About Paralegal/Legal Studies
Learn the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a degree and/or enter the workforce in legal and related fields.
Our paralegal program is ABA-approved and complies with the requirements established under current California law to become a paralegal. NOTE: Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law.
Explore Potential Careers
Studying Paralegal/Legal Studies can lead to a variety of different jobs or career paths. Below are just some of the many options you will have!
- Law firms (from solo practitioner law practices to multi-practices and even international offices)
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies (federal and state)
- Courts (municipal, state, and federal)
- Law school (Our program is a stepping stone to an advanced career in law.)
Program Options
We offer two options:
A. The program of study for the Associate in Science degree in Paralegal/Legal Studies is designed so that students may satisfy the general education requirements and paralegal course requirements simultaneously to earn both the degree and the Certificate of Achievement. The paralegal certificate is ONLY awarded upon completion of the general education requirements for the AS Degree.
B. The program of study for the Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal/Legal Studies is for students who already hold a college degree OR who have completed 30 units of general education or law-related courses with a 2.0 grade point average or higher at an accredited, post-secondary school prior to admission into our paralegal program. Note: Students who do not already hold a degree or have not completed at least 30 units of general education or law-related courses must pursue Option A--the Associate in Science degree in Paralegal/Legal Studies.
Click on the degree or certificate that applies to you to see a map of courses to take to complete your goal from start to finish. Note: English 1A is a prerequisite for both program option A and B.
Please note that the course maps provided are just an example to help you get started. Please meet with a counselor to personalize the plan to you and your Academic goals.
Transfer Options
Many Bay Area legal employers seek candidates with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree. Our community college does not offer beyond an associate’s degree. Students are encouraged to continue their education in a four-year college. The program coursework you complete at City College will satisfy lower-division requirements for related majors at several colleges and universities.
Have questions about transfer? Visit the Transfer Center for help, transfer information, and/or to speak with college representatives.