Bachelor's in Paralegal Studies, BA

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Roosevelt University

Program Overview

Roosevelt University’s Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies prepares students for careers supporting attorneys and legal teams through practical training in legal research, document preparation, litigation, and legal technology. Offered at the Chicago campus and online, the program combines a broad liberal arts education with specialized legal courses, making it a strong choice for students interested in the legal profession, social justice, corporate legal work, or pursuing law school.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations in Law and Communication

Students build their academic and communication skills through courses such as Composition I: Critical Reading and Writing (ENG 101), Composition II: Introduction to Academic Research (ENG 102), and Public Speaking (COMM 101). They can also take What Is Law? (PARA 101), which introduces the legal profession, how laws are created, and the role of law in society.

Year 2: Ethics and Professional Responsibility

Students continue their general education studies while developing an understanding of legal ethics and professional conduct. Ethics & Professionalism (PARA 301) explores confidentiality, attorney-client privilege, conflicts of interest, and the rules governing the legal profession, helping students understand the responsibilities involved in legal support work.

Year 3: Legal Research, Writing, and Litigation

Students move into specialized courses such as Legal Research (PARA 302), Civil Law (PARA 303), Litigation I (PARA 304), and Legal Writing (PARA 325). These courses develop skills in researching legal issues, understanding civil legal procedures, preparing legal documents, and supporting litigation processes.

Year 4: Legal Technology and Professional Experience

Students deepen their practical knowledge through Advanced Litigation and E-Discovery (PARA 306) and Legal Technology (PARA 329), which cover litigation support, electronic discovery, and software used in legal workplaces. The Paralegal Internship (PARA 330) provides an opportunity to apply classroom learning in a professional setting, subject to internship selection and program approval.

The four-year progression is a general guide. Course sequencing, prerequisites, and availability may vary, so students should confirm their individual degree plan with an academic adviser.

Focus Areas

Legal research, legal writing, civil law, litigation support, legal ethics, commercial law, legal technology, electronic discovery, and specialized areas such as real estate, intellectual property, immigration law, and labor and employment law.

Learning Outcomes

Students develop the ability to research legal issues, understand substantive and procedural law, prepare and analyze legal documents, support litigation, use legal research databases and legal technology, communicate professionally, and recognize ethical responsibilities when working under an attorney's supervision.

Professional Alignment and Accreditation

Roosevelt University’s Paralegal Studies program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Students who successfully complete the degree requirements earn both a Bachelor of Arts degree and a paralegal certificate. Paralegals generally work under attorney supervision and may not provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law.

Reputation and Employability

Roosevelt University states that its paralegal program has been established for more than five decades and has held American Bar Association approval since 1976. The university highlights experienced faculty, practical internship opportunities, and career support for graduates. No specific program-level QS or Guardian employability ranking was identified in the official information reviewed.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Roosevelt University, the BA in Paralegal Studies is designed to provide students with a robust foundation in legal principles while emphasizing practical skills that are essential for success in the legal field. Our program integrates experiential learning opportunities that allow students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, ensuring they graduate not only with theoretical understanding but also with hands-on experience. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance their learning journey.

Here are some key experiential learning components of the Paralegal Studies program at Roosevelt University:

- Internships: Students have the opportunity to participate in internships with law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies, providing invaluable real-world experience.

- Legal Research and Writing: The program includes extensive training in legal research using tools like Westlaw and LexisNexis, which are essential for any paralegal.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects allow students to work in teams, simulating the collaborative nature of legal work and enhancing their communication and teamwork skills.

- Field Trips: Students often visit courthouses and legal institutions, giving them a firsthand look at the legal process and the role of paralegals in various settings.

- Access to Libraries: Roosevelt University provides access to extensive legal databases and resources through its libraries, ensuring students have the materials they need for research and study.

- Dedicated Classrooms and Labs: The program features specialized classrooms equipped with the latest technology to facilitate learning and simulate real-world legal environments.

- Networking Opportunities: Students can connect with professionals in the field through events and workshops, helping them build relationships that can lead to job opportunities after graduation.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to prepare you for a successful career in the legal field, equipping you with the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for. If you're ready to take the next step in your education and career, consider applying to the BA in Paralegal Studies at Roosevelt University.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA in Paralegal Studies at Roosevelt University are well-prepared to enter a dynamic and rewarding field. With a strong foundation in legal principles and practical skills, students can pursue various roles such as Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Compliance Officer, or Contract Administrator. The program not only equips students with essential knowledge but also connects them to valuable resources and opportunities:

- Career Services: Roosevelt offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help students secure internships and job placements.
- Employment Statistics: The program boasts a high employment rate, with many graduates finding positions within six months of graduation. The average salary for paralegals in the Chicago area is around $60,000, with potential for growth as experience increases.
- University–Industry Partnerships: Roosevelt has established partnerships with local law firms and corporations, providing students with internship opportunities and networking events that enhance their job prospects.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the American Bar Association, ensuring that the education you receive meets high standards and is recognized by employers in the legal field.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have successfully transitioned into various legal careers, with many advancing to supervisory or specialized roles within their organizations.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the BA in Paralegal Studies, students have the option to further their education by pursuing a Master’s degree in Legal Studies or a Juris Doctor (JD) program. This can open doors to even more advanced positions within the legal field, such as becoming an attorney or specializing in areas like intellectual property or corporate law. Continuing your education not only enhances your expertise but also increases your marketability in a competitive job landscape.