Paralegal Studies

The Paralegal program prepares graduates for employment in the legal industry and for further education at a four-year college. Students gain an understanding of the law and areas of specialization while developing decision-making skills and effective research methods to solve problems.

Download a PDF with program details and course requirements

Career Outlook

The Associate in Science in Paralegal Studies program provides students with a strong foundation in the liberal arts, analytical skills, and an introduction to legal skills and practices as well as in-depth study in specialized areas of the law. These subjects provide students with the opportunity to:

• Transfer to a four-year college or university to pursue a baccalaureate degree in a related program of study. Marian Court College has a number of transfer agreements with public and private four-year colleges and universities.
• Enter the job market in many entry-level positions as paralegals or legal assistants. Among the areas hiring are public, government, and corporate paralegal and trust departments.

Program Outcomes

In addition to general education outcomes, graduates of the program will:

• Acquire and utilize the concepts of critical and analytical thinking as it relates to paralegal research.
• Be able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, using the legal vocabulary as is needed in the field.
• Understand the distinction and diversity of the different areas of the legal profession.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the federal and state court systems.
• Be able to use computerized and manual legal research techniques.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the professional code of ethics applied to the legal community.
• Develop the skills necessary to function as entry-level paralegals or legal assistants in private, government and various legal settings.