Bachelor of Science (BS)

Legal Studies

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Program
Legal/Paralegal Studies

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states.  Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

To be admitted to any of the undergraduate programs at South University, the prospective student must provide proof of high school graduation as recognized by the state of residence on the date the degree was earned, or the equivalent (e.g. GED with no single test score below 145 or numeric score equivalent to 2.0 on old version or state-issued certificate designated as the equivalent of a High School Diploma) with a minimum CGPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale within 5 weeks of the start date (refer to Conditional Acceptance). The prospective student must also complete the university administered placement tests prior to the start of the first quarter for campus students and during the first session of attendance for online students. South University accepts the International Baccalaureate Program diploma as meeting the requirement for high school graduation. Credentials earned outside the United States must be evaluated by a NACES or AICE-member credential evaluation service.  Please speak with an admissions representative for more information.

Students with less than the minimum CGPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale may meet admissions requirements by submitting a minimum combined SAT (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing, and Math) score of 700 or 900 on the old SAT, a combined ACT score of 18, or meet the criteria established for acceptance as a transfer student.

Students with less than the minimum CGPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale may be admitted provisionally for two quarters. Failure to achieve a 1.5 CGPA in the first two quarters of attendance will result in dismissal.  Students may appeal the dismissal by following the Procedures for Appealing Academic/Financial Aid Dismissal Policy.

Acceptable verification of high school graduation or the equivalent would include a copy of the high school diploma, high school transcript (official or unofficial), GED certificate, or GED scores and state-authorized examination scores (ex. HiSET, TASC) or a state- issued certificate designated as the equivalent of a high school diploma. In states that maintain a database that serves as an official registry of high school and GED graduates, an excerpt from the official database documenting the student's graduation or GED completion may be used.

Campuses in South Carolina must be provided with official high school transcripts or GED scores or state-issued certificates designated as the equivalent of a high school diploma.

Please see the policy on GPA Calculation for Admission for additional information

Conditional Acceptance

Students may be conditionally accepted by submitting unofficial copies of documentation required for the admission requirements. Conditional acceptance is allowed for 5 weeks beyond the start of the student’s first session. Failure to provide acceptable, official documentation, as stated in the admissions requirements, within 5 weeks from the start date will result in the following:

  • Removal from class
  • Cancelation of enrollment
  • No final course grades
  • No transcript

Students who do not provide acceptable documents for full, unconditional acceptance within the 5 week period will not be responsible for tuition and related fees. South University may grant exceptions to the 5 week period for unusual situations or circumstances. All exceptions must be submitted to the Office of the University Registrar for approval.

Admission of Transfer Students

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states.  Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

To be eligible for admission, transfer students must complete the application procedures and satisfy the following criteria:

  1. Submit a completed application for admission.
  2. Have earned 24 or more credit hours, or the equivalent (e.g. 16 semester hours), with a cumulative GPA of 2.00 from an acceptable accredited collegiate institution.
  3. Submit official transcripts (including verifiable faxed transcripts) from all colleges and universities attended.
  4. Submit self-certification of high school graduation or GED completion.

For transfer of credit practices refer to the applicable section under the Academic Affairs section of this catalog.

To be admitted as a Transfer student into South University the prospective student must have earned 24 or more quarter credit hours or the equivalent (e.g. 16 semester hours), with a cumulative GPA of 2.00 from an acceptable accredited collegiate institution. Official transcripts from the collegiate institution(s) must be received within 5 weeks of the start date (refer to Conditional Acceptance), and who are not required to take ENG0099 and/or MAT0099, will be exempt from taking the UVC1000 Strategies for Success. Students will select another 4 credit course in consultation with their Academic Advisor or Academic Counselor to fulfill the degree requirements.

Students with 24 or more quarter credits with less than a 2.0 GPA may be admitted provisionally for two quarters.  Failure to achieve a 1.5 GPA in the first two quarters of attendance will result in dismissal.  Students may appeal the dismissal by following the Procedures for Appealing Academic/Financial Aid Dismissal Policy.

Students who are citizens of countries other than the United States should refer to the section entitled International Student Admissions Policy.

Students who are transferring from or to a school within the University of North Carolina or the North Carolina Community College System should be aware of the Comprehensive Articulation Agreement approved by both governing Boards on March 1, 1996 and revised in September of 2008. This agreement may be found in its entirety at the following website.

For additional admissions information please see the admissions section here. 

