Associate of Science in Legal Studies
Earn Your Associate Degree in Legal Studies Online or On Campus!
If you have been thinking about what it would be like to help others navigate the law and solve legal problems, the Associate of Science in Legal Studies program at Post University may be for you.
Our associate degree in legal studies program explores what it takes to develop skills for legal research, civil litigation, real estate closings, estate administration and probate practice, business law, and more. In addition to pursuing specific and relevant legal and paralegal knowledge, you will be given opportunities to build professional skills for communication and decision-making. The program also provides elective opportunities you could use to better understand legal issues involved in different areas such as family law and bankruptcy practice.
What Could I Do with an Associate Degree in Legal Studies?
Upon completion of this associate degree in legal studies, online or on our main campus in Connecticut, you will have had the opportunity to develop and hone specific legal skills and knowledge in the context of ethical practice. Coursework offers the tools you could use to explore a future in areas of legal research, civil litigation, family law and practice, research and writing of legal documents, and more. You may be able to use your legal studies education in business, non-profit work, public service, and more. Or you could use your associate degree as a steppingstone to the bachelor’s degree program here at Post.
Industry-Focused Curriculum for Professional Skills
Coursework for your program is designed to help you build the foundation of insights and practical skills necessary to:
- Better use the technology involved in the delivery of legal services
- Work as a team player in the delivery of legal services under the supervision of a lawyer
- Demonstrate a practical understanding of subject-specific skills in legal work
- Communicate more effectively and professionally
- Provide relevant services based on ethical awareness and integrity
- Understand opportunities in law firms, corporate legal departments, government, and non-profit settings
- And more!
The Associate of Science in Legal Studies degree is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any legal credential, such as a state law license or a paralegal certification.
Visit the University Catalog >> for Curriculum, Course Descriptions, and Program Outcomes.
Benefits of Pursuing an Associate Degree in Legal Studies Online
From the admissions process to the day you graduate, we are with you every step of the way.
- Receive support from your personal Post team focused on your academic success
- Learn from industry professionals in interactive courses
- No class times or set login times
- Online courses emphasize practical application of various legal studies issues
A Word from Our Program Chair
“The legal studies program attracts students who are interested in law. We offer a broad-based education in legal studies. Students have the opportunity to obtain exceptional legal skills and knowledge.”
Linda Latimer, JD
Program Chair, Legal Studies
Pursue Your Associate Degree in Legal Studies at Post!
At Post University, we are focused on your success, in and out of the classroom. A student success advisor will work with you one-on-one to answer your questions and help you address challenges throughout your associate degree in legal studies, on campus in Waterbury, Connecticut, or fully online. We are here to help you achieve your personal and professional goals.
Ready to pursue an education that offers a better understanding of legal studies and the fields surrounding it? Contact us to learn more about our program.
FAQs
What is an associate degree in law in the US?
An associate degree in law in the US typically refers to a program, like the Associate of Science in Legal Studies offered by Post University, that provides students with foundational knowledge and skills related to legal research, civil litigation, real estate closings, estate administration and probate practice, business law, and more. These types of degrees are designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in legal settings or to continue their education in law-related fields. An associate degree in law or legal studies is not the same thing as the kind of law degree needed to become a practicing attorney.
Is an associate degree enough for law school?
Typically, an associate’s degree alone is not sufficient for admission to law school in the United States. Law schools typically require a bachelor’s degree for admission. However, an associate’s degree can provide a foundation in legal studies and may be a stepping-stone for further education in law.
What is the difference between a paralegal and an associate?
While a paralegal has a straightforward definition, the term associate could mean different things depending on the context. In terms of education, an associate could refer to someone pursuing an associate degree in legal studies or a similar program, which provides broader education and training in legal concepts and skills beyond just paralegal duties. A paralegal is a professional who assists lawyers in various legal tasks, such as legal research, drafting documents, and preparing for trials. However, in the legal profession, an associate could also refer to a practicing attorney who is part of a professional organization or law firm. The main difference between a paralegal and an associate in this context is their roles and responsibilities in the legal field.
Do legal studies prepare you for law school?
Although law schools generally do not require a degree in any particular area, a legal studies program can be helpful in preparing you for law school in that it offers a solid foundation in legal concepts, research, and communication skills. Almost all law schools require a bachelor’s degree.
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