Associate of Applied Business in Law & Paralegal Studies

As the legal system becomes ever more complex, paralegals are in greater demand than ever lawyers are increasingly turning to qualified paralegals to provide essential services. The University of Cincinnati Online’s Associate of Applied Business in Law and Paralegal Studies equips graduates with the skills needed to start and advance dynamic careers in the legal sector.

Through the fully online, American Bar Association (ABA)-approved program, you’ll learn from licensed attorneys, graduate with a solid understanding of the US legal system, and be prepared for a variety of job opportunities in a growing field.

What is a Paralegal?

Paralegals perform behind-the-scenes legal work that enables the law and court systems to make positive impacts on their communities. They function in a supportive capacity, assisting substantive tasks such as gathering facts for trial preparation, drafting legal documents, and conducting research.

Paralegals often work for private practices but are also sought in many areas of government, business, and nonprofit organizations.

Graduates will be prepared to:

• Demonstrate workplace readiness skills, including legal research and writing and various substantive areas of the law.
• Analyze and evaluate the law and modify standardized forms found in form books, pleading files, form files, or computer databases to create the appropriate work product of a typical entry-level paralegal.
• Demonstrate proficiency with legal software and other technology used in the practice of law.
• Demonstrate knowledge of legal and ethical principles that guide paralegal conduct and the role of the paralegal in the delivery of legal services.

Program Highlights:

• 100% online: no campus visits are required.
• American Bar Association-approved.
• Academic Advisor and Student Success Coordinator for every student.
• High job placement rate.
• Part-time and full-time scheduling: flexibility to balance work and family obligations while completing your degree.
• Bachelor’s degree transfer program: Graduates can transition into UC Online’s Bachelor of Science in Law & Paralegal Studies program.
• All classes are taught by well-connected licensed attorneys.
• The University of Cincinnati and all of its regional campuses are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Read more about this program in our Guide to Paralegal Studies.

Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.

Students must take at least nine semester credits or the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction.