Program Overview

Opportunities in the Paralegal field are plentiful. Experienced, formally trained Paralegal Studies graduates with strong research, writing and computer skills have the best job prospects according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The Paralegal Studies program prepares students to perform substantive and procedural legal work under the supervision of a lawyer or judge in law firms, corporations, legal aid offices or government agencies. The program may also serve as a foundation for students who may later pursue baccalaureate or professional degrees in Paralegal Studies or Law.

MCC offers both a Paralegal Studies Certificate and an Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal Studies degree. The AAS in Paralegal Studies is designed for individuals who have not yet earned a college degree. The Paralegal Studies Certificate is reserved for those who have earned a college degree with 18 credit hours of general education coursework.

Admissions Requirements

The AAS in Paralegal Studies and the Paralegal Studies Certificate courses require:

• Intermediate mathematical, reading and writing skills as identified by specific scores obtained on the ACT, COMPASS or other equivalent tests.

To enter the Paralegal Studies Certificate program, students must also show the following:

• Completion of an associate degree or bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Completion of 15 credit hours, or equivalent, of general education coursework.

If any general education, support courses, associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree were taken at another institution, an official transcript from that college must be submitted to the Admissions office with a request for it to be reviewed for the Paralegal Studies Program.

For more information, visit: www.mchenry.edu/paralegal

The primary purpose of an Associate in Applied Science degree is to prepare students for employment. The AAS degree is not designed specifically for transfer; however, there are opportunities to apply some coursework or the whole degree to a bachelor’s degree program. For more information, see an academic advisor and the department chair.

Paralegal Studies, AAS Sample Semester Plan

---

---