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Degree Overview: Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) Degree in Legal Office Administration Technology

Majors Overview December 14, 2013

The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) program in office technology or legal office administration can supply student with the technical and communication skills needed to organize a law office. Community colleges usually offer these programs and focus on administrative procedures, introductory legal studies, and computer literacy.

A.A.S. Programs in Legal Office Administration Technology

An Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree program that covers legal office technology can convey to students how to use software and current information systems to run a workplace electronically. This curriculum combines computer programs, like Microsoft Office, with customary administrative principles. Students will be taught how to work with electronic spreadsheets, manage databases, and prepare documents, while becoming more knowledgeable in the basics of legal terminology and business law. A GED or high school diploma is usually the educational requirement for an Associate of Applied Science degree program.

Coursework

Coursework related to general office administration concepts is commonly offered by programs; these include business English and keyboarding, in addition to subjects pertinent to legal environments. Coursework may include subject areas such as:

•Business communications
•Information and records management
•Spreadsheet applications
•Legal transcription
•Word processing
•Legal research
•Database management

Job and Wage Outlook

A job growth of 18% has been predicted for legal secretaries during the period from 2008 to 2018 (source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)). This optimistic growth projection is based on the assumption that jobs formerly assigned to professionals and managers are likely to be done by these professionals. On the supervised watch of a paralegal or lawyer, the assistance of secretaries and administrators may be called for legal research and verification of information discovered in legal briefs. Their assistance may also be sought for the preparation of the paperwork for subpoenas, summonses, court motions and legal complaints. In May 2010, legal secretaries earned an average annual wage of $43,270 (BLS).

Continuing Education Choices

Some associate’s degree programs allow students to transfer credits earned to bachelor’s degree programs to enhance their career prospects. Professionals may also seek to gain additional knowledge of the law might by earning a Bachelor of Science in Legal Assistant/Paralegal Studies or a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies.

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