Legal/Paralegal Studies Curriculum

South University's Legal Studies (BS) and Paralegal Studies (AS) programs are designed to provide opportunities for students to prepare for a rapidly changing and challenging profession as a paralegal. The American Bar Association (ABA) defines a paralegal as "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 a lawyer is responsible." Paralegals and legal assistants may not give legal advice, set fees, represent clients in court, or provide legal services to the public except as permitted by law. All students in South University Paralegal and Legal Studies programs receive instruction in legal ethics and how to avoid the unauthorized practice of law. Paralegals and legal assistants may not give legal advice, set fees, or represent clients in court.

Coursework emphasizes development of keen analytical and critical thinking skills while fostering sensitivity to cultural and political diversity. Students use modern law office technology and software in courses taught in classrooms, computer labs, or in courses offered online through the Savannah campus. South University encourages students to commit to lifelong learning that is beneficial in obtaining employment following graduation and that may help them in advancing in their careers as paralegal professionals.

Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

Offered at Online Programs

Note: Not all Online Program offerings are available to residents of all U.S. states. Please contact an admissions representative for further information.

The Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies degree program is designed to provide students with a broad academic background in general education, fundamental theoretical legal concepts, and practical applications. This program is designed for the student who has an interest in seeking an entry-level position upon graduation or who is ready to take the next step in his or her career in the legal field. The graduate will be prepared for challenging assignments, including investigating cases, researching the law, and preparing documents for litigation or business transactions, while working under the supervision of a licensed attorney.

The coursework is designed to emphasize development of keen analytical and critical thinking skills, while fostering sensitivity to cultural and political diversity. Graduates can pursue entry-level positions as paralegals in law firms, banks, insurance companies, governmental agencies and corporations.

Program Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates will be able to: 

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of procedural law and substantive law by successfully completing advanced or specialized legal assignments performed in a law office or any organization involved with legal processes under the supervision of an attorney.
  2. Demonstrate a proficiency in the skills required for the complexities of a modern technology-based law office.
  3. Demonstrate an understanding of professional and ethical standards expected of a paralegal in a broader spectrum of legal practice. 
  4. Demonstrate enhanced communication skills, including public speaking, letter and memorandum writing, as well as complex legal drafting under the supervision of an attorney.
  5. Demonstrate advanced legal research, acute critical thinking, reasoning, and analytical approaches to legal problem solving.

Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies: 180 Credits

For students enrolled prior to August 2024.

Area I General Education Requirements: 64 Credits

Professional Development

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course is for students to obtain basic knowledge and skills in using computer office production software and Internet features. A broad range of software applications, such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, and Internet usage concepts will be covered.

Credits : 4

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Designed to help entering students develop a more effective approach to college success, this course emphasizes positive self-evaluation, goal-setting and motivation; practical skills of successful students; effective use of the library and the many sources of information available; and the concepts and tools of critical thinking, and their applications.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Basic Communications

Course Code
Title
Credits
Students will be introduced to college-level writing processes, particularly planning, researching and writing essays. Emphasis will be placed on refining individual skills, writing styles and voices, types of essay and on effective writing procedures. Selected readings supplement the course and provide topics for discussion and writing assignments. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Credits : 4

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Focusing on the construction of effective researched written argument, this course refines composition techniques, develops abstract thinking processes, and promotes critical thinking. By locating and evaluating sources and incorporating appropriately vetted academic sources into their work, students will create well-supported arguments within appropriately documented academic essays. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Credits : 4

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In this course students write analytical and critical essays about fiction, drama, and poetry. Emphasis is placed on literal and figurative interpretations, structural analysis, and variations in thematic and critical reading approaches. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
12

Choose one additional course from the list below: 

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course examines the fundamental role of communication in establishing and maintaining relationships. By surveying leading research and theories in interpersonal communication, students explore scholarly perspectives on how individuals enter into, maintain, and terminate relationships. Conceptual perspectives examined will include communicative competence, relational development, interaction process, codes, and context. This course has a prescriptive orientation, meaning that it is geared toward learning how to be a more competent communicator by being oriented towards others.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to prepare the student to develop and improve the ability to communicate. Self-expression, preparation of effective speeches, and development of speaking and listening skills will be the focus.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
4

Mathematics and Statistics (choose three)

Course Code
Title
Credits
The course is designed to develop the concepts needed for College Algebra II using graphs and applications to motivate students and provide real-world examples. The course covers the solution of systems of linear equations, exponents and polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, functions, and quadratic equations. MyMathLab or a comparable resource may be used for lecture, homework and assessment assignment delivery.

