This program qualifies for up to $8,000 in tuition assistance.
Paralegals perform a variety of tasks* to support lawyers, including maintaining and organizing files, conducting legal research and drafting documents, and helping them prepare for hearings, trials, and corporate meetings. They typically work in law firms, corporate legal departments, and governmental agencies.
Most paralegals and legal assistants have at least an associates degree or a certificate in paralegal studies.
The Moraine Valley paralegal program is offered at the main campus in Palos Hills.
*Paralegals do not set legal fees, give legal advice or represent clients in court proceedings.
Career Connections Program
$27.03
Median Hourly Pay
$56,230
Median Annual Salary
The Paralegal Studies program prepares the next generation of educated, ethical legal professionals to get them prepared to provide support to lawyers, judges, and others in the legal community.
The program aims to develop 21st-century paralegals focused on access to justice, current trends in the law, and continuous learning and professional development. The program develops writing, research, and technology skills, which results in exceptional support and assistance to those employing our graduates.
The program develops substantive and procedural paralegal skills in bankruptcy law, civil law, criminal law, family law, real estate law, and probate law, resulting in a value-added contributor to the legal support team.
Finally, the program develops paralegals’ ethical and professional competencies, resulting in invaluable assistance to lawyers in the pursuit of justice for all citizens.
This program has been approved for WIOA funding.
This Paralegal Studies Certificate program prepares the next generation of educated, ethical legal professionals to help them provide support to lawyers, judges, and others in the legal community.
The program’s goals and objectives are identical to those of the Paralegal Studies A.A.S. degree, except it is suited to students who completed a degree in Associate in Science (A.S.), Associate in Arts (A.A.), Associate in Engineering Science (A.E.S.), Associate in Fine Arts (A.F.A.), or higher postsecondary degrees.
A.A.S. or Associate in General Studies degree holders need to meet with an academic advisor to determine eligibility for the program and, if needed, develop a bridge program to satisfy the Paralegal Studies A.A.S. general education requirements.
This program has been approved for WIOA funding.
Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 14% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Source: U.S. Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics
Program Details
| Program Name | Type of Credential | Curriculum Code | Department or Division |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paralegal Studies | A.A.S. | 1490 | Public Service |
| Paralegal Studies | Certificate | 1491 | Public Service |
