Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting) - Associate Degree
Launch your legal career with EFSC's Paralegal Studies (Legal Assisting) Associate in Science degree. Approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), this 2-year program prepares students to assist attorneys with legal research, document preparation, case management, and other essential legal services.
Through hands-on coursework and internship opportunities, you'll develop the practical skills needed to succeed in today's growing legal profession.
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).
Why Choose This Program?
- Approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
- Prepare for careers in law firms, government agencies, corporations, nonprofit organizations, and other legal settings.
- Gain real-world experience through a semester-long internship.
- Learn from experienced attorneys and paralegals who bring current industry knowledge into the classroom.
- Become 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
-
Melissa Walker, Advisor
Melbourne Campus
Building 8, Room 201B
walkerme@easternflorida.edu
321-433-5637Dr. Jacob Speicher, Program Manager
Email Dr. Speicher
321-433-5656
What You'll Learn
Students develop the legal knowledge, research abilities, and professional skills needed to support attorneys and legal teams, including:
- Legal research and analysis
- Legal writing and document preparation
- Civil and criminal law procedures
- Evidence and litigation support
- Law office operations and case management
- Professional ethics and legal standards
- Client communication and legal documentation
- Technology and research tools used in today's legal profession
Curriculum Snapshot
The Paralegal Studies curriculum combines substantive and procedural law with practical legal skills. Students learn how to conduct legal research, analyze case information, prepare legal documents, and support attorneys in a variety of legal settings. Coursework emphasizes both legal knowledge and workplace readiness, helping graduates prepare for entry-level paralegal opportunities and professional certification.
Here are some examples of the courses that are part of the curriculum:
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.
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:
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!
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.
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.
