College of Technology - Building Unlimited Career Opportunities
Program Options & Length:
- Program begins in August
- Program length is 4 semesters
- Admits 12 students each year
Program Description
Paralegals, also called legal assistants, are an integral part of the legal team. Paralegals investigate facts, conduct legal research, interview clients, organize and analyze case materials and information, draft legal documents and correspondence, and generally assist in all phases of litigation. The Paralegal Studies program seeks to educate and equip students with knowledge and skills that will enable them to perform these tasks competently and effectively in a variety of legal settings. Paralegals may work in many areas of the law--civil litigation, bankruptcy, corporate, criminal, administrative, environmental, real estate, domestic, health care, employment, estate planning, and more. Courses in the Paralegal Studies program provide instruction in specific areas of law and practice in developing requisite skills.
Most paralegals work in law firms. There are also job opportunities for paralegals in government agencies, courts, legal clinics, corporations, banks, insurance companies, title companies, records centers, and other businesses where law-related work is performed.
Although they perform many of the same tasks as lawyers, paralegals do not engage in the practice of law or have clients to whom they provide legal services. They work under the supervision of lawyers, performing tasks that are delegated by a lawyer or for which a lawyer is ultimately responsible. Paralegals may work in limited areas where non-lawyers are authorized by law to assume certain law-related responsibilities.
Certificates & Degrees
- Associate of Applied Science Degree Paralegal Studies
Admission Steps
- Complete an application for admission and pay fees online. Be sure to click on the Professional Technical Application and select your program choice. * If you are applying for the Associate Degree Registered Nurse program, the Respiratory Therapy program or a bachelor's degree offered through the College of Technology, go to the Undergraduate Application.
- High school graduation or GED is required. Submit an official copy of your high school transcript or GED scores (Not required if you have submitted proof of 14 or more academic credits from an accredited institution of higher education).
- Submit an official college transcript from each accredited institution of higher education that you have attended.
- Either COMPASS or ACT scores.
- Complete the COMPASS placement test. This test enables us to place
you in the appropriate classes to enhance your success in college.
or - Submit ACT scores, (valid for seven years from date of testing).
- Complete the COMPASS placement test. This test enables us to place
you in the appropriate classes to enhance your success in college.
- Meet with one of the College of Technology advisors to finalize your acceptance. To make an appointment, call (208)282-2622.
- Apply for Financial Aid if needed. Questions — call (208)282-2756.
Note: Some programs have additional admission criteria. Contact Student Services at 208-282-2622 for assistance.
Career Opportunities
85% of 2009 Paralegal graduates were employed in related jobs..
All AAS degrees will articulate into the Bachelor of Applied Technology.
Cost of Attendance
Fees are determined by the current Idaho State University fee schedule, which includes mandatory student health insurance. Students with existing health insurance coverage may waive student health insurance. Waivers are available at http://www.isu.edu/stuhlth/insurance/.
Additional program, equipment, and book costs are listed here.
Paying for College
You may apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans to help finance your college education. When you pay registration fees, you are a student of Idaho State University with the privileges and responsibilities of a college student.
Affirmative Action, ADA & Equal Employment Opportunity at ISU
Idaho State University subscribes to the principles and laws of the State of Idaho and the federal government, including applicable executive orders
pertaining to civil rights. All rights, privileges, and activities of the University are made available without regard to race, creed, color, sex, age, disability, national origin or veteran status. The University is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. Evidence of practices that are not consistent with such a policy should be reported to:
Joyce Hammond-Perry J.D.
Affirmative Action Director
Rendezvous Complex 157 Stop 8315
(208) 282-3973
ADA Policy Statement
Idaho State University is committed to equal opportunity in education for all students, including those with documented disabilities. If you have a diagnosed disability or if you believe that you have a disability that might require reasonable accomodation, please contact:
Dennis J. Toney,
ADA Disabilities and Resource Center Director
Graveley Hall 123 Box 8121
E-mail tonedenn@isu.edu
208-282-3599
