Mar 29, 2024  
SFCC Catalog 2023-2024 
    
SFCC Catalog 2023-2024

Paralegal Studies, A.A.S.


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CIP: 22.0302
School of Business, Professional Studies and Education, 505-428-1687 and 505-428-1308

This program prepares students for employment as paralegals/legal assistants in private law firms, courts and government agencies, corporations, businesses and organizations conducting legal-related work. Students learn legal principles, legal research and writing, case management, interviewing and investigating, preparation of legal documents, law office administration and legal ethics.

NOTE: A.A.S. degrees are designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in specific occupations; they are not generally intended to transfer to four-year institutions. For more information on transfer, refer to the Transfer of Credit  section, or speak with an academic advisor.

Students can earn the following certificates related to this degree:

Students can follow the Program Map listed below to complete this program:

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 techniques for 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.

General Education Requirements: (20 Credits)


Mathematics (3 Credits)


Laboratory Science (4 Credits)


Social/Behavioral Science or Creative and Fine Arts (3 Credits)


Humanities (3 Credits MIN)


  • Any foreign language Credits: 4 Recommended

Health and Wellness (1 Credit)


Related Requirements: (9 Credits)


Total 60 Credits Min.


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