GENERAL EDUCATION REQUIREMENT
24 Semester Hours at the college level encompassing the following areas:
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English Composition/Grammar *
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Mathematics
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Logic/Philosophy
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Speech/Communication
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Earth or Natural Science
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Political Science/History
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Sociology
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Humanities, including Philosophy
The following areas are desirable electives:
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Business **
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Computer Science/Literacy
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Foreign Language
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Psychology
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Economics
* Extensive experience in grammar and composition is important for paralegals.
**Only Accounting, Business Communication and Personnel Management courses are desirable.
LEGAL SPECIALTY REQUIREMENTS
24 Semester Hours* Students need to have exposure to the following theory/practice areas as follows:
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Litigation/Civil Procedure
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Legal Research and Writing
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Real Property Transaction
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Business and Corporate Law
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Wills, Trust and Estate Planning
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Family Law
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Torts
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Contracts
Exposure to the following theory/practice areas may be beneficial, depending on the legal market **:
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Advanced Legal Research and Writing
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Advanced Litigation/Civil Procedure
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Bankruptcy, Debtor/Creditor Rights
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Administrative Law
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Pension/Profit Sharing
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Law Office Economics and Management
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Tax Law
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Labor Relations/Employment Law
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Intellectual Property
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Criminal Law
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Immigration Law
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Social Security Law
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Constitutional Law
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Environmental Law
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Elder Law
*An introduction course to law for paralegals may provide the necessary exposure to some of these practice areas. Programs are strongly encouraged to have a separate course on ethics and professional responsibility. However, if a separate course is not taught, ethics and professional responsibility should be taught across the curriculum; additionally, computer applications should be taught across the curriculum.
**Courses entitled "Special Topics" are suggested in order to allow for flexibility in the curriculum. Courses in specific practice areas then could be offered on an "as-needed basis." Intern/externships are strongly encouraged.
modified 3/28/2012