Legal Studies, A.S.

About This Degree

This program is designed to help graduates enter careers in the legal field. Students will take foundational law courses in some of the subject areas they would see if they choose to go on to law school. These courses are all taught by licensed attorneys. The course materials include up-to-the-minute opportunities to discuss and study the constantly change legal landscape in the United States as well as guest speakers from the field.

This program may serve as the first two years toward a baccalaureate degree. Graduates of the program interested in law school may continue on in their pursuit of a baccalaureate degree here, through the VU Homeland Security program, or they may choose to transfer to another 4-year institution before attending law school.

Graduates, without any further education, will be prepared to work as paralegals, legal assistants, and legal secretaries throughout the United States in private and public law offices, corporate offices, government offices (federal and state), and private companies. They will also be prepared to work in court houses in the circuit and county clerk offices. Graduates of this program might also consider looking into further education as a court reporter, a very in-demand career.

Job market assistance and evaluation is available to all graduates. Graduates may also receive consultations about LSAT preparation and the law school application and admissions process
Graduates of this program may not begin the practice of law. No one my practice law until they have completed law school and have taken the Bar Exam. Paralegals and legal assistants must work under the careful observation of a licensed attorney. The unauthorized practice of law carries severe civil (and, in some states, criminal) penalties.

Career Outcomes

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VU Paralegal Policy on Accepting Legal Specialty Course Work and awarding Legal Speciality Credit