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An associate degree in paralegal studies provides entry into a growing career field and ongoing opportunities for professional advancement and personal satisfaction. Of the various two-year degree programs, it ranks near the top for benefits returned on a student’s investment.
AAS in Paralegal Studies at Utah Career College
Utah Career College offers the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies degree. The program focuses on practical training. Students practice every task expected of an entry-level paralegal and acquire general legal knowledge. Students also complete general education coursework that provides a base for future studies and enhances critical thinking and interpersonal skills.
Career opportunities for the associate degree paralegal
A graduate of the paralegal associate degree program will be qualified for positions in law firms, corporate legal departments, the military, the courts, insurance companies, public service agencies and government agencies.
Under the direction of an attorney, the paralegal may draft motions, contracts and other legal documents; assist the attorney at trial; interview clients; conduct investigations; research legal issues; and handle general administrative duties.
Core requirements of the Associate in Paralegal Studies program
A student can take technical and legal courses required for the Associate in Paralegal online* or at UCC campus locations in West Jordan (a Salt Lake City suburb), Orem and Layton. Core requirements (60 credits) include instruction in skills and legal knowledge in the following areas:
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Paralegal externship: hands-on in the workplace
The capstone course for the associate degree program is the Paralegal Externship, a 90-hour internship that provides a student with the opportunity to integrate skills and knowledge learned, as the student performs legal work under the supervision of an attorney. Roughly one-half of these internships result in offers of permanent employment.
General education requirements for the AAS in Paralegal degree
The student will complete 30 credits in courses in communications, interpersonal relations and electives in humanities, natural sciences and social sciences.
Career services and job search preparation
Career services at UCC include classroom instruction, during which a student prepares a resume and cover letter, practices interviewing techniques, and learns job search strategies. The student also receives personal career placement assistance. Placement rates for graduates of the UCC Associate in Paralegal degree program are excellent.
Building on the associate degree
All credits from the AAS in Paralegal Studies degree program transfer smoothly to the Bachelor in Paralegal Studies degree program at UCC. The associate degree also serves as a base for continued studies in the liberal arts.
More information
If you have any questions about paralegal studies at UCC, or are interested in enrolling in the associate degree program, please contact UCC Admissions. A representative will be happy to help you.
*Students must take 15 credits of their legal specialty courses in a traditional classroom setting at UCC. All remaining legal, technical and elective courses may be taken online.