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Paralegals assist lawyers by completing various legal tasks.
They prepare documents, investigate facts, and review legal precedents.
The Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal Studies program at Phoenix College gives students the skills and knowledge to do these things and many other duties that are the responsibility of paralegals.
The Phoenix, AZ school offers a strong two-year Paralegal Studies program that prepares students to work at law offices, government agencies, corporations, or other legal settings.
Students gain meaningful skills throughout the program, through coursework and the capstone project.
They learn about the role of paralegals, their boundaries, and ethics.
About Phoenix College
Location and Flexibility
Phoenix College is a Maricopa Community College.
The school is in Phoenix, Arizona.
It first opened in 1920, with a vision of a welcoming place of inclusion for students from all backgrounds.
It continues to be a place of inclusion today, serving about 17,000 students.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Total Credits: 63–74 credits
Course Breakdown
- Year 1, Term 1: Computer Usage and Applications or Survey of Computer Information Systems, First-Year Composition, Introduction to Law, Macroeconomic Principles or Microeconomic Principles, or American National Government, or International Relations, or Introduction to Sociology or Introduction to Psychology, Ethics and the Administration of Justice, or United States History 1945 to the Present, or Introduction to Philosophy, or Introduction to Logic, Introduction to College, Career, and Personal Success.
- Year 1, Term 2: College Mathematics or College Mathematics with Review, College Critical Reading and Critical Thinking, The Paralegal Profession, Civil Procedures I, Legal Writing, Legal Research.
- Year 1, Term 3: Interpersonal Communication or Small Group Communication, First Year Composition, Civil Procedures II, Legal Research, Analysis, and Writing.
- Year 2, Term 1: Biology Concepts or Environmental Biology, or Chemistry and Society, Ethics and Professional Practice, Tort Law, Litigation Techniques.
- Year 2, Term 2: Paralegal Studies Elective, Contract Law, Business Organizations, Paralegal Studies Portfolio Capstone.
Delivery Modes and Scheduling
The Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies program is offered on the main campus.
Students who want to enroll in the program must submit a Verification of Eligibility form to be formally enrolled in the program.
The school allows students to enroll during any term.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Students complete the program in two years, not four years. | Whether students can complete some courses depends on the term in which they enroll. |
| Approved by the American Bar Association, Standing Committee on Paralegals | Students need to verify the general electives and paralegal electives that they need before enrolling in any elective. |
| Affordable tuition | Some employers may require their paralegals to have a four-year degree. |
| Transfer opportunities | Higher tuition for non-resident students |
How to Apply/Next Steps
- Plan your schedule by deciding which term to enroll in.
- Contact an advisor to help with your enrollment.
- Apply for financial aid. Make sure that you apply for federal and state financial aid programs. Apply for scholarships and other financial aid opportunities.
| Phoenix College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission |
| Location | 1202 West Thomas Road Phoenix, AZ, 85013 |
| Website | https://www.phoenixcollege.edu/degrees-certificates/behavioral-science-and-human-services/paralegal-studies-3384-aas |
| Phone | 602-285-7777 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | 2 Years |
| Student Rating | 80 / 100 based on 3 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many credits do I need to complete for this program?
The paralegal studies program consists of 63 to 74 credits.
Can I enroll in this program on my own?
Students need to submit a Verification of Eligibility form, meet with an academic advisor, and complete prerequisites.
Is this program available to part-time students?
Students may enroll as part-time or full-time students.
I visited this college two years ago with my dad for my brother’s quick tour before the start of the school year. I took a brochure and I got really into the paralegal program. I think it is very challenging. I’ve been thinking about whether I should go here because it’s near home, plus I can apply for financial aid.
I’ve been hearing a lot of successful stories from this college. My friends and I are actually considering this college. We’d stay at an apartment together. I’m the only one taking up paralegal studies to be like my grandma. I’ve been looking forward to this journey soon.
Glad to see that this college offers online classes for the flexibility of students. It is quite affordable too! Students even have an option to take full-time or part-time classes. I liked that concept for even productivity and the chances of its students.