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With the main campus in Yuma, Arizona Western College (AWC) offers an excellent Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Paralegal Studies degree.
During the program, students will learn practical legal skills that will prepare them for entry-level employment.
Students learn how to draft legal documents, business law, torts, and legal theory to provide them with a foundation of legal knowledge.
About Arizona Western College
Location & Flexibility
Located in Yuma, AWC supports the La Paz and Yuma counties by offering over 170 certificates and degrees across a range of technical, career, and academic programs, including non-credit courses for personal enrichment, customized training, and professional development.
AWC has 10 locations with different degree specialties across the two counties.
Mission & Relevance
AAS in Paralegal Studies graduates are given basic knowledge in legal skills to prepare them for entry-level work in a government agency, corporation, law office, or other entity.
The skills gained from the program also provide competency in technological applications, quantitative analysis, critical thinking, and communication.
Program Structure & Curriculum
Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Total Credits: 65
Course Breakdown
- First Semester
- Bankruptcy
- Family Law
- Tort and Insurance Law
- Legal Writing
- Introduction to Law
- Second Semester
- Intro to Composition
- Business Law for Paralegals
- Criminal Trial Procedure
- Legal Procedures
- Introduction to Paralegalism
- Third Semester
- Math for the Applied Sciences
- Freshman Composition
- Legal Interviewing, Investigating & Report Writing
- Legal Research
- Probate
- Fourth Semester
- American Politics
- Criminology
- Introduction to Ethics
- Administrative Law
- Real Estate Transactions
- Select a Natural Sciences course
Delivery Modes & Scheduling
Although the school recommends that students start the program in the Fall Semester, it is not required.
Students may also begin in the Spring Semester for extra flexibility.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| AAS credits can be used towards a bachelor’s degree. | Lower-than-usual graduation rate of around 25%. |
| AWC’s AAS in Paralegal Studies program requires an internship for hands-on training. | There can be fierce competition for internships depending on availability. |
| Students can fully enroll online, in a hybrid format, or only in-person. | This program is not the best starting point for those who want to continue to acquire a law degree because the curriculum does not develop critical thinking skills enough. |
| The capstone course prepares students for the NALA Certified Paralegal exam. | |
| The program is approved by the American Bar Association. | |
| The program is a budget-friendly option. |
How to Apply / Next Steps
Since the AWC Office of Admissions prefers students to apply online, the following steps are related to this application method.
Step One: Create an Account
The first step is to create a new admissions account in the AWC admissions portal.
Step Two: Complete the Application and Submit Required Documents
Next, log in and fill out the online application form, then upload the required documents.
These include proof of citizenship via a driver’s license or state identification card and high school transcripts.
Step Three: Check Your Emails
Once the application is submitted, you will receive your AWC student ID and one with your student email address, plus a link to set your passphrase.
Step Four: Register for Classes
Most students are accepted into AWC, so once you are approved, you can start registering for classes.
It’s important to consider how you plan to pay for the education.
| Arizona Western College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission (HLC) |
| Location | 2020 S. Avenue 8E Yuma, AZ, 85365 |
| Website | https://www.azwestern.edu/ |
| Phone | +1 928-317-6000 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | 2 Years |
| Student Rating | 80 / 100 based on 6 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can AWC’s AAS in Paralegal Studies be taken online?
Yes, the program can be completed fully online.
The school utilizes the Canvas platform to offer flexible assignments and instruction, while preparing students for entry-level work as a paralegal.
How long does it take to complete AWC’s AAS in Paralegal Studies?
The completion time is around two years with full-time study.
Those who wish to go part-time due to personal or work commitments can expect three to four years, depending on the number of classes taken each semester.
Full-time students can expect to spend up to 15 hours per week on the assignments and coursework, not including class time.
Does AWC offer a certificate in Paralegal Studies?
Yes, for those who want to fast-track entering the workforce, a certificate is a good option.
It’s important to note that many larger firms prefer at least an AAS, if not a bachelor’s degree, in a legal-related field.
My friends and I were set to go to UCLA but due to family circumstances, I had no choice but to go to Arizona Western College. It’s really reassuring to read a lot of success from this school. I will do my best and graduate on time so I can finally get a job (hopefully in the city).
Came across this blog and something in me wanted to pursue my dream to become a paralegal. AWC is a great choice. Only an hour away drive from home. I don’t have to rent. Very affordable and if I wanted a bachelor’s degree, I can easily take that option too.
What caught my attention was how practical the coursework sounds. Classes like legal writing, criminal trial procedure, and legal research seem really useful if someone wants to work in a law office. The internship requirements also makes it feel more hands-on instead of just classroom learning.
You could have better employment opportunities. I’m speaking based on experience! You actually have transferable skills. Make sure to be ready for your future real work tasks because legal environments could cause burnout too.
Went to this school a few years ago. That was even before the pandemic. They now offer more flexible pathways. Great school indeed.
This is my first time reading a wholesome blog about my alma mater after a long time. It brings back all the memories. Cherish your school days as a paralegal because it’s gonna be real hard in the real world.