Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting) - Associate Degree
If you want to help lawyers investigate cases, prepare legal documents, and research legal precedents, Eastern Florida State College's Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting) A.S. degree is the way to go! This two-year program, approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), can lead you to a fulfilling career in the legal field.
The demand for paralegals is increasing across the country, and this profession is expected to grow faster than other occupations. You'll find job opportunities in traditional law firms, government agencies, the corporate world, and more.
During the program, you'll have the opportunity to participate in a semester-long internship, which will give you real-world experience, boost your confidence, and help you build professional references and networks, making you more competitive in the job market.
EFSC’s Paralegal Studies A.S. degree is approved by the American Bar Association.
Upon completing this paralegal program, you'll also be eligible to take the certification examination offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).
Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting) - Associate Degree
Program Overview
- Degree Type
- Associate in Science (A.S.)
- Delivery Method
- On-Campus
- Location
- Melbourne
- Total Credit Hours
- 64
- Academic Community
- Business
- Contact Information
-
Dr. Jacob Speicher, Program Manager
Email Dr. Speicher
321-433-5656
Paralegal Studies A.S. - Course Curriculum
EFSC's program is designed to equip you with practical skills and knowledge in both substantive and procedural law so that you can excel as a paralegal. During your studies, you'll learn how to conduct legal research and improve your writing skills using a platform called Nexis Uni. This will help you efficiently locate and analyze legal information.
As you pursue your Paralegal A.S. degree, you'll specialize in one of three areas: General, Litigation, or Transactional. This allows you to focus on a specific field within the paralegal profession that aligns with your interests and career goals. Visit our course catalog to learn more about each specialization:
Paralegal Studies A.S. - Admissions Information
Eastern Florida's Paralegal Studies program is limited-access. To apply for the program, you'll need to go through a special application process, in addition to meeting EFSC's general admissions requirements.
Learn more about the application process and requirements here:
Brief Costs and Financial Aid Eligibility
Tuition and fees for in-state students are approximately $6,660, which does not include additional expenses, such as lab fees or the cost of course materials.
There are various options available to help you manage these costs. You may qualify for financial aid, scholarships, or Veterans Educational Benefits, which can all contribute to reducing the amount you need to pay out-of-pocket for this program. As a paralegal student, you're also eligible to apply for a special scholarship provided by the Brevard Chapter of the Paralegal Association of Florida.
College Courses You Would Take
You can choose to start the program in either the Fall or Spring Term. All classes are conducted in person on EFSC's Melbourne Campus, giving you the opportunity to learn in a traditional classroom setting. Here are some of the courses you'll take:
Examines the paralegal’s role in the legal field, attributes and common duties, professional and ethical standards, law office dynamics, employment opportunities, and more.
Explores processes of prosecuting and defending criminal cases: search and seizure, arrest, identification, bail, discovery, preliminary proceedings, trials, sentencing, and post-trial proceedings.
Prepares students for legal document preparation in the areas of litigation, family law, real estate, probate, trusts, and contracts, plus the utilization of law-related rules, statutes, and websites.
Teaches principles and practical applications of the Federal Rules of Evidence and Florida Rules of Evidence within the criminal and civil contexts.
Why Train to Become a Paralegal Through EFSC?
As a graduate of the program, you'll have access to job opportunities not only in law offices but also in various sectors, such as government, banking, insurance, real estate, technology, and nonprofit organizations. This broadens your career options and allows for growth and diversity.
The program's faculty members, who have extensive experience in the field of law and the legal system, are another asset. Many of them work locally as attorneys or paralegals, ensuring that you receive practical knowledge and expertise in the classroom. This hands-on approach enhances your learning experience and provides valuable insights into the realities of the legal profession.
What Students Say
EFSC Paralegal Studies Program Grad Nicole Campello '21
They are masters in their professional field with extensive experience. All my professors made sure each student grasped the material, providing extra help if needed, helping me find the self-confidence I had been lacking. I wasn't just a number in a classroom. The program has changed my life, improved my professional abilities, and provided me with the self-confidence and determination needed to become a successful paralegal. I am proud to be a graduate of the program and excited to represent our school and program after graduation!
Related Programs
As you explore the Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting) associate degree, consider other degree and certificate options, including a business-focused bachelor degree that you can earn after receiving your A.S. degree.