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If you are considering a career change or trying to decide on your first career, Paralegal Studies is an option you should consider.
The pay is good, the employment opportunities are excellent, and you can choose from many different paths depending on your own strengths and interests.
You can open up a world of career options by getting your two-year Associate degree in Paralegal studies at Yavapai College.
About School
Yavapai College is a two-year community college and part of the Arizona college system.
The main campus is in Prescott, AZ, as well as the Career and Technical Campus.
Satellite campuses are located in Prescott Valley, Clarkdale, Chino Valley, and Sedona.
The Yavapai College was created in 1968 and offers many degree and certificate programs.
They provide programs that are designed for non-traditional students.
Adult learners have ample advantages and opportunities at Yavapai College.
It has been noted as one of Arizona’s most focused colleges for Paralegal/Legal Assistant programs.
Program Structure & Curriculum
The Paralegal Studies program is a two-year program.
It is divided into four semesters over two years.
It is a 61-credit course.
- 19 credits of General Education Requirements
- 27 credits of Program Requirements
- 15 credits of Elective Courses
General education requirements are:
- College Composition or Applied Communications
- College Mathematics
- Arts and Humanities and/or Social and Behavioral Science •
- Physical and Biological Science
Program-specific requirements
- Microsoft Office for Windows
- Introduction to Paralegal Studies
- Legal Computer Applications
- Ethics and the Law
- Contracts
- Legal Research and Writing I
- Legal Research and Writing II
- Civil Tort Litigation I
- Civil Tort Litigation II
Students must choose five of the possible electives:
- Criminal Law
- Criminal Procedure
- Constitutional Law
- Wills, Trusts, and Probate
- Law Office Management
- Real Estate Law
- Family Law
- Business Organizations
- Evidence
- Administrative Law
- LP Specialty Area Training
The tuition for the program is under $10,000 for residents.
Delivery Modes & Scheduling
The course is offered online with a work program in the 4th semester.
However, some general studies requirements may not be available online.
The classes are available 24 hours a day to allow students to learn on their own schedule.
Students must log in weekly to keep up with course requirements and tests.
All deadlines must be adhered to, and required materials must be submitted.
Interaction with the teacher is through online forums, emails, and assignment feedback.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The average earnings for paralegals in the United States are $66,250. | You need to be able to manage your time well so as not to fall behind. |
| The median salary in Arizona for paralegals is $44,700, but it can go higher. | There are no easy classes in this program. |
| According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the growth potential for paralegals is 10%, which is much higher than in many other fields. | If you are working another job, the stress of learning this much can be a big con. |
| The potential to work in so many different areas. | For those who can work under pressure, this can be the perfect option. |
| You must be out in a work study, and that probably isn't possible if you are already working. | |
| For those who learn better when they do in-person classes, this can be the wrong choice. |
How to Apply / Next Steps
You can apply online at https://www.yc.edu/v6/admissions/apply.html.
Students need to be US citizens.
A Social Security number must be submitted.
All students must have a valid email address that is active.
Current high school students must provide the contact information of their parents or guardians, including an email address.
You must provide your vehicle registration and driver’s license.
File your application and wait for acceptance.
Acceptance into the program is not guaranteed.
| Yavapai College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Location | 220 Ruger Rd Ste 1 Prescott, AZ, 86301 |
| Website | https://www.yc.edu/ |
| Phone | 928-776-2002 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | 2 years |
| Student Rating | 70 / 100 based on 2 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is financial assistance available?
Yes, financial assistance and discounts are offered to qualifying students.
Do I need a license to be a paralegal in Arizona?
It is not required by Arizona, which is the first state in the union to offer qualified paralegals the possibility of licensing.
Will I qualify to be a Legal Paraprofessional in Arizona?
The course meets the state education requirements.
After careful consideration, my family has decided that I should go to this college. There are several financial aids to apply for and I can even take online classes. I can also drive from home to school, so I don’t have to rent. I’m planning to apply for a scholarship also. I’m excited yet nervous.
Perseverance is the key. There might be more cons than pros, but the end game is what matters. This is only a 2-year program. I can even take part-time jobs while studying since they offer online courses. The convenience and efficiency for students might be higher this way.