Paralegal Studies: Associate in Applied Science (AAS)  (5706)

If you’re interested in legal concepts and enjoy researching different legal topics, a career as a paralegal may be a good fit for you. Our Paralegal Studies program prepares you for entry-level employment in the legal field or helps you earn the credits needed to transfer to a four-year school. After completing our program, you’ll receive your Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in paralegal studies, and the American Bar Association (ABA) approves this program.

What can I do with this degree?

After completing our program, you’ll be eligible to work as an assistant in a law library, or a paralegal in private, corporate and governmental law practices or title insurance companies. It is very important to note that as a paralegal, you may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by the law. Instead, you will work with lawyers to perform a variety of tasks including:

• Drafting memorandums, briefs and litigation documents
• Maintaining and organizing files
• Performing legal research
   

What is the average salary?

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What is HACC’s program like?

Throughout our program, you will develop the skills you need to successfully work as a paralegal. This includes lbeing taught how to provide legal services while under the direction of an attorney. You’ll explore private, corporate and governmental law concepts.

By completing our Paralegal Studies Program, you will be able to: 

• Demonstrate a mastery of legal terminology, substantiative and procedural law and ethical rules
• Conduct legal research and prepare legal memoranda and briefs
• Draft correspondence and litigation documents (complaints, answers, motions, discovery documents)
• Draft a variety of legal documents including, but limited to, bankruptcy schedules, divorce complaints, property settlement agreements, support calculations, wills, inheritance tax returns, corporate filings, fictitious name filings, deeds, HUD-1 settlement sheets
• Identity and analyze the ethical issues that may arise for the paralegal
• Write and speak effectively
• Develop critical thinking and communication skills through the appreciate accomplishments in the arts and sciences

This program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
 

What classes will I take?

• View summaries of every course at HACC by browsing our class schedules database.

• Review our program guide (pdf) to view a list of required courses, recommended course sequencing and program competencies.

• Browse our advising checksheet (pdf), which is also an excellent tool to help you personalize your course load each term and manage your overall advancement through our programs.

 

Can I transfer my credits to a four-year college or university?

Yes! Although our program is designed to lead you directly into the workforce, opportunities are available for you to transfer your credits to four-year institutions. Our two-year programs are designed to transfer to a wide variety of colleges and universities with no loss of credit. However, each college has its own unique program. We encourage you to select a four-year school as soon as possible. This will allow you to learn the transfer college’s program requirements so you can take the proper classes at HACC.

Where can I complete this program?

You can complete this program at our Harrisburg and Lancaster campuses.
 

Does HACC offer scholarships?

Yes! HACC has approximately 200 scholarships available through the HACC Foundation. Learn how to apply by visiting hacc.edu/Scholarships.
 

When can I apply?

You can enroll in our spring, summer and fall classes anytime by applying online. When you submit your application, please include the specific program code 5706 to ensure you apply for the correct associate degree program.
 

How can I learn more?

We are here to help you start your journey towards an enriching legal career. You may request more information online or contact Jason Nielsen, our interim department chair, or an admissions counselor to learn more!