Paralegal Studies, AAS

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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.

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 Pathway

Paralegal Studies, AAS Degree Requirements

Curriculum: OCC 208

General Education

Arts, Humanities, Social Science, Behavioral Science, Mathematics, Physical Science, Life Science: 3 Credit Hours

Select One Arts, Humanities, Social Science, Behavioral Science, Mathematics, Physical Science, Life Science Course

Total General Education: 15 Credit Hours

Program Core: 30 Credit Hours

CDM 110 - Computer Literacy for Windows 3 Credits
PAR 101 - Introduction to Paralegal Studies 3 Credits
PAR 102 - Legal Research and Writing 3 Credits
PAR 103 - Civil Litigation and Discovery 3 Credits
PAR 110 - Law Office Technology 3 Credits
PAR 120 - Tort and Insurance Law 3 Credits
PAR 121 - Contract Law 3 Credits
PAR 122 - Real Property 3 Credits
PAR 123 - Family Law 3 Credits
PAR 125 - Estate Planning and Probate Law 3 Credits

Electives: 15 Credit Hours

CJS 115 - Criminal Law 3 Credits
PAR 124 - Intellectual Property Law 3 Credits
BUS 241 - Business Law 3 Credits
PAR 255 - Paralegal Studies Internship 6 Credits (3-6 credits apply toward this program)
General Electives 3-18 Credits (Any 1.1 Articulated MCC Course)

Total Minimum Degree Credits: 60

Other AAS Graduation Requirements:

2.0 minimum cumulative GPA at MCC upon completion of program
15 semester hours of program-specific coursework taken at MCC.
Completion of graduation application
Completion of end-of-program assessment as directed by this department

For more information, contact the department chair: (815) 479-7511.

Paralegal Studies, AAS

Paralegal Studies, AAS Degree Requirements

General Education

Written Communication: 3 Credit Hours

Oral Communication: 3 Credit Hours

Arts, Humanities, Social Science, Behavioral Science: 3 Credit Hours