Paralegal Studies

Degree

Certificate (Eligible for federal aid as a stand-alone certificate or if combined with AS degree.)

Overview

The certificate in Legal Studies prepares the student for a dynamic career in the legal profession. The student will receive training in case management and legal research as well as learn how to analyze and summarize data to assist attorneys in preparation for hearings, trials, closings, corporate meetings, and other legal functions. The student will experience community learning opportunities that include job shadows, internships, and real-world projects. *Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.

Career Opportunities

A successful paralegal finds fulfillment as a contributor in resolving difficult legal situations on behalf of families, non-profit organizations, law firms, government agencies, and corporations. A variety of positions can be found in numerous industries including banking, insurance, healthcare, business, entertainment industry, real estate, and public agencies.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the certificate, successful graduates will be able to: 

  • Apply substantive and procedural law to a given set of facts, formulate arguments, and identify legal solutions.
  • Practice professional and ethical standards appropriate to the legal profession.
  • Perform legal research and summarize findings for supervising attorneys, clients, and/or the courts.
  • Follow appropriate interviewing and investigational procedures with clients, witnesses, and industry professionals.
  • Demonstrate professional skills necessary to a paralegal career, including oral and written communication and technology skills.

Course Requirements

Students are responsible to examine the course description of each course listed below for details of prerequisites, which must be satisfied before registering for the course.

Religion Course

Complete 1 course, 2 credits

Course NumberTitleCredits
REL 200The Eternal Family

2 credits

REL 225Foundations of the Restoration

2 credits

REL 250Jesus Christ & Everlast Gospel

2 credits

REL 275Teach & Doct of Book of Mormon

2 credits

Total Credit Hours:2

Certificate Core Courses

Course NumberTitleCredits
ENG 101Intro to College Writing

3 credits

PLS 101Introduction to Law

3 credits

PLS 110Legal Research/Writing I

3 credits

PLS 115Legal Research/Writing II

3 credits

PLS 120Evidence

2 credits

PLS 150Paralegal Computer Application

3 credits

PLS 160Ethics

2 credits

Total Credit Hours:19

Certificate Elective Courses

Complete 2 courses, 6 credits

Course NumberTitleCredits
PLS 130Criminal Law and Procedures

3 credits

PLS 203Intro. to Civil Litigation

3 credits

PLS 205Contract Law

3 credits

PLS 210Torts

3 credits

PLS 215Bankruptcy Law

3 credits

Total Credit Hours:6

Total Credit Hours: 27

Recommended Sequence of Courses

Depending upon preparatory courses required, additional semesters may be required to complete the program.

First Semester

Course NumberTitleCredits
ENG 101Intro to College Writing

3 credits

PLS 101Introduction to Law

3 credits

PLS 110Legal Research/Writing I

3 credits

PLS 120Evidence

2 credits

PLS 150Paralegal Computer Application

3 credits

Total Credit Hours:14

Second Semester

Course NumberTitleCredits
PLS 115Legal Research/Writing II

3 credits

PLS 160Ethics

2 credits

Elective Program Elective

3 Credits

Elective Program Elective

3 Credits

Religion Cornerstone Religion

2 credits

Total Credit Hours:13

Total Credit Hours: 27

Graduation Requirements

  • Minimum of 27 total semester credit hours as outlined
  • Grade of C or higher in all program core courses
  • Cumulative grade-point average of 2.0
  • 1 cornerstone religion course*

*Note: The one (2) credit religion course will count toward the (8) credits of required religion general education courses for students who are completing the AS degree + Specialized Certificate.