Online Associate Degrees in Legal Studies
Upon completion of the program, students may either seek entry-level employment or enroll in a baccalaureate degree program. Associate-level graduates may seek employment in legal services, finance, insurance, real estate, and government agencies.
Program Overview
- Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
- Program Length: Two years to complete
- Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
- Projected Employment Growth: 18% (2010-2020)*
Program Coursework
The curriculum for associate-level programs in legal studies may include some general education requirements along with major courses. These classes may teach students how to prepare legal documents, perform legal research, and how to handle a real estate transaction. Core online legal studies classes may include the following:
- Introduction to Law
- Legal Research
- Business Law
- Estate Administration and Probate Practice
- Legal Writing
- Civil Litigation Practice
- Elements of Organizations
Career Options
Associate-level graduates may seek career opportunities in real estate, insurance, banking, legal services, and government programs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegal and legal assistant employment opportunities are projected to increase by 18% from 2010-2020.*
Possible careers include:
- Paralegal
- Court Clerk
- Tax Preparer
- Legal Assistant
- Loan Clerk
Continuing Education
Those who successfully complete an associate degree may wish to further their education by transferring to a baccalaureate degree program. A bachelor’s degree in legal studies may provide students with more thorough studies in legal issues and the law-making process. Employers may require an associate degree at minimum to be eligible for paralegal or legal assistant employment.
*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook