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Paralegals perform many duties that assist attorneys.
They can usually start working as paralegals in their choice of settings after earning a two-year degree.
Some examples of where paralegals work include law firms, private practice attorneys’ offices, agencies, and corporations.
People who choose to become paralegals learn how to conduct interviews and investigations, how to draft and prepare legal documents, review legal precedents, and perform other duties that may vary by employer.
The state of California often offers a starting salary for paralegals that is above the average wage in many other states.
Salary.com indicates that the average salary for paralegals who work in California is $95,405 a year, as of December 1, 2025.
Paralegals who have experience and education are more likely to earn a higher salary.
College of the Sequoias offers an Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies program for students who want to achieve their goal of working in this exciting career field.
About College of the Sequoias
Location and Flexibility
The College of the Sequoias is in California.
The school has a campus in Hanford, a campus in Tulare, and a campus in Visalia.
The school is a two-year community college that opened its first location in 1926.
The main campus opened in 1940.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Degree Type: Associate of Science
Total Credits: 60-62 credits
Course Breakdown
Students complete 25 credit hours of Associate Degree General Education courses.
Students complete the following major courses: Business Law, Business Communications, College Keyboarding Level 2, Business English, Introduction to Paralegalism, Legal Terminology, Civil Procedures I, Legal Research and Writing, Legal Ethics, Management, and Interviewing.
The program requires students to complete seven units from these electives: Criminal Law I, Constitutional Law, Legal Aspects of Evidence, Real Estate Law, Family Law, Law and Democracy, Paralegal Work Experience – 1st Semester, Paralegal Work Experience – 2nd Semester.
Delivery Mode and Scheduling
The Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies program is offered in the in-person format.
It is not available online.
Contact the school to get help with scheduling classes.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Students earn their degree in two years. | Some employers may prefer that their paralegals have a four-year degree. |
| Access to a specially curated Paralegal Resource Library that is only available to paralegal students. | The school says that the program is not designed as a transfer program. |
| Students participate in workshops that help enhance what they learn in class. | There is no mention of the program having approval from the American Bar Association (ABA). |
How to Apply/Next Steps
Decide which term you want to enroll in at the school and in the paralegal program.
Plan your course schedule.
Explore financial aid options.
Apply for federal and state financial aid programs.
Apply for scholarships or other financial aid programs that apply to you.
Contact Information
Contact the paralegal department directly for more information about the program.
Call the program director at 559-730-3927.
You may also visit the website at https://catalog.cos.edu/areas-study/paralegal/.
| College of the Sequoias: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges |
| Location | 915 S Mooney Blvd Visalia, CA, 93277 |
| Website | https://www.cos.edu/en-us/academics/business/paralegal |
| Phone | 559-730-3700 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | No |
| Program Length | 2 Years |
| Student Rating | 80 / 100 based on 1 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies program at the College of the Sequoias?
Students complete 60-62 credit hours over two years.
What does this program prepare me to do after I earn my degree?
The school says that the program prepares graduates to enter the workforce to work as a paralegal/legal assistant.
Students are knowledgeable in entry-level paralegal skills.
They apply legal ethics skills and work within the limitations of paralegals in the state of California.
Can I offer legal advice after I earn this degree?
The school says that unauthorized practice of law violates some sections of the California Business and Professions Code.
A 2-year course is a great start to my journey as a paralegal. I’m still looking for available financial aid. It will be a tough journey but exciting once I get started. I think I will plan to work first, then continue studying for a four-year degree soon.