Paralegal Studies

The Paralegal program is offered exclusively on-line. This program includes ten courses and is completed in one year. Students take nine substantive paralegal courses and Microcomputer Applications. The program prepares qualified students to sit for the prestigious National Certification Exam, sponsored by the National Association for Legal Assistants. Note: In order to be qualified for this examination, a Bachelor’s degree is required.

The paralegal program culminates in a certificate and is open to anyone possessing a high school diploma, or its equivalent. All paralegal course credits are transferable to an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree at the University.

Majors, Minors and Certificates

Courses

PL101: Introduction To Paralegal Studies

Credits 3
This course provides an overview of the legal system and the government, as well as an historical perspective that enables the student to understand the rationale for the system’s existence and effectiveness. Ethics for paralegals and employment strategies are also explored.

PL102: Legal Research & Writing

Credits 3
This course provides students with a working knowledge of the methods of legal research, analysis and writing. Computer research and practical writing skills are taught.

PL103: Tort Law

Credits 3
This course deals with the specialized area of personal injury law including an overview of the tort system. Theoretical concepts include elements of a tort, liability, collectability, foreseeability, remedies and damages.

PL104: Probate Law

Credits 3
This course covers probate law and familiarizes the student with the documents and filings necessary to initiate and conduct litigation in the Probate Courts. Subjects covered include wills and estates, adoptions, terminations and commitments.

PL105: Litigation

Credits 3
This course covers court jurisdiction and familiarizes the student with the documents and filings necessary to initiate and conduct litigation in the court system.

PL106: Real Estate Law

Credits 3
This course covers comprehensive real estate vocabulary and related concepts. Types of ownership, various ways to acquire property, elements in real estate contracts and property zoning and requirements are covered.

PL107: Business & Corporate Law

Credits 3
This course covers the theory and applications of contracts, property, agency, employment, administrative and tax law as they apply to business organizations and corporate and partnership law.

PL108: Family Law

Credits 3
This course covers the complexities of issues that surround the family. The course begins with jurisdiction, and the role of the paralegal in the practice of family law. Issues integral to marriage, divorce, unwed families, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect and juvenile law are scrutinized.

PL109: Criminal Law

Credits 3
This course covers the processes and theories of criminal prosecution and defense from arrest through trial. Verdict and post-trial procedures are scrutinized.