Associate in Paralegal Studies Degree, Requirements, Tuition Cost, Jobs and Salary

What is Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies?

An associate degree in Paralegal Studies is a two-year undergraduate degree worth 60 credits or more, depending on the institution. It gives a foundation in legal systems and its processes. It also introduces the students to indulge in legal research and learn the principles of law. It provides an opportunity to gain a degree quickly and start working in the paralegal profession. Students can also opt for higher studies and enroll in a 4-year undergraduate degree program, directly in the third year. The transfer of credits is possible however eligibility and requirements differ from each institution. 

Some features of this course are:

• Provides intellectual rigor to apply at making critical judgments directed at legal causes and issues.

• Applies research and reasoning to create correct responses for legal problems in all contexts.

• It lays an emphasis on ethical practices in the paralegal profession with the reference to many issues of legal and social nature.

• It demonstrates a wide understanding of the paralegal concepts and professions, the legal system etc.

• Reflects upon the capabilities, responsibilities and performances of an individual.

• Improves the written and speech communication with reference to paralegal and other legal and law based professions. 

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Why an Online Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies 

An online degree is relevant as it offers a degree and education without going to the college. The course can be attended at any time as it is available 24 hours for all throughout the week. The total cost gets reduced as well as the cost of going to the college gets cut. The online degree offers interactive sessions to discuss, debate or clear the doubts about the course or otherwise. The students can learn at their pace and it saves time as well. It offers accelerated courses and an up-to-date curriculum.

Eligibility Requirements for Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies 

• A complete application -Students must complete the application form and then submit it as it would not be considered otherwise.

• Passing Grades in necessary courses- Students must pass in all the subjects they’ve taken up in school. Passing Grades are necessary to enrol in any course.

• Minimum GPA- The students are supposed to have a minimum GPA.

• Credits- To major in that area of study, the course must be completed with 60-75 credits (varies for different institutions).

• Financial Assistance- Fees should be paid on time and financial aid must be taken if required.

• A high school graduate- All the students are supposed to provide the documents of their graduation from an accredited high school or an equivalent degree.

• A GED certificate is a must.

Subjects

• Legal Research - It is concerned with figuring out the sources of law and identifying relevant information to support a legal decision.

• Legal Analysis and Writing - It helps the students to analyze legal matters and draft correct documents.

• Administrative Law - It covers the laws governing the administrative institutions or agencies. It is a branch of public law.

• Criminal Law - The subject makes one familiar with the criminal offences and laws surrounding them. Matters such as homicide, theft, attempt to commit crimes etc are covered in this subject.

• Torts - It is basically a civil wrong which may cause harm to other people, intentionally or unintentionally. The purpose is to compensate for the harm caused and how there can be tort recoveries.

• Business Organizations and Corporate Law - It focuses on the various regulations in the corporate and business sectors and laws prevailing there. Examination of bankruptcy, insurance law, trusts etc are done here.

• Intellectual Property - Intellectual Property rights are taught and some areas which are covered are the trademark, copyrights, patents, designs and many others.

• Litigation and Trial Practice - The litigation practices for paralegals are covered in this subject from the pre-investigation till the appeal. It gives the steps about assisting the attorney at every step.

• Paralegal Today - Students will learn all about the profession’s past, present and the coming future. It gives the education options and techniques to the students and teaches those work ethics and responsibility.

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Curriculum

Core Papers