Turn Attention to Detail into a Paralegal Career
Prepare for a career in the legal field with STLCC’s legal studies for the paralegal associate in applied science (AAS) degree or certificate of proficiency (CP). Developed in cooperation with the Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis, the program introduces you to legal terminology, federal and Missouri law, court systems and key areas of legal practice.
You’ll develop skills in legal research, document preparation, case organization and professional communication while learning how paralegals support attorneys and clients. With online course options available, you can complete your coursework in a flexible format while building the knowledge and skills needed for entry-level paralegal roles.
What is Legal Studies at St. Louis Community College?
The legal studies for the paralegal degree prepares you to work alongside attorneys and legal teams in professional settings. The program focuses on how laws, courts and legal procedures operate in practice and how paralegals support cases through research, documentation and organization.
You’ll learn how the court system works, how legal rules are applied and how to prepare and manage documents used in legal settings. Coursework introduces federal and Missouri laws, legal research and writing, case preparation and professional office procedures.
You’ll also have the opportunity to explore areas of interest through elective courses in topics such as:
- Contract law.
- Tort law.
- Family law.
- Real estate law.
- Employment law.
This program is a good fit if you enjoy detail-focused work, organization, research and helping legal teams solve problems. It provides the foundation needed to pursue entry-level paralegal roles in law firms, corporations, government agencies and other legal environments.
What Can You Do with a Legal Studies for the Paralegal Associate Degree?
A legal studies for the paralegal AAS prepares you for entry-level roles supporting attorneys, legal teams and clients in a variety of professional settings. You’ll develop essential skills in legal research, document preparation, case organization, communication and the procedures that help legal offices operate effectively.
Graduates may find opportunities in settings such as law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, real estate offices, insurance companies and nonprofit organizations. In these roles, you may assist with legal research, prepare and organize documents, maintain case files, communicate with clients and support attorneys with the day-to-day tasks involved in managing cases.
This degree provides a strong foundation for entering the paralegal field and gaining valuable experience in professional legal environments. It can also support continued career growth through additional education, specialized legal training or advancement into more experienced paralegal roles.
AAS in Legal Studies for the Paralegal
- Degree offered: Associate in applied science
Certificate of Proficiency (CP) also available - Locations: Meramec, Online
- AAS Hours to complete: 60
- CP Hours to complete: 33
- Program contact name: Barbara E. Wiseheart
- Program contact email: bwiseheart@stlcc.edu
Tuition for district residents is $127 per credit hour for in-district students. Find out more about our straightforward and low-cost tuition structure.
Why You Should Choose STLCC's Legal Studies for the Paralegal Associate Program
Graduate With Little or No Debt
We believe cost should never be a barrier to achieving your potential. Save more than $4,700 per year with tuition that's one-third less than other local institutions. Plus, we'll help you navigate scholarship options and financial aid.
Caring for Students
STLCC goes beyond academics with support services, ranging from stress and anxiety management to grants for childcare, emergency crisis support, clothing and free meals through Archers' Market and Brown Bag Café food pantry. We offer free tutoring on campus or online.
Schedules Built for Your Busy Life
Fitting a quality education into your busy life is easy with the flexibility STLCC offers: day and evening, in-person, live virtual lecture, online and hybrid.
Extensive Course Variety
No matter which areas of law interest you most, STLCC's AAS in legal studies for the paralegal program is sure to provide it. With elective courses in tort, family, contract, real estate, administrative, and employment law, you'll be prepared to become a paralegal in multiple fields.
STLCC. What's your reason?