Paralegal
Associate in Applied Science Degree — Downtown Milwaukee Campus

Program code: 10-110-1

This curriculum goes into effect starting with the summer 2008 semester.

This page was last updated in July 2007.

Overview — Paralegal is an associate degree program that focuses on preparing you for employment as a legal assistant in the legal community, in government offices or agencies, or in business or industry. The program is available days and evenings, and has been approved by the American Bar Association. Coursework revolves around basic legal courses designed to provide you with a broad background. The program additionally allows for options of legal specialization. Instruction concentrates on practical rather than theoretical aspects of law. An internship is available on an optional basis for those who select BADM-198, Business Internship as an elective.

Career Outlook — The use of paralegal staff permits more efficient and cost-effective use of an attorney’s time. Many legal office tasks can be performed by a paralegal and billed at a lower rate, while optimizing an attorney’s time to perform activities that require a law degree. Although this is a growing profession, competition in the job market is keen. Typical job duties include conducting client interviews, obtaining case information, performing legal research, preparing and filing legal documents and court papers, and providing general assistance to attorneys. Positions are also available in governmental agencies, legal departments of banks and other private organizations and companies. Students receiving this degree are required to work under the supervision of an attorney to avoid the unauthorized practice of law.

Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Employers expect graduates to:

• Demonstrate good command of the English language and familiarity with legal terminology
• Possess legal research skills
• Be familiar with routine legal documents
• Have an overall understanding of the legal process
• Be able to perform detailed work
• Use interpersonal skills when dealing with people
• Perform responsible work with attorney supervision
• Communicate clearly, orally and in writing

Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:

• A high school diploma or GED
• Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment

Important to your success is the ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines. You should be well-groomed; typing skills and computer literacy are helpful.

This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.

Related Programs:

Business Management
Criminal Justice/Law Enforcement
Human Service Associate
Management Development (Supervisory Management)

For more information, call 414-297-MATC.

Curriculum effective 2008-2009.

Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.  

NOTE: Students who have not been accepted, or have not decided on a program, may begin with the GENERAL STUDIES courses, if course prerequisites have been met.

For course descriptions, times, locations or to register online, visit INFOnline.