Legal Studies, BS (Continuing Studies)

120 semester hours of credit required for degree

Students enrolled in this ABA-approved program are provided the maximum opportunity to become educated in the theory, philosophy, and ethical practice law. They become well versed in civil and criminal law, legal writing, and procedure and may  concentrated on a particular area of law through the choice of legal electives. The legal skills acquired through this program enable graduates to assist attorneys in all phases of private and public law practice. Graduates of this program may serve as legals to attorneys in law firms, in corporate offices, and on the legal staffs of various government agencies. Paralegals do not exercise independent legal judgment and do not render legal advice or opinions, set fees, accept cases, or appear in court. They work under the supervision and direction of attorneys. Paralegal studies graduates become proficient in numerous areas, including document preparation, legal research and writing, civil procedure, case file maintenance, and law office management. Students completing this program are awarded both a bachelor of science degree and an ABA-approved legal certificate of completion. See also Legal Studies Program (LSP) information.

General Education Requirements 

All students are required to complete a minimum of 9 semester hours in each of the three areas of humanities, social science, and science/mathematics. A Semester hour consists of one hour per week in a classroom per semester or two to three hours in laboratory or fieldwork per semester. This requirement is based on the conviction that a baccalaureate degree represents more than expertise in a specific field. Students broaden themselves by taking courses in academic areas that have traditionally been at the heart of an undergraduate  education. Students should work closely with advisors in selecting courses appropriate to their interests and academic needs. For more information regarding the General Education Requirements, please see the navigation bar in the catalog or General Education  .

Courses taken on pass/no pass basis may not be used to satisfy the university distribution requirement. Both semester-long and certain module courses may be used to satisfy distribution requirements.