Colleges

Degree Programs

Overview

The Legal Studies programs at South University give you the opportunity to become part of the exciting field of legal and paralegal studies. The Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies degree program online provides an excellent foundation for those who are seeking employment and advancement in the legal profession.

South University is one of the few schools approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) to offer legal studies in an online format. Here's why this makes South University's legal studies online program worth considering. According to the ABA:

"The principal objective of the American Bar Association program of approving paralegal education programs. is to foster high quality paralegal education and training and the development of educational standards."

"The guidance and direction of the ABA. has led to the development of superior paralegal education programs designed to raise the competence of those individuals who assist lawyers in the delivery of legal services."

Source: American Bar Association, Standing Committee on Paralegals, Division for Legal Services, General Approval Process Information, on the Internet at http://www.abanet.org/legalservices/paralegals/process.html.

Upon final review, the ABA gave its approval to offer 16 legal specialty courses from its Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies program in an online 5½-week delivery format. The remainder of the legal specialty courses must be taken on campus at South University - or at an institution approved by South University that's convenient for you. As a student in South University's Legal Studies program, you will have the opportunity to:

• Be prepared to seek employment or advancement in your career as a paralegal with the solid foundation of a bachelor's degree.
• Be prepared for challenging assignments, including investigating cases, researching the law, and preparing documents for litigation or business transactions, while working under the supervision of an attorney.
• Learn how the law applies to real-life problems through practical coursework that stresses critical thinking and a systematic approach to problem solving.
• Apply legal theories and substantive law into practical applications in a law office or at any organization involved with legal processes.
• Enhance your critical and analytical thinking skills, conduct computerized legal research and develop the written and organizational skills required to effectively manage legal cases.
• Refine your interpersonal and communication skills and learn how to establish strong professional client relationships.
• Learn how to conduct effective witness interviews.

Graduates will be prepared to enter the workforce as paralegals and legal assistants. These roles assist attorneys with the preparation of criminal and civil cases by interviewing clients, investigating facts, drafting legal documents, researching law, and assisting the attorney at trial. Paralegals perform specifically delegated substantive legal work for which a lawyer is responsible, but they cannot give legal advice, set fees, or represent clients in court.

Employment Outlook for Paralegals and Legal Assistants

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, "Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 22 percent between 2006 and 2016, much faster than the average for all occupations." "Despite projected rapid employment growth, competition for jobs is expected to continue as many people seek to go into this profession; experienced, formally trained paralegals should have the best employment opportunities." "Although many employers do not require such approval, graduation from an ABA-approved program can enhance employment opportunities."

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Paralegals and Legal Assistants, on the Internet at http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos114.htm.

Academic Requirements

To be admitted to the Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies program online at South University, the prospective student must be a high school graduate OR have the equivalent GED (General Education Development certificate).

After meeting this qualification, applicants must:

1. Achieve a satisfactory score on either the SAT I, the ACT, or the CPTs OR
2. Meet the eligibility requirements for a transfer student.

For additional information, view the Undergraduate Admissions Requirements.

Get started

Set a course for your own career growth by enrolling in the Legal Studies program at South University. Click here to get started.