Online Associate of Science in
Paralegal Studies
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Complete an Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies at ½ûÂþÌìÌÃ
½ûÂþÌìÌÃ's Associate of Science (A.S.) in Paralegal Studies, offered through the School of Graduate and Professional Studies (SGPS), provides aspiring paralegals and legal assistants with the skills and knowledge to serve the community with integrity. Developed in collaboration with the Lancaster Bar Association, this innovative program follows a stackable certificate model. The curriculum features online courses, some with synchronous components, for a dynamic learning experience. Students can complete a full 64-credit associate degree or choose from three 21-credit certificates, gaining proficiency in legal research, writing, ethical standards, and technology skills for legal settings.
Program Outcomes:
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of key legal concepts, principles, and procedures across various legal practice areas covered in the program.
- Develop advanced legal research and analytical skills, enabling the ability to locate, interpret, and apply relevant legal authorities to specific cases and scenarios.
- Exhibit proficiency in legal writing and communication, including the drafting of legal documents, memoranda, and correspondence with clarity, accuracy, and adherence to professional standards.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical and professional conduct in the legal field, understanding the importance of confidentiality, integrity, and maintaining high standards of professionalism.
- Apply legal knowledge and skills in practical scenarios, including drafting legal documents, participating in simulated legal proceedings, and effectively collaborating with legal professionals.
- Master the use of technology tools relevant to legal practice, including legal research databases, case management systems, and other software essential for paralegal work, while gaining a strong foundation in utilizing AI-powered legal research and analysis tools.
Online
Program Format
with some synchronous components
Offered in
collaboration with the
Lancaster Bar Association
Career Opportunities in Paralegal Studies
The legal field is dynamic and ever-evolving, with a growing demand for well-trained paralegals who can support legal teams with expertise, efficiency, and ethical standards. The A.S. in Paralegal Studies at ½ûÂþÌìÌà is designed to prepare students for a variety of roles, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and technological proficiency required in today's legal environments. The program capitalizes on the experiences of Central Pennsylvania's top legal experts and addresses cutting-edge legal issues like Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) and Artificial Intelligence. Students can stack together the three undergraduate certificates plus a one-credit internship below to complete the A.S. or choose from any individual certificate.
The Paralegal Fundamentals Certificate provides students with the fundamental knowledge, research, and communication skills needed to pursue a future career as a paralegal. This 21-credit certificate includes courses in legal research and writing, civil litigation, criminal law, and more.
The Advanced Paralegal Studies Certificate extends the knowledge gained from the Paralegal Fundamentals Certificate by immersing students in advanced Civil Litigation principles, Family Law dynamics, Personal Injury Law intricacies, and Wills, Trusts, Estates, and Elder Law complexities. This 21-credit certificate equips aspiring paralegals with the specialized knowledge and practical skills to assist attorneys effectively in these specialized legal domains.
The Business Foundations for Paralegals Certificate aims to give prospective paralegals a comprehensive grasp of business and corporate law principles. Covered topics encompass real estate law, business and tax law, intellectual property rights including NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), artificial intelligence, corporate governance, technology law, and employment regulations. Through this 21-credit certificate, students gain essential insights into the legal frameworks governing various aspects of business operations, enabling them to provide valuable support to legal practitioners in diverse corporate environments.
Understand Tuition Costs and Explore Scholarship Opportunities
The A.S. in Paralegal Studies is priced at $400 per credit. Scholarships and financial aid are available to make your ½ûÂþÌìÌà SGPS education even more affordable. Below are just a few of the scholarships and programs available to students:
- Alumni Scholarship: 15% tuition discount, available to Etown alumni.
- Affinity Partner Scholarship: 15% discount, offered to employees of organizations partnered with ½ûÂþÌìÌà SGPS.
- Jay Fellowship Referral Program: This is a referral program that benefits both current students/alumni and prospective students. When a student or alum refers a new student, both the referrer and the referred student receive a complimentary credit for their program of interest.
Tuition and fees are reviewed and subject to change annually.
Tuition & AidÌýAssociate Paralegal Studies Requirements
The Paralegal Studies program at ½ûÂþÌìÌà requires a total of 64 credits, including a practical 1-credit internship. Students are encouraged to begin with the foundational undergraduate certificate in Paralegal Fundamentals. Progressing further, they are presented with two additional certification options for further specialization. By choosing to complete all three certifications, along with the required 1-credit internship, students are then poised to be awarded an Associate degree.
Courses are delivered in an online format with some synchronous components, following a 3-credit model with each course spanning 5 weeks. The entire associate program can be completed within 75 weeks.
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Application Requirements & Process
To enter either an associate or bachelor's program, you will need to:
- Have graduated from high school or earned a GED.
- Have writing ability sufficient for success in an accelerated academic program. You will be asked to write an essay that demonstrates your ability.
- Have the time to devote to your coursework. Course requirements in a five-week accelerated class can be as high as 20 hours per week.
- Successful completion of some college coursework is strongly suggested prior to entering an accelerated program, but it is not required.
- ÌýContact or meet with our admissions staff for guidance and to find out more information.
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ÌýComplete the .
- Submit official transcripts (college or high school/GED if no college coursework), and a current resume.
- Submit a double-spaced essay adhering to English usage standards, addressing your understanding of a rigorous accelerated program, your strategy for managing time demands, and your personal and professional goals.
- ÌýAfter submitting your application, the SGPS Team will review it and make an admissions decision.
- ÌýIf accepted, you will receive an initial offer letter via the applicant portal, which you must accept to proceed with matriculation.
- ÌýIf there are any questions or concerns, the admissions team will contact you for further discussion.
