Bachelor of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Paralegals are instrumental in the day-to-day operation of the many entities and offices. Law offices, corporations and governmental offices are just a few examples of potential employment for a paralegal. Organizational skills remains one of the highest attributes a paralegal can maintain. A paralegal often performs many tasks that include information gathering, client maintenance, filing systems, calendar maintenance, document preparation, pre-trial investigation, and trial preparation. In addition to those tasks, it is crucial that a paralegal has the ability to multi-task.
For many years, paralegals have assisted attorneys in every aspect of their practices, but there have been few defined standards. This is changing rapidly and Florida is one of the states leading the way.
Paralegal Program Highlights
- Approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
- Classes are taught on an annual rotation plan.
- Classes are taught exclusively by local practicing attorneys and sitting judges.
- Classes are offered in the evening to allow you to work full time.
- SPC has the only public baccalaureate program approved by the ABA in Florida.
- Admission to the program available three (3) times a year - January, May and August.
- Assignments replicate real life situations to strengthen critical thinking, oral and written communication skills and practical, ethical understanding.
- Upon graduation, students will be eligible to sit for the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) examination
- Affordable Tuition
National Statistics on Paralegals in the Workplace
The most recent paralegal study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics finds that nationally:
- Seven of 10 work for law firms; others work for corporate legal departments and government agencies.
- Most entrants have an associate’s degree in paralegal studies, or a bachelor’s degree coupled with a certificate in paralegal studies.
- Employment is projected to grow much faster than average, as employers try to reduce costs by hiring paralegals to do tasks lawyers previously performed.
- Competition for jobs should continue; experienced, formally trained paralegals should have the best employment opportunities.
Florida Bar studies have similar findings, but all of the national paralegal organizations agree that to be employable in this exciting field, your starting point is a solid paralegal education. St. Petersburg College is proud to offer its American Bar Association-approved and regionally accredited program for your consideration.
