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Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies

 Return to APUS Catalog | Associate

The Associate of Science Paralegal Studies degree is designed to prepare students for paraprofessional positions in the legal field. Graduates may use their degree to obtain an immediate position in the field, or they may choose to pursue further study. Student pursuing an AS degree in Paralegal Studies must obtain specific skill sets before being eligible for graduation. In addition to becoming familiar with basic principles of the law, students will also acquire analytical, technical, and communication skills

Program Objectives:

In addition to the institutional and general education level learning objectives, the Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies also seeks the following specific learning outcomes of its graduates. With reference to each of the respective areas of paralegal studies, graduates in this degree program will be able to:

  • Apply legal research methods and techniques that are used in the practice of law.
  • Develop skills in legal reasoning, in identifying and effectively using legal resources and in writing legal documents.
  • Evaluate the importance of secondary sources in legal research.
  • Describe the primary rules and sources and roles of each in legal research.
  • Distinguish how advice, persuasion, and advocacy enter into legal research.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the nature and function of law, and the principles and concepts as they relate to the paralegal and apply critical legal thinking and analytical skills to resolve typical situations or facts.
  • Comprehend and describe what a paralegal is and how he/she fits into the legal system.

Degree Program Requirements
Required Course - 3 semester hours
General Education Requirements (38 semester hours)
English Composition - 6 semester hours

Social Sciences - 6 semester hours

Science - 8 semester hours including the required 1 hour labs

Mathematics - 3 semester hours

History - 6 semester hours

Humanities - 3 semester hours

Literature - 3 semester hours

All literature courses require successful completion of EN101 - Proficiency in Writing or EN102 - Effectiveness in Writing


Political Science - 3 semester hours
Core Requirements (24 semester hours)
Elective Requirements (0 semester hours)
There are no elective requirements for this degree.



Total Hours = 65

 Return to APUS Catalog | Associate

AMU is a member institution of the American Public University System (APUS), which is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association and nationally accredited by the Accrediting Commission, Distance Education and Training Council.
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