Paralegal Studies

Our Paralegal Studies Associate in Arts (AA) degree and Paralegal Studies Certificate of Achievement typically take two years to complete.

Paralegal Studies education at El Camino will challenge you to be your best. We’ll be here to help.

Choose a Degree Designed for a Paralegal Career or Transfer

Many El Camino paralegal studies students want to start their careers as soon as possible. Others aim to continue their education at a four-year college or university. We offer options perfect for either goal.

Paralegal Studies Associate in Arts (AA) Degree

Approved by the American Bar Association, this degree gives you a competitive advantage to secure a job because most employers want candidates with a degree or certificate from an ABA-approved program. It’s a great option if you want to study at El Camino then start working right away.

• Learn skills and knowledge of the law and legal services to:
• Provide direct assistance to attorneys.
• Prepare or interpret legal documents and draft pleadings.
• Interview clients and summarize complaints, problems, or requests.
• Enroll in day and/or evening classes designed to accommodate your schedule.
• Take classes in fields such as business law, legal research, probate procedures, family law, and legal research and writing.
• Start your journey toward a bachelor’s degree, paralegal career, and even graduate study.

Paralegal Studies Certificate of Achievement

If you have already earned an associate or bachelor’s degree, you can complete our American Bar Association-approved certificate program. This 11-course, 33 to 35-unit program gives you the skills you need to become a successful paralegal.  

• Earn a certificate after seven required courses focused on law fundamentals and four elective courses of your choice.
• Learn skills and knowledge of the law and legal services to:
• Provide direct assistance to attorneys.
• Prepare or interpret legal documents and draft pleadings.
• Interview clients and summarize complaints, problems, or requests.
• Enroll in day and/or evening classes designed to accommodate working students.
• Take classes in fields such as business law, legal research, probate procedures, family law, and legal research and writing. 

Pursue an Entry-Level Paralegal Job or Further Education

As an El Camino paralegal studies graduate, you’ll be ready to start work immediately or pursue a bachelor’s degree at another school. We’ll help you build the skills and knowledge for any path you choose.

• Train to assist lawyers in private firms, legal departments of companies, and/or governmental agencies.  
• Sharpen critical skills for professional advancement while learning to lead, listen, advise, and advocate.
• Learn from our experienced instructors who are practicing attorneys and judges who give the training and tools you need to be a successful paralegal.  
• Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $23,000 to $119,000 with an average salary of $60,000.

Build Your Paralegal Network Beyond the Classroom

As an El Camino paralegal studies student, you become part of a dedicated professional community. The perspectives and connections you develop here will prove valuable throughout your career.

• Our experienced instructors are practicing attorneys and judges who offer career perspectives along with the training and tools you need to be a successful paralegal.  
• Meet other students and join The Law Society student club.
• Job placement assistance is available to you, along with mentoring and leadership opportunities.
• Take advantage of an internship or paraprofessional opportunity.