Credits : 4

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College Algebra provides students with lecture and extensive practice in the concepts required as background for Pre-Calculus and Calculus. The course emphasizes the graphs and properties of functions in general, with emphasis on linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. MyMathLab or a comparable resource may be used for lecture, homework and assessment assignment delivery.

Credits : 4

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College Mathematics covers the fundamentals of several areas of mathematics, including set theory, logic, geometry, graph theory, probability, and statistics. MyMathLab or a comparable resource may be used for lecture, homework and assessment assignment delivery.

Credits : 4

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Statistics provides students with lecture and extensive practice in the concepts of descriptive and inferential statistics. The course emphasizes practical calculation and application. It begins with sample statistics and population parameters, proceeds to measures of central tendency, dispersion, and position, introduces the least-squares best-fit line and several key probability distributions, and concludes with the sampling distribution of sampling means, and hypothesis testing. MyStatLab or a comparable resource may be required in the course.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
12

Natural Sciences (choose two)

Course Code
Title
Credits

Principles of Biology I is the first in a two-course sequence in biology. The course introduces scientific methods, biological chemistry, cells, energy for life, basic genetics, biotechnology, and the principles of evolution. Students will also complete writing assignments that develop their skills as scientifically literate citizens.

Credits : 4

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Principles of Biology II is the second course in a two course sequence in biology. This course continues the study of human biology with the role of endocrine and nervous systems in homeostatic regulation. Other topics covered are human reproduction, development, evolution, and advanced genetics. Ecological concepts are also discussed. The student will complete writing assignments that serve to increase knowledge of the scientific literature.

Credits : 4

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CHM1010 is a survey course of general chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry. Fundamental concepts and principles will be presented including atomic theory, bonding, nomenclature, solutions, acids and bases, and an introduction to organic chemistry and biochemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the application of these topics in various health fields. This overview provides the health-care worker the ability to appreciate physiological and therapeutic processes at the molecular level. The course will also explore the role of chemistry in society today by applying a problem-solving approach to understanding chemistry.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Arts and Humanities (choose two)

Course Code
Title
Credits

Organized by period, genre and theme, this course explores global viewpoints as expressed in novels, poems, plays, short fiction, and philosophical and theological works from the period of the late 17th century to the present day. Parallels and contrasts will be drawn between cultures and across time.

Credits : 4

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This course covers main themes of American history from the country's beginnings until the end of the reconstruction period following the Civil War. The concepts, chief actors, and major events of this period of time will be studied, and the student will analyze the historic concepts of cultural expansion and development found in the history of America. The process of national growth required by foreign and domestic influences will also be examined.

Credits : 4

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This course covers main themes of American history from reconstruction to the present day. The concepts, chief actors, and major events of this period of time will be studied, and the student will analyze the historic concepts of cultural expansion and development found in the history of America. The process of national growth required by foreign and domestic influences will also be examined.

Credits : 4

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This course is a history of art from the prehistoric/tribal period through the Middle Ages. Students will analyze the formal elements of each period style, as well as the historical, social, and cultural influences that shaped art at various point in history and across cultures.

Credits : 4

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This course is a history of art from the Renaissance to present day. The concepts, historical themes, and social/cultural influences on the art and architecture of the periods will be studied. Students will analyze the formal elements of each period style, as well as the external themes and influences that shaped art at various point in history and across cultures.

Credits : 4

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This course covers the major themes and events in world history from prehistoric times to 1500. The course will focus on history from a variety of perspectives: social, cultural interactions, environmental, political, economic, and the people and events that shaped our world's history. Various themes that appear across time will be explored from the perspective that all cultures and all events are influenced by the interactions with other peoples, geography, and the environment; and in turn these events influence and shape future events.

Credits : 4

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This course covers the major themes and events in world history from 1500 to the present. The course focuses on history from a variety of perspectives: social, cultural interactions, environmental, political, economic, and the people and events that shaped our world's history. Various themes that appear across time will be explored from the perspective that all cultures and all events are influenced by the interactions with other peoples, geography, and the environment; and in turn these events influence and shape future events.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces students to philosophical thinking. Students will confront fundamental questions of self and identity, of freedom and determinism, of belief and truth, and of ethics and morality. Critical thinking activities will challenge students to incorporate philosophy into their personal and professional lives by applying the questions of philosophy to themselves and their world.

