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Situated on California’s beautiful central coast, Cuesta College (CC) is an award-winning institution providing high-quality and accessible education to all.
CC offers a strong paralegal degree program that will give students the tools they need for success in entry-level positions at a law office, financial institution, or government facility.
About Cuesta College
Location & Flexibility
Located minutes from the beach and the vibrant towns of Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo, CC offers over 200 degrees and certifications, so students can find a program that fits their career and education goals.
The school has three in-person locations and online learning opportunities for the ultimate flexibility.
Mission & Relevance
The school focuses on helping new students, transfer students, or those looking to switch careers in reaching their personal, professional, and academic goals.
Many students take core classes at CC and transfer to their neighboring school, California Polytechnic Institute, or launch directly into a career after graduation.
Program Structure & Curriculum
Degree Type: Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
Total Credits: 60 credits
Course Breakdown
Required courses:
- Academic Reading and Writing
- Business Communications
- Business Law
- Civil Procedure and Litigation
- Cultural and Civic Engagement
- Current Ethical Issues for Paralegals
- Ethnic Studies
- Introduction to Law or
- Legal Aspects of Evidence
- Legal Research and Writing
- Introduction to Paralegal Studies
- Mathematical Concepts and Quantitative Reasoning
- Natural Sciences
- Oral Communication and Critical Thinking
- Paralegal Internship
- Technology in the Law Office
- Wellness and Lifelong Development
Choose two elective courses:
- Business Organizations
- Estate Planning and Administration
- Family Law
Delivery Modes & Scheduling
Students can begin the program in either the Fall or Spring Semester.
Also, a limited number of courses are available in the Summer Semester for those who wish to graduate earlier.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| A combination of affordability and speed for quicker entry into the workforce. | Internships are based on availability within a competitive student market. |
| Delivers the core skills required for entry-level work in various legal fields. | The program focuses on federal law, so those who wish to work in California may wish to take additional state-specific law courses. |
| Requires an internship that provides excellent experience for students. | |
| There are plenty of opportunities for transfer students to ease into the program. | |
| The program offers an excellent foundation and experience for those who wish to continue their education in law school. | |
| The school makes on-campus networking, career counseling, and tutoring easily accessible. |
How to Apply / Next Steps
Step One: Create an Account
Since the school prefers candidates to apply online, you must first create an account through the OpenCCC system, which links all California Community Colleges.
Step Two: Complete the Application
Next, follow the steps to complete the online application form, which requires information about your educational goals and background.
Also, make sure to upload the required documents, like identification and high school transcripts.
Step Three: Check Your Email for Acceptance
Although most students are accepted, it’s important to regularly check your email for acceptance into the Paralegal Studies program.
There is no timing estimate as approvals depend on the number of applicants.
Administrators advise students to apply early.
Step Four: Determine Your Financing Options
Those who need financial assistance should consider FAFSA, student loans, grants, and scholarships.
Contact Information
To call the school, dial 805-546-3100.
| Cuesta College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) |
| Location | 3000 Education Drive San Luis Obispo, CA, 93405 |
| Website | https://www.cuesta.edu/ |
| Phone | 805-546-3100 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | 1 Year |
| Student Rating | 80 / 100 based on 2 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CC’s Paralegal Degree Program prepare students for any certifications?
CC’s Paralegal Degree program is compliant with the California Business and Professions Code mandates for paralegal employment.
The program was created to assist students with preparing for the National Association of Legal Assistants certification.
It is also a first step toward the Commission for Advanced California Paralegal Specialization certification.
How long does CC’s AA Paralegal Degree Program take to complete
Given that it’s an associate degree, the program requires a two-year commitment to complete when enrolled in full-time study.
Those who are attending part-time can expect the program to take around four years, depending on the number of classes scheduled per semester.
What are the core skills I will learn in the Paralegal Degree Program?
Students can expect a heavy emphasis on client communication, case management, document preparation, legal research, and ethics.
After weighing the pros and cons, I finally decided to continue my application at Cuesta College. It is only a one-year program but I have an option to pursue my law school dream. They have an active community that helps students like me transition from internships, networking, and more job opportunities.
I’m looking for more reviews about this college. The spring semester is coming near and I need to go to a campus tour to help with my decision making. Has anyone took any specialization? The program’s forte is Federal Law which is my preference too.