What Can I Do With A Major In Paralegal Studies?

Introduction

The Paralegal Studies program prepares students for challenging and diverse careers in private law practices and in the law-related areas of business, industry, and government. The goals of the Paralegal Studies program are to enable students, through theoretical and practical legal education, to understand the function of law, to work as paralegals in the effective delivery of legal services, and to contribute to the legal profession. This program is designed to equip students with skills to analyze legal issues and to perform a variety of activities including drafting legal documents, interviewing clients, conducting legal research, and preparing cases for trial. Students utilize current technology through Internet research and legal and general office software applications. Paralegal Studies students receive the necessary legal training to take advantage of new career opportunities in all sectors of the economy. Students are exposed to the principles of legal ethics and are cautioned regarding restrictions against the unauthorized practice of law by laypersons.

Special Features:

Program approved by the American Bar Association

College is an institutional member of the American Association for Paralegal Education

Marketable skills that make graduates immediately employable with an A.A.S. degree

Only ABA-approved program in Montana University System

Attorney directs the program

Attorneys teach legal specialty courses

Articulation agreement with the University of Great Falls for students wishing to obtain a Bachelor's Degree in Paralegal Studies

Opportunities for graduates to work in a variety of legal settings

A Sample of Related Occupations

Related Occupations Related Occupations Related Occupations
Paralegal Legal Assistant Legal Administrative Assistant
Legal Support Staff Legal Administrator Law Office Manager
Real Estate Assistant Title Company Closing Agent Title Examiner
Loan Document Specialist Legal Document Specialist Law Office File Clerk
Case Manager
   
 
Types of Employers
Private and Non-profit Organizations
 

Law Firms

Accounting Firms

Insurance Companies

Financial Institutions

Real Estate Firms

Title Companies

Corporate Legal Departments

Public Service Organizations

Mediation Services

Law Schools

 
Government Agencies
 

Tribal Agencies

Legal Services

Law Enforcement Agencies

Courthouse-Clerk and Recorder, Clerk of Court

Public Health and Human Services

County Attorney's Office

Public Defender's Office

Social Security Administration

Related Web Links

 

Professional Associations

For additional career information, see the Occupational Outlook Handbook