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A paralegal works with two clients in a law office, reviewing documents.

Paralegal & Legal Studies

Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.)

Paralegals play an important role in assisting attorneys. You'll conduct research, draft legal documents, work with clients, and manage case files. Gain the writing and research skills necessary to enter this field with our flexible online program.

Associate Degree
63 Credit Hours
100% Online

Program Overview

Contribute to the pursuit of justice and resolve legal matters by working as a paralegal. Study important legal fields such as property rights, litigation, and estate planning. Work on projects and draft legal documents like those you'll encounter as a paralegal. You'll explore career options and personalize your education to match your interests and goals.

Supplement your paralegal studies with general education coursework on writing, research, and logic. Courses in composition and public speaking prepare you to communicate with clients, lawyers, judges, and other law professionals.

  • Career Outlook

    Paralegal expertise is vital to an organization's success in every industry. Legal assistants often work in law firms, corporate offices, and government agencies. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects the demand for paralegals and legal assistants to grow 4% by 2032. The median annual wage for paralegal careers was $59,200 in 2022.

    Graduate from this program ready to start a career as a paralegal or legal assistant. Previous graduates work at law firms, corporations, and government offices across New York state.

    Curious about career pathways in this field? Check out Career Coach to learn more about industry job growth, education requirements, earning potential, and more. 

    Smooth Transfer to a Four-Year College

    If you're considering a bachelor’s degree after FLCC, our academic advisors will help you connect with four-year schools and explore transfer options. We'll assist you in selecting courses that efficiently meet the requirements for both FLCC and your future college.

    • Joint Admissions Agreements: These allow first-year students to gain admission to both FLCC and participating four-year schools at the same time. Gain peace of mind knowing your next step is set while you complete your associate degree with us.
    • Transfer Articulation Agreements: These partnerships ensure your credits from FLCC will transfer directly and seamlessly to a partner four-year school. You can enter a bachelor’s program with full junior standing, saving you time and money.

    VIEW TRANSFER AGREEMENTS

    Where Our Students Transfer

    Many students in our Paralegal & Legal Studies program go on to complete a four-year degree at colleges such as:

    • Rochester Institute of Technology
    • SUNY Cortland
    • SUNY Geneseo
    • Syracuse University
    • University of Buffalo
    • University of Rochester
  • Online Degree Program

    Our paralegal degree and certificate programs are 100% online. Online courses provide a convenient and flexible way to earn your education. Study on your time and from a location that fits your schedule.

    Hands-On Paralegal Experience with Internships

    Complete a 128-hour paralegal internship and gain first-hand experience in this profession. Find the perfect fit with our network of over 35 law firms, real estate companies, government agencies, banks, and insurance companies.

    During your internship, you'll engage in substantive legal work such as preparing official documents (trusts, wills, and real estate closings) and managing client communications.

    Learn From Regional Paralegal Experts

    Meet experts in various legal fields through the program's guest speaker series. Attorneys and paralegals from Rochester, Syracuse, and Buffalo will discuss real-world scenarios.

    Make an informed choice about your future. Hear what it's like to work in public firms, small private practices, real estate offices, and corporate headquarters.

  • Sample Courses

    Visit our academic catalog for a complete listing of program requirements, including prerequisites, general education requirements, electives, and a sample schedule.

    View Full Curriculum

    Sample core courses you'll take in this program include:

Low-Cost Tuition and Scholarship Opportunities

Earn a quality education at an affordable rate. With our low cost per credit and general scholarship opportunities, you can maximize your potential with minimal debt. Our financial aid counselors will guide you through the process and help you understand college costs.

Program Page Cost Statistics

$5,376

per year for in-state tuition ($224 per credit hour).
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76%

of students are eligible for financial aid or scholarships.
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$18M

in financial aid was disbursed to our students last year.
Learn About Financial Aid