Program Overview

Legal Studies Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS)

The Legal Studies Associate in Applied Science Degree (AAS) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the United States legal system. The program covers various aspects of law, including contract law, torts, real property law, and civil litigation.

College and Program Learning Objectives

The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the legal profession. Students will learn to analyze legal issues, conduct research, and communicate effectively in multiple media formats.

Course Requirements

The program requires the completion of 60 semester credit hours. The courses are divided into major core courses, liberal arts and science core courses, and free electives.

Major Core Courses

• CIS1115 Computer Applications (3 Credits): Provides an introduction to computer technology with an emphasis on applications.
• LAW1100 Introduction to Law (3 Credits): Introduces the United States legal system, examining the structure and administration of state and federal courts.
• LAW1110 Contract Law (3 Credits): Examines the common law of contracts and the Uniform Commercial Code.
• LAW2000 Career Development (3 Credits): Introduces students to the fundamentals of career development and career planning.
• LAW2200 Professional Responsibilities and Legal Ethics (3 Credits): Introduces students to the defining ethical issues faced by lawyers and the legal community.
• LAW2210 Legal Research and Writing (3 Credits): Examines legal research and writing, including traditional and computer-assisted research techniques.
• LAW2215 Torts (3 Credits): Provides an introduction to civil wrongs, including negligence, international torts, and products liability.
• LAW2225 Real Property Law (3 Credits): Explores fundamental topics related to the petition, ownership, and transfer of real property interest.
• LAW2230 Civil Litigation (3 Credits): Introduces the rules governing the civil litigation process in both state and federal civil courts.
• Legal Studies 2000-level Elective or related Social Science 2000-level Elective (6 credits): Requires Legal Studies Chair approval for Social Science 2000-level Elective.

Liberal Arts and Science Core Courses

• ENG1105 Writing and Research (3 Credits): An introduction to expository writing through a comprehensive survey of forms of composition.
• ENG2205 Writing Through Literature (3 Credits): Further develops the writing, reading, and interpretive abilities introduced in ENG1105.
• HUM2225 Introduction to Ethics (3 Credits): Introduces the study of ethics and moral philosophy, including its historical development and major figures.
• Choose one of the following Mathematics Courses:
  • MAT2211 College Algebra (3 Credits): Introduces students to solving problems by using geometric and algebraic approaches.
  • MAT2212 Quantitative Methods (3 Credits): Introduces students to the personal use of mathematics to explore arithmetic-based and algebra-based business applications.
  • MAT2215 Statistics I (3 Credits): Introduces statistical methods and procedures, including the collection, analysis, and presentation of quantitative data.
  • MAT2270 Special Topics in Mathematics (3 Credits): Involves readings and discussions, at an introductory level, organized around selected topics in mathematics.
• SOC1123 First Year Experience (3 Credits): Explores the challenges students face in pursuing and achieving a college degree.
• SOC2231 Human Relations (3 Credits): Develops the interpersonal skills necessary for successful everyday interactions.
• Mathematics/Science Elective (3 Credits)

Free Electives

• 6 credits of free electives are required to complete the program.

Program Requirements

Students must achieve a grade of C or better in both ENG1105 and ENG2205 to remain in the program. Eligibility for some internships and employment opportunities may require candidates to meet specific health requirements or pass criminal background checks prescribed by law.