Mar 28, 2024  
SFCC Catalog 2021-2022 
    
SFCC Catalog 2021-2022 [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Paralegal Studies Certificate



CIP: 22.0302
School of Business, Professional Studies and Education, 505-428-1308

This program prepares students for employment as paralegals/legal assistants in private law firms, courts and government agencies, corporations, and other business/organizations conducting legal related work. Students learn law and legal principles, legal research and writing, case management, interviewing and investigating, preparation of legal documents, law office administration and legal ethics. Students seeking this certificate will be most successful in finding employment if they already have significant work experience in an office environment or prior college credits. Students without such background should consider completing the A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies instead of the Certificate program.

Students can earn the following degree and certificates related to this certificate:

Students can follow the Program Map(s) listed below to complete this certificate:

Program Learning Outcomes


Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Explain the structure of the American legal system and how legal cases are processed.
  • Analyze legal problems by conducting legal research, interpreting law, and composing persuasive written and oral legal arguments.
  • Compose basic legal pleadings, legal memoranda and correspondence related to case processing.
  • Demonstrate evidence gathering by obtaining discovery and interviewing clients and witnesses.
  • Explain the paralegal’s role in providing office support that maintains the legal field’s ethical and professional standards.

Program Requirements: (45 Credits)


It’s highly recommended that students take LEGL 111  and LEGL 121  in their first semester.

Related Requirements: (6 Credits)


  • Credits: 3
  • Choose from courses in Paralegal Studies (LEGL), Business Administration (BSAD or BUSA), Criminal Justice (CJUS), Human Services (HMSV) or Psychology (PSYC) 

Total 45 Credits Min.