|
|
|
May 25, 2026
|
|
Fall 2026 - Summer 2027 Academic Catalog
Paralegal Certificate
|
|
 Return to: Programs by School
School: Business and Professional Careers
Academic Dept: Criminal Justice and Paralegal
HEGIS: 5099
Important Note about Program Requirements
The requirements listed below are for students entering into this program from Fall 2026 to Summer 2027. Students who entered the program during a prior semester will find their specific requirements listed in the Catalog under which they entered. Archived Catalogs are accessible through the dropdown menu above.
|
Program Description
The Paralegal Certificate at SUNY Westchester Community College prepares students with foundational skills for law-related occupations under attorney supervision. This American Bar Association-approved program combines rigorous coursework with hands-on training in key areas like legal research, litigation, criminal law, and real property law. Paralegal students gain practical experience using tools such as Westlaw and legal office software, equipping them with vital competencies for a career in government agencies, law firms, and corporate legal departments. Graduates emerge ready to support legal teams with strong skills in legal research, ethics, and courtroom procedure. Program Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this program, a student will: - Demonstrate the skills necessary to work in an ethical manner in a law office under the supervision of an attorney.
- Demonstrate an understanding of the state and federal court systems.
- Demonstrate knowledge of legal terminology, substantive law, and legal procedures necessary for a successful legal career.
Accreditation
Professional Organization:
American Bar Association
321 North Clark Street
Chicago, IL 60654
Phone: 800-285-2221 Status: Continued approval for seven years beginning February 2019 through August 2026. Next Full Review: 2026 Program Notes
Students are required to complete at least nine semester credits or the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction conducted either in person or live online classes. Program Policies The Paralegal Studies program at Westchester Community College is approved by the American Bar Association. According to the American Bar Association, “a legal assistant or paralegal is a person qualified by education, training, or work experience, who is employed or retained by a lawyer, law office, corporation, governmental agency or other entity and who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work, for which the lawyer is responsible.” Paralegals are not licensed in New York State and always work under the supervision of an attorney. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law. Students enrolled in online programs must complete a portion of their legal specialty coursework of at least nine semester credits through synchronous instruction. Program Requirements
Required Courses - 30 credits Program Map
The program map is a recommended semester-by-semester schedule of courses based on degree requirements and serve as a general guideline to help students complete their program in two years. Although designed for full-time enrollment, these are easily adaptable for part-time study. For additional, individualized guidance, students should review Degree Works and consult an Academic Counselor or Faculty Advisor to ensure they are on track to complete their program.
Semester 1 (Fall) Semester 2 (Spring) Minimum Total Credits: 30 OR If first semester is spring, follow this course sequence: Semester 1 (Spring) Semester 2 (Fall) Minimum Total Credits: 30 |
Return to: Programs by School
|
|
|
