Degree Overview: Bachelor of Paralegal Studies Degree Programs
Majors Overview March 3, 2015Get information about a Bachelor of Paralegal Studies degree program and its coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor of Paralegal Studies Programs
Students enrolled in Bachelor of Paralegal Studies degree programs are provided with the knowledge and tools necessary for completing a comprehensive array of legal duties while working on the supervisory watch of an attorney.
Fundamental writing and organizational practices are explored in the curriculum, thereby ensuring that students are imparted solid written and oral communication skills, in addition to a strong grasp of office management techniques, software, and file systems. Students delve into an examination of the basics of the legal profession, underscoring various areas, including investigative methods, courtroom procedures, and litigation.
During its whole course, the program emphasizes the provision of the resources and tools necessary for completing legal writing and research. A final practicum is required to be completed by all students before they can graduate.
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a high school diploma or equivalent, in addition to successful enrollment into a postsecondary academic program.
Coursework
Coursework develops practical knowledge through a combination of practicum experiences, courses, and seminars. Apart from completing general education requirements, students will need to complete the following paralegal courses:
•Investigative practices
•Wills and estates
•Administrative litigation
•Litigation
•Tax law
•Legal ethics
•Legal writing
•Legal research
•Corporate law
Career Choices
Those who complete a bachelor’s program can seek careers aimed at increasing the productivity and effectiveness of legal services in banks, government agencies, legal departments, and law firms. They may seek career titles such as the following:
•Legal analyst
•Law clerk
•Legal assistant
•Paralegal
•Paralegal specialist
Job and Wage Outlook
A job growth rate of 17% has been predicted for paralegals and legal assistants over the 2012 – 2022 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). In 2012, these legal professionals brought home an average annual wage of $46,990 (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
An associate’s degree will suffice for paralegals or legal assistants seeking jobs in the field. Those seeking continuing education may join law school and pursue graduate-level degrees as a first step towards becoming lawyers.
