Legal Studies
With the option of completing your degree online or in-person, you can tailor this program to meet your specific needs and goals. Nine credits of legal specialty courses must be completed either in-person or online.
Our Legal Studies program stands out as one of the few ABA-approved programs in the Western half of Pennsylvania. This approval ensures that our curriculum meets the highest standards of legal education, making our graduates highly sought after by employers. In addition, as voting members of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE), we adhere to substantial compliance with ABA standards, further solidifying the quality and integrity of our program.
Paralegal careers are in high demand. The Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that paralegal jobs will increase by 14% which is much higher than average. Our graduates are employed across the country. Whether you want to become a paralegal, court support personnel, or work in real estate and business, this bachelor's degree in legal studies is right for you. It also gives you a jump-start on future study in law school, as many of our graduates have gone on to become attorneys.
Under the guidance of experienced professors, you will gain a broad knowledge of a wide range of legal topics, including legal reasoning, legal research and writing, litigation, estates and trusts, real estate, business, ethics and multiple practice areas of law. You’ll learn how to interpret and analyze legal materials such as case law, how to conduct legal research on diverse topics, and how to identify and predict how law and legislation influence the community.
As you grow and develop into a legal professional, you will sharpen your talents in writing, research and deductive reasoning.
This program is for you if...
- You're interested in launching a career as a paralegal or in legal support roles.
- You seek flexibility in your studies, with options for both online and in-person courses.
- You aim to progress into high-demand legal and paralegal roles, bolstered by a program with a strong employment outlook.
- You're considering further studies in law school or careers in related fields such as real estate, business, or government.
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Global Online
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120 Credits for BA
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24 Credits for Certificate
What You'll Study
In the Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies program at PennWest, you will be immersed in a comprehensive curriculum that covers a broad spectrum of legal topics, from legal reasoning and ethics to specialized areas like real estate, business law, and litigation. The program emphasizes practical skills in legal research and writing, as well as critical analysis of law and legislation, preparing students for real-world legal challenges.
Degrees, Certificates
Meet Our Faculty
Our faculty are not just instructors; they are mentors, researchers, and industry professionals committed to providing an education grounded in real-world experiences and academic excellence. From engaging classroom discussions to hands-on experiential learning, our educators are here to support and inspire you every step of the way.
Concentrations
There are no concentrations for this program.
What You'll Become
Graduates of the legal studies program emerge as well-prepared professionals capable of thriving in the legal field. Whether your goal is to become a paralegal, enter corporate legal departments, or continue your education in law school, this program equips you with the necessary skills and ethical grounding to succeed in various legal environments and pursue justice effectively.
Career Paths
- Paralegal or Legal Assistant
- Court System Support Personnel
- Real Estate Practitioner
- Corporate Legal Department Staff
- Government Agency Employee
Samuel Saul Richardson
"The Paralegal program helped tremendously. The Legal Research and Legal Writing classes were extremely hands-on and were almost exactly what I had to do in my first semester of law school research and writing classes.”
How We'll Help You Succeed
At Pennsylvania Western University (PennWest), we prioritize your success and well-being from the moment you join our community. Our comprehensive student support system is designed to meet you where you are, offering personalized guidance, academic assistance, and emotional support to ensure you can fully focus on your studies and personal growth. Whether you're a first-generation college student, returning for further education, or navigating career changes, our dedicated faculty and staff provide the encouragement and resources you need to overcome challenges and thrive. With a wide range of services from tutoring and career counseling to mental health resources, PennWest stands by your side, empowering you to achieve your academic goals and prepare for a successful future. Join us at PennWest, where you're not just a student; you're part of a supportive family committed to helping you find your place in the world.
14%
The job outlook for paralegals and legal assistants is expected to grow by 14% through 2031 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
American Bar Association
This bachelor’s degree program is approved by the American Bar Association.
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Affordable Programs
Tuition & FeesDiscover quality education that fits your budget with our affordable programs at PennWest.
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Success Coaching
Success at PennWestAchieve your academic goals with personalized guidance from our dedicated student success coaches.
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Post-Graduation Support
Life After PennWestWe're here for you even after graduation, providing support and resources to help you succeed in your career.