Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies

Effective May 20, 2012, this program is no longer available for future enrollments

The Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies degree (ASPS)is designed specifically to develop the organizational, research, writing, critical thinking, and communication skills necessary to paralegal work in addition to providing a foundation of legal knowledge. Students will be trained in the skills and knowledge required for providing quality legal assistance to the increasing number of organizations and law firms needing such services.

Outcomes:

  • Apply the ethical obligations of paralegals

  • Identify resources for continuing professional development and lifelong learning

  • Apply fundamental legal concepts governing substantive and procedural areas of law

  • Create and execute a legal research plan

  • Compose organized and well-written correspondence, memoranda, briefs, and other legal documents

  • Employ effective written and oral communication skills

  • Utilize technology and applications commonly found in legal practice

  • Complete assigned tasks in accordance with applicable office procedures and practices

Degree Requirements

Courses: Preparatory

ENGL080English Composition Preparation

4

IT 080

MATH 060

MATH 080

Courses: General Education

ENG111English Composition I

4

ENG112English Composition II

4

HIST210World History and Culture I

4

INTD111Creating Academic and Professional Success

4

IT105Information and Technology Literacy

4

LITR220Values in World Literature

4

MATH143Business Algebra

4

Total Credit Hours:28

Courses: Core

ACCT201Accounting I

4

CJUS365Criminal Law

4

MGMT115Introductory Business Practices

4

PBAD200American Government

4

Total Credit Hours:16

Courses: Concentration

PALS200Introduction to Paralegal Practice & Ethics

4

PALS215Legal Research & Writing

4

PALS216Legal Technology

4

PALS225Civil Litigation I

4

PALS226Torts

4

PALS230Contract Law

4

PALS250Commercial Law

4

PALS265Property / Real Estate

4

PALS275Family Law

4

PALS285Trusts, Wills, & Estates

4

PALS325Civil Litigation II

4

PALS330Paralegal Studies Practicum

4

Total Credit Hours:48

ENGL112, English Composition II, is a prerequisite for all 300 and 400 level courses. Exceptions to this policy must be approved by the appropriate Director of Education, Dean or Chair.

Total Credit Hours: 93

Locations

  • Sioux Falls