Program Overview
Paralegal Associate in Science Degree Program
Related Degrees & Certificates
- CA Certificate of Achievement
- Litigation | 18 units
- Paralegal | 27 units
Career Opportunities
Students who earn the Paralegal Studies A.S. degree are entitled to be called paralegals under California law. This degree prepares students to be paralegals, prepares students who want to pursue a higher education degree related to law and the legal system, prepares students for law school, and prepares foreign attorneys for a Master of Laws (LLM) program, which must be completed before taking California Bar Exam. Career Opportunities: The demand for skilled paralegals is high, and employment opportunities exist in law firms, trial technology companies, technology companies, biotech companies, consulting firms, insurance companies, or in state or federal courts. Graduates are prepared for positions including but not limited to paralegals, law clerks, trial clerks, legal assistants, legal secretaries, or trial technology paralegals.
Program Learning Outcomes
Students completing this program will be able to:
- Use effectively both book and electronic legal research tools, and to identify and use primary and secondary law sources.
- Use California superior court judicial council forms, and at least one software program containing such forms.
- Understand, follow and apply ethical rules for attorneys and paralegals and to identify potential ethical issues in the legal environment.
Program Overview
The Paralegal Program at Cañada College was developed in cooperation with the San Mateo County Bar Association and the San Mateo County Legal Secretaries Association to train personnel to assist attorneys in both civil and criminal matters. Instruction centers on assisting the attorneys in interviewing clients and preparing legal documents. Courses must be evaluated by a letter grade, not by the Pass grade.
Requirements
AS Degree Requirements Major: Core and Selective Requirements
Complete Core Courses, 18 units
- CBOT 435 | Spreadsheets | 3 units
- LEGL 241 | Law Office Management | 3 units
- LEGL 249 | Introduction to the Legal System | 3 units
- LEGL 250 | Legal Research and Writing | 3 units
- LEGL 252 | Civil Litigation and Trial Preparation | 3 units
- LEGL 261 | Legal Ethics | 3 units
Selective courses, choose a minimum of 9 units from the following:
- BUS. 201 | Business Law | 3 units
- LEGL 251 | Torts | 3 units
- LEGL 254 | Family Law | 3 units
- LEGL 260 | Advanced Legal Research and Writing | 3 units
- LEGL 263 | Intellectual Property Law | 3 units
- LEGL 264 | Contracts | 3 units
- LEGL 267 | Animal Law | 3 units
- LEGL 272 | Immigration Law | 3 units
- LEGL 276 | Electronic Litigation and Investigation | 3 units
- LEGL 672 | Work Experience Education: Internship | 1 - 3 units
Total Required Major Units: 27
And required General Education coursework and electives as needed to meet the minimum 60 units required for the Associate degree.
Please refer to the AA/AS Degree Requirements for more information.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Overview: The Paralegal Program at Cañada College provides training for students who wish to become paralegals. The program was developed in collaboration with the San Mateo County Bar Association and the San Mateo County Legal Secretaries Association.
- Objectives: The program prepares students for employment as paralegals in law firms, trial technology companies, technology companies, biotech companies, consulting firms, insurance companies, or state or federal courts. Graduates may hold positions including paralegals, law clerks, trial clerks, legal assistants, legal secretaries, or trial technology paralegals.
- Description: The program focuses on providing students with the skills and knowledge necessary to assist attorneys in both civil and criminal matters. Students will learn how to interview clients, prepare legal documents, use electronic and print research tools, and maintain ethical standards.
Outline:
- Program Content: The program includes core courses in law office management, introduction to the legal system, legal research and writing, civil litigation and trial preparation, and legal ethics. Students will also choose selective courses from a range of options such as business law, torts, family law, intellectual property law, and electronic litigation and investigation.
- Structure: The program consists of 27 units of coursework. Courses must be evaluated by a letter grade, not by the Pass grade.
- Course Schedule: Course schedules may vary. Students should consult with the department chair to create a personalized schedule.
Assessment:
- Assessment Methods: Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, including exams, quizzes, assignments, and case studies.
- Criteria: The criteria for assessment will vary depending on the specific course. However, all assessments will be designed to measure student learning of the course objectives.
Teaching:
- Teaching Methods: The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, discussions, case studies, and simulations.
- Faculty: The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty with expertise in law and legal practice.
- Unique Approaches: The program includes several unique approaches to teaching paralegal skills, such as the use of simulations and practical experience.
Careers:
- Career Paths: The Associate in Science (A.S.) degree in Paralegal Studies qualifies graduates to work as paralegals or in other related legal roles.
- Opportunities: Graduates may work in law firms, government agencies, corporations, and non-profit organizations.
- Outcomes: Many graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers as paralegals or in other legal professions.
Cañada College Summary
Overview:
Cañada College is a community college located in Redwood City, California. It offers a wide range of academic programs leading to associate degrees and certificates, as well as transfer opportunities to four-year universities. The college emphasizes student support services and provides a welcoming and diverse campus environment.
Services Offered:
Cañada College offers a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Guidance on course selection, program planning, and transfer options.Financial Aid:
Assistance with scholarships, grants, and loans.Career Services:
Resources for career exploration, job search, and internship opportunities.Student Life:
Clubs, organizations, and events to enhance the campus experience.Disability Services:
Support for students with disabilities.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.Basic Needs Assistance:
Information and resources for food, housing, and mental health support.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Cañada College provides a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and events, including:
Athletics:
Intercollegiate sports teams and recreational activities.Student Government:
Opportunities for student leadership and advocacy.Cultural Events:
Performances, exhibitions, and workshops showcasing diverse cultures.Social Activities:
Gatherings, parties, and outings to foster a sense of community.Key Reasons to Study There:
Free Tuition:
Cañada College offers free tuition for eligible students.Diverse Programs:
A wide range of academic programs to choose from, including associate degrees and certificates.Strong Transfer Opportunities:
Excellent transfer rates to four-year universities.Supportive Environment:
Dedicated faculty and staff committed to student success.Engaging Campus Life:
Opportunities for extracurricular activities, leadership development, and social connections.Academic Programs:
Cañada College offers over 100 academic programs, including: