources.
• Develop the oral and written communication skills of students.
• Provide students with the knowledge of the ethical guidelines governing the conduct of attorneys and paralegals.
• Encourage students to participate in continuing education activities and maintain memberships in professional organizations.
• Measure key student learning outcomes continuously and identify and implement opportunities for improvement.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the program will:

• Demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of substantive and procedural law.
• Analyze issues using legal research methodology.
• Communicate effectively through speaking and writing.
• Model professional behavior in accordance with ethical guidelines governing the conduct of attorneys and paralegals.