The Paralegal Studies Certificate program is designed to provide the student with an overall knowledge of legal issues and a variety of skills that go beyond what is necessary for a legal secretary. Those skills encompass the ability to interview clients and witnesses, to conduct research, and to aid attorneys and other professionals in the preparation of legal documents and to assist attorneys in preparation for trial.

The course of study provides opportunities for the student to gain advanced knowledge of law, including torts, criminal law, family law, business law, and estate planning as well as other areas of law applicable to the modern practice. The student will receive training in skills needed to work in various settings that utilize paralegals such as government agencies, private non-profit agencies, corporate legal departments, private law offices, and title, abstract, and real estate offices. 

Graduation Requirements

All PL S courses must be completed with a C- or higher.  PL S courses taken more than 7 years prior to graduation must be repeated.

Certificate in Paralegal Studies: A cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.  A minimum of 9 credits earned toward the certificate must be completed at SENMC.

AAS in Paralegal Studies: ENGL 1110G Composition I with a C- or higher; placement into college-level math and reading courses or completion of developmental courses with a C- or higher; cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher.  A minimum of 15 of the 60 credits for the associate's degree must be completed at SENMC.