Paralegal
Program Type: Associate In Applied Science
Program Level: UG
Program Duration: 23 months
Program Contact: Tracy Evans
Time: Day
Program overview
Paralegals are found in all types of organizations, but most are employed by law firms, corporate legal departments, and various government offices. In these organizations, they can work in many different areas of the law, including litigation, personal injury, corporate law, criminal law, employee benefits, intellectual property, labor law, bankruptcy, immigration, family law, and real estate. According to the US Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook (2017), the median income is approximately $48,810 including bonuses. The projected growth for job opportunities is projected to increase 21-35% through 2024.
Entry Requirements
To see a list of entrance requirements for this program, please check the FDTC Course Catalog.
Student Learning Outcomes
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of what a paralegal is, what a paralegal does, where paralegals work, what is expected of a professional paralegal, and the fields where paralegals are utilized.
- Locate and analyze relevant primary and secondary legal sources in electronic and print media, computer assisted research (Westlaw or Lexis), and legal writing.
- Utilize the critical thinking abilities necessary to operate in the legal profession.
- Use oral and written skills to communicate with participants throughout the legal process. Know the differences between legal writing and other forms of writing.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the significant similarities and differences among areas of civil, criminal, and administrative law.
- Demonstrate an ability to work in a legal environment.
- Be familiar with the common software programs used in law offices and criminal justice agencies.