Paralegal Studies, AS

The Paralegal Studies program is an ABA approved legal assistant education program with the purpose of providing each paralegal student at South College with a quality, practical legal education in order to provide attorneys and the legal community with paralegals who are qualified, responsible, and professional. In keeping with the demands of professionalism, the Paralegal Studies program consists of specialized coursework and a 120-hour, supervised internship in selected legal settings - both public and private - such as real estate and title companies, bank and trust agencies, law firms, and judicial offices. Extensive practical training prepares graduates, under the supervision of an attorney, to perform many of the functions in a legal office, with the exception that they cannot give legal advice, appear in court, accept cases, or set fees. The program explores various ethical considerations for the paralegal and other members of the legal team in each course. Students are required to earn a minimum grade of “C” in all major courses.

Learning Outcomes

Students completing this program will:

1. Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental theoretical legal concepts necessary for an entry-level paralegal under the direction and supervision of a licensed attorney.
2. Develop legal research, writing, and drafting skills necessary for an entry-level paralegal position under the direction and supervision of a licensed attorney.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of appropriate professional and ethical responsibilities as set forth in the Tennessee Rules of Professional Responsibility and other related guidelines, laws, and directives

Admission

All students must minimally meet the requirements for general admission to South College. General admission to South College does not guarantee admission to the program. Program admission is not granted until a student has successfully completed 8 hours in the major curriculum at South College, earning the minimum grades required by the program.

The Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies program is currently offered at the Knoxville and Asheville campuses (Hybrid).