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Cerro Coso Community College is one of only three community colleges in what the school refers to as the Kern Community College District.
The school served a small number of students when it first opened in 1973.
It quickly grew into a school that now provides educational opportunities to students across a vast 18,000-mile area of Eastern California.
The school strives to provide students with opportunities to achieve their educational goals.
It provides transfer opportunities, workforce education, and degree pathways.
One of those degree pathways is the Paralegal Studies Associate of Science (AS) degree.
The Cerro Coso Community College two-year associate degree program focuses on providing students with the knowledge and skills that they need to work as paralegals or Legal Document Assistants (LDAs).
Students complete courses that help them learn about the complex legal system.
They learn how to draft and process legal documents, how to perform legal research, how to use various investigative functions, and how to apply ethical principles in their work.
About Cerro Coso Community College
Location and Flexibility
Cerro Coso Community College serves students across a four-county area of Eastern California.
The school has five campuses and online education opportunities.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Degree Type: Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
Total Credits: 60 credit hours
Course Breakdown
The school does not seem to give a required course sequence for students who enroll in the Paralegal Studies AS program.
It does say that some courses require a prerequisite.
Students should consult an advisor about the prerequisites.
Students have two pathway options for general education courses.
Option A is for students who usually do not plan to pursue a four-year degree.
Option B is for students who plan to transfer to a four-year university program.
Some courses that students take in this program include:
- Introduction to Paralegal Studies
- Legal Research and Writing I and II
- Civil Litigation and Procedure
- Legal Ethics
- California Civil Procedure and Legal Forms
They choose nine credits from options such as Criminal Law and Procedure, Law Office Management, Legal Document Assistant, and Family Law.
Delivery Modes and Scheduling
The Paralegal Studies Associate of Science program is available in an online format.
Meet with an advisor to complete the course schedule.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable education at a cost of just $46 per unit for residents | Some employers may prefer to hire people who have a four-year degree |
| Flexible scheduling | No mention of whether an internship is required |
| A two-year program that does not require students to seek a four-year degree | Non-residents pay tuition of $382 per unit |
| All courses are conveniently offered online |
How to Apply/Next Steps
- Cerro Cosa Community College recommends that future students consult with a counselor before enrolling in a program or if they have questions.
- Explore the financial aid options. Apply for federal and state financial aid programs. Apply for scholarships.
- Click the online link to start the enrollment process.
| Cerro Coso Community College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges |
| Location | 3000 College Heights Blvd Ridgecrest, CA, 93555-9571 |
| Website | https://www.cerrocoso.edu/academics/programs/as/paralegal-studies-degree.html |
| Phone | 760-384-6100 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | 2 Years |
| Student Rating | 74 / 100 based on 3 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete this program?
The school indicates that it usually takes four semesters to complete the program.
Do I need to complete an internship?
Cerro Cosa Community College does not list a required internship on its website.
Who do I contact for help to enroll in this program?
Contact the Office of Counseling and Advising for assistance.
I’m actually looking for some reviews about this community college. I haven’t seen any but I’m scheduled for a campus tour next week. I’m really nervous but kinda excited. I hope this is the one for me.
One of the most affordable, in my opinion. I have been searching for the most affordable schools where I can really afford but with quality education. The online courses and ladderize program is a huge plus too!
I heard some success stories from this community college. I’m actually considering this too because of its affordability. I can still apply for financial aid to make things easier. I can also apply for a job while studying since they have an available online course.