Associate of Science
in Paralegal Studies

This comprehensive program aims to produce graduates with a well-rounded knowledge base, suitable for employment in government agencies, law firms, corporations, real estate firms, and non-profit organizations. With an anticipated demand surge of over 50% in the next ten years, as forecasted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the Paralegal Program stands as a pivotal stepping stone into the legal field.

Paralegal Certificate and Associate’s Degree

The Paralegal Program at Youngstown State University offers both a Paralegal Certificate and an Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies. Open to all high school graduates or GED certificate holders, this flexibility allows students to tailor their educational path according to their personal or professional aspirations. The Paralegal Certificate is a viable option for those aiming to quickly step into the paralegal field without committing to an associate’s degree immediately, while still keeping the door open for future advancements.

Program Outcomes

Upon the successful completion of the Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies, graduates are expected to:

• Demonstrate a clear understanding and adherence to the ethical responsibilities of paralegals and their relationship with supervising attorneys across all legal settings.
• Exhibit professionalism towards clients, coworkers, and the legal community, consistently applying the Rules of Professional Conduct.
• Acquire substantive knowledge of laws, principles, and procedures in various areas of legal practice.
• Conduct effective legal research and writing using both traditional and digital resources.
• Implement efficient time management, organizational skills, and information management in all legal environments.
• Analyze and synthesize laws to evaluate their implications on various legal issues presented by clients or cases.
• Understand the structure and function of the U.S. Courts across Federal, State, Local, and Administrative levels, ensuring legal questions are addressed in the appropriate venue.
• Apply the five sources of law—U.S. Constitution, Federal and State Statutory Law, Rules of Court, Case Law/Judicial Opinions, and Administrative Regulations—to resolve legal questions.
• Competently use technology integral to the paralegal’s role within the legal community, ranging from legal research databases to office technology and specialized programs.

Bureau of Labor and Statistics Data and Job Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the paralegal field is on a trajectory of rapid growth, with expectations of a demand increase of more than 50% over the next decade. This growth is fueled by the escalating need for legal services in various sectors, including corporate, real estate, and non-profit organizations. Graduates from Youngstown State University’s Paralegal Program are well-positioned to enter this vibrant and expanding professional landscape, equipped with the knowledge and skills required to excel.