Paralegal Studies

A Career Where You Can Help Others

 

Southwestern College offers the following American Bar Association (ABA) approved programs: Paralegal Studies Associate’s Degree, Paralegal Studies Associate’s Degree-Bilingual, Paralegal Studies Certificate of Achievement, and Paralegal Studies-Bilingual Certificate of Achievement. These programs are approved to be completed online. Students are required to take a minimum of nine semester credits of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction (which includes courses completed through synchronous videoconferencing format). The department ensures compliance with this requirement through the scheduling process.

Southwestern College paralegal graduates work in a variety of legal settings in the greater San Diego area as well as in our local Chula Vista and South Bay service areas. Our graduates also work in courthouses, government offices, and in the private and public sectors throughout the county.

Program Awards

Our Paralegal Studies programs are included in the Business field of study and offer these awards:

Award	Location	Estimated Completion	Program  Map
Associate in Science Degree: Paralegal Studies	Chula Vista	4 Semesters
Associate in Science Degree: Paralegal Studies - Bilingual	Chula Vista	5 Semesters
Certificate of Achievement: Paralegal Studies	Chula Vista	2 Semesters	Paralegal Studies
Certificate of Achievement: Paralegal Studies - Bilingual	Chula Vista	3 Semesters

Paralegal Program Goals:

· Prepare students for employment in the legal field as paralegals and in administrative positions where a knowledge of the legal system is utilized.

· Educate its students to perform effectively in a variety of legal settings, including, but not limited to those in our local service area, and to adapt to changes in the legal environment.

Paralegal Studies Program Objectives:

· Apply legal research, analytical, written, and oral communication skills in the legal setting.

· Understand and uphold the ethical and professional rules for paralegals.

· Understand California’s rules and regulations for the paralegal profession.

· Gain familiarity with relevant computer software and online resources commonly used in law offices.

· Understand the basic concepts of procedural and substantive law.

· Understand the basic concepts of state and federal court systems.

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