Program Information
-
Location: Downtown Milwaukee Campus, Online Campus
- Pathway: Community & Human Services
- Program Code: 30-110-2
- Offering: Online, In-class
- Degree Type: Technical Diploma
- Start Dates: August/January/June
About the Post-Baccalaureate Legal Studies/Paralegal Diploma
DESCRIPTION
This program is designed for students who already have a bachelor’s degree with at least 18-credits in Liberal Arts courses. You will gain the foundation for a paralegal career in a law office, government agency, private organization or corporation. Classes are offered face-to-face at the Downtown Milwaukee Campus. Selected courses are available online and in blended/accelerated format. At least 9-credits of legal specialty (PLEGAL) courses must be taken through synchronous instruction.
Typical job duties include conducting client interviews, obtaining case information, performing legal research, and providing general assistance to attorneys. Paralegals are required to work under the supervision of an attorney to avoid the unauthorized practice of law. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.
Additional program details: Important to your success is the ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines. You should present a professional well-groomed appearance; typing skills and computer literacy are helpful. Coursework revolves around basic legal courses designed to provide you with a broad background. Instruction concentrates on practical, rather than theoretical, aspects of law.
The entire program can be completed remotely. Classes are offered in 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week format in a virtual synchronous environment (weekly virtual class sessions required). Selected courses are available in an online format (no required weekly meetings). Summer classes are also available.
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RELATED PROGRAMS
Legal Studies/Paralegal
With coursework focused on the practical aspects of law, this program provides a broad background and prepares students to work as a paralegal in the legal community, in government, or in business and industry.
Criminal Justice Studies
This program is designed to prepare you for employment in law enforcement at the state, local and federal levels, as well as in the field of private security. Successful completion of this program may qualify you to enroll in basic recruit training that leads to certification in Wisconsin.
Detailed Program Information
2024-25 Curriculum
| Course | Course Name | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| ENG-195* | Written Communication ‡ (or) ENG-201 English 1 ‡ |
3 |
| PLEGAL-101 | Introduction to Paralegalism | 3 |
| PLEGAL-103 | Legal Research ‡ | 3 |
| PLEGAL-105 | Civil Procedure ‡ | 3 |
| PLEGAL-107 | Legal Writing ‡ | 3 |
| PLEGAL-111 | Litigation Practice Systems ‡ | 3 |
| PLEGAL-114 | Trusts and Estates – Probate Systems ‡ | 3 |
|
TOTAL CREDITS |
21 |
* Students admitted to the technical diploma program should request that undergraduate credit be awarded for ENG-195.
‡ Prerequisite required, however, students admitted to the technical diploma program can register for paralegal specialty (PLEGAL) courses. Diploma students must request Prerequisite Waivers for the courses they wish to take via their Self-Service account.
It is recommended that PLEGAL-103 be taken prior to PLEGAL-107, and that PLEGAL-105 be taken prior to PLEGAL-111.
A minimum of 9 credits of legal specialty courses at MATC must be completed.
Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.
Current MATC students should consult their Academic Program Plan for specific curriculum requirements.
Search for available classes now (link) to see course descriptions, class times and locations.
Already a student? You can visit Self-Service (link) and choose Student Planning to register for classes.
Important Dates
Deadlines and important dates can be found on:
Cost & Aid Deadlines
Also, you can find dates and deadlines on the MATC Events Calendar
Program Outcomes
- Apply ethical principles in a legal environment
- Process legal documents
- Perform legal research
- Apply critical thinking skills to address legal issues
- Demonstrate professionalism in a legal environment
Career Outlook
Typical job duties include conducting client interviews, obtaining case information, performing legal research, preparing and filing legal documents, and providing general assistance to attorneys.
Possible Careers
Corporate Legal DepartmentContract Abstractor
Compliance Officer
Legal Document Proofreader
Law Clerk
Legal Assistant
Legal Office Manager
Admission Requirements
Bachelor’s degree with at least 18 credits in Liberal Arts courses required; applicants should submit an official college transcript to the Downtown Milwaukee Campus Admissions Office.
Transfer of legal specialty coursework credit (PLEGAL designated courses) is accepted, subject to review by the Program Coordinator for course compatibility, only from ABA approved paralegal programs or from accredited law schools. Transfer is limited to a maximum of 9 credits.
Scholarships
Accreditation
This program is approved by the American Bar Association, 321 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60654; 800-285-2221; americanbar.org/groups/paralegals/.
READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP?
Use the buttons below to get more information, visit the college or apply now.
Request Info Visit Us Apply Now
QUESTIONS?
Community & Human Services Academic & Career Pathway
414-570-4426
servepathway@matc.edu