2299 - Legal Studies (Paralegal Studies) (A.S.)
Mission/Purpose
The mission of the Legal Studies (Paralegal Studies) program is to educate, train, and develop students for careers as paralegals and legal assistants. The program is intended primarily for students who desire an associate in science degree and then directly enter the workforce. The curriculum focuses on the study of legal theory and substantive areas of the law, and incorporates the practical application of law to develop the skills necessary to succeed in the profession. The program emphasizes legal research, writing, law related technology, communication, ethics, and critical thinking skills so that students enter the legal profession well prepared.
The Program
The Legal Studies (Paralegal Studies) program at Florida State College at Jacksonville has been approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) since 1997. In fact, we are the only ABA-approved program in North Florida.
The Legal Studies (Paralegal Studies) program prepares students for careers in the legal profession. The courses provide students with both the knowledge of the substantive areas of law (such as tort law, family law, real estate law, criminal law, probate, and estate planning) and the practical skills (such as conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, investigating, and communicating) needed to succeed as a paralegal or legal assistant. Employment opportunities may include private law firms, courthouses, governmental or administrative agencies, non-profit organizations, corporations, and other legal environments.
The program may provide a solid foundation for those considering law school in the future as well.
Transfer of Legal Specialty courses from other institutions must be approved by the Program Manager and may be limited by the program’s ABA approval.
This program cannot be completed entirely online. The Legal Studies (Paralegal Studies) courses that are not available online are held at Kent Campus.
For students who already hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, there is another program option available: program. The A.T.C. is a Limited Access program and applicants must meet specific criteria to be admitted.
A minimum grade of C or higher must be achieved in all professional coursework and legal studies coursework.