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Students who graduate from a paralegal program can have an excellent future working in various legal settings.
The Cuyamaca College Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies program is a strong program that prepares students to work in the public or private sector.
They learn the skills that they need to work in the field and earn a good salary.
The school is in El Cajon, California, in San Diego County.
People who enroll in the 60-credit Paralegal Studies program have the option of enrolling for the fall term or the spring term.
Students in the Cuyamaca College Paralegal Studies program gain the analytical skills, the written skills, and the abilities that they need to become trained professionals who ethically conduct themselves.
They can choose one of several optional specializations to focus on their interests and career goals.
The specializations include Criminal Law, Civil Litigation, Administrative and Public Law, Family Law, Elder Law, and Estate Planning and Probate.
About Cuyamaca College
Location and Flexibility
Cuyamaca College is in El Cajon, California.
The school offers this program at the campus location.
Some courses are available online.
The easy accessibility is likely to appeal to many students looking to enroll in a paralegal studies degree program.
Mission and Relevance
The Paralegal Studies AS degree program is designed for students who want to start working as paralegals right away and for those who are considering attending law school.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Degree Type: Associate of Science
Total Credits: 60 credit hours
Course Breakdown
- Year 1, Semester 1: Comprehensive Word Level I or Comprehensive Word Level II, Comprehensive Word Level III, or Using Microsoft Outlook or Essential Excel, Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Academic Reading and Writing, six units of General Education courses.
- Year 1, Semester 2: Civil Litigation Practice and Procedures, General Education Science course, Recommended Paralegal Course, 6 Units General Education.
- Year 1, Semester 3: Business Law, Cultural Diversity requirement.
- Year 2, Semester 1: General Education course, Legal Research and Writing, Bankruptcy Law, four units of general education courses.
- Year 2, Semester 2: Computer Assisted Legal Research, Paralegal Elective, Business Communication, Elective.
Delivery Modes and Scheduling
Students have the option of starting the program in the fall semester or the spring semester.
Classes are primarily offered on campus.
The school offers a few paralegal studies courses online.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Two-year degree program, rather than a four-year degree or law school | A few Paralegal Studies courses are offered online |
| Option to choose one of several specializations to align with interests or career goals | An Associate of Science degree may not be enough education for some legal careers |
| Transferable credits to a bachelor’s degree program | Internship placement depends on availability |
How to Apply/Next Steps
- The school strongly recommends that future students set up a meeting with a counselor to create a comprehensive education plan.
- Decide if you want to choose a specialization option
- Explore financial aid options. Apply for scholarships and for both federal and state financial aid programs.
| Cuyamaca College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) |
| Location | 900 Rancho San Diego Parkway El Cajon, CA, 92019 |
| Website | https://www.cuyamaca.edu/academics/academic-and-career-pathways/business-and-professional-studies/paralegal-studies/index.php |
| Phone | 619-660-4000 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | 2 Years |
| Student Rating | 60 / 100 based on 2 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the American Bar Association (ABA) approve the Paralegal Studies program at Cuyamaca College?
The Cuyamaca College Paralegal Studies program is an ABA-approved program.
What is CAPS?
CAPS stands for the Cuyamaca Association of Paralegal Students.
It was created by paralegal studies majors who wanted to assist in the program’s development and growth.
How long does it take to complete this program?
Students complete the program in five semesters.
I can still transfer my credits taken into a bachelor’s degree. I will really save up for that moment. Having an ABA approval is also an advantage when it comes to an internship and job opportunities. I will also learn more about CAPS to see how they can help with my career growth.
I’ve been considering a paralegal degree as my first step in law school. My family wanted to support me but I wanna do it my way. The two-year program might go by really quickly and I still have time to think if I still wanna pursue a bachelor’s degree. I hope there’s an available scholarship, as I will be moving to CA soon.