Credits : 4

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This course surveys historical and contemporary world religions and religious movements from ancient to modern times. It will present the basic tenets of the belief systems of major religions and religious movements. The course will further ground the study of world religions in a variety of perspectives: social, cultural interactions, environmental, political, economic, and the people and events that influenced religious thought. This course retains a commitment to teaching religious studies as the secular study of beliefs, behaviors, and institutions in a manner that emphasizes systematic inquiry and cross-cultural perspectives.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Social and Behavioral Sciences (choose three)

Course Code
Title
Credits
Microeconomics is the study of how individuals, households and firms make decisions about consumption and production which affect the supply and demand of goods and services. Other topics include the costs of production, behavior of firms, organization of industries, economics of labor markets, and theories of consumer choice.

Credits : 4

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The study of macroeconomics includes the basic aspects of economic analysis of the business world. Students will develop an understanding of the monetary system, recession, inflation, and the main cycles of business activity

Credits : 4

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This course introduces students to the American Government. By examining the struggle for power-the participants, the stakes, the processes, and the institutional arenas — this course introduces the students to the political struggles that drive democracy.

Credits : 4

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An introduction and overview of the major principles in the field of Psychology including: mental disorders, personality, social understanding, stress and coping, learning, memory, neuroscience, and consciousness. Students will also gain a broad understanding of how these areas are interconnected from a theoretical and practical worldview in addition to scientific modes of thought about behavior. This course contains a component of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) initiative, "Keeping it Real: Classroom to Career," whose overarching goals are student success and early career engagement.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces the study of human social development and social organizations and social institutions. Students will apply sociological perspectives to examine topics such as the development of self-concept, group dynamics, social deviance, gender equality, social class, racial and ethnic relations, demography and population, the family, religion, and education.

Credits : 4

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This course exposes the student to social problems in the United States and globally. The student will learn the structural causes of social problems, the role that race/ethnicity, gender, and class play in social inequalities and the position the United States holds with respect to global social problems. Topics may include economic problems, environmental issues, problems of social inequality, deviance, and institutional problems. The student will also learn how to develop solutions to social problems.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
12

Area II Foundation Requirements: 40 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
Business Law I is a survey of American law and procedure covering the legal environment, operation of the legal system, completion of contracts, torts, constitutional law, criminal law, intellectual property and more. Both the text and case study methods may be utilized.

Credits : 4

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This course covers the law of business entities, including agencies, partnerships, and corporations. This course will also cover property concepts, sales, negotiable instruments, agency and employment law.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Elective Pool (eight courses or 32 credit hours)

Transfer students may transfer any course to help fulfill the elective pool requirements, provided the course meets the standards of the Credit for Transcripted and Non-transcripted Work policy found in the Academic Affairs section of this catalog.

Non-transfer students, with their advisor's consultation and approval may choose courses from any department recommended and listed course or more broadly from any course offered by South University. Work from other fields must include any required prerequisite courses in the elective field.

A course can be used to meet only one requirement in Area I, Area II, or Area III, but not simultaneously in two areas. Students should work with their academic advisor or counselor to be sure they are making appropriate course choices.

Sub-Total Credits
32

Area III Major Requirements: 76 Credits

Core

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course examines the American legal system with an emphasis on the methods and institutions of the law and the role of the legal assistant in the judicial system. The rights and responsibilities of paralegals, both professional and ethical, are described. Duties and opportunities for paralegals are discussed. Law office management procedures are introduced to the student. Prospective paralegals will be introduced to the practical workings of the legal system while acquiring needed skills to assist a supervising attorney. The course will focus on basic legal terminology, legal doctrines, procedures, court systems, research functions, analysis of case law and usage of computers and technology in the law office.

Credits : 4

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The course familiarizes the student with the substantive law of torts. A tort is a civil wrong, other than a breach of contract that causes injury for which our legal system provides a remedy. Concentration will be in three main areas -intentional torts, strict liability torts, and negligence law. The student will study torts related to property, personal injury and economic relations. The course will also examine various equitable remedies. Finally, students will analyze the specific elements required to establish defenses, damages, and immunities.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to familiarize students with primary and secondary sources of law; judicial reports, statutes, citators, digests, annotated law reports, legal treatises, and periodicals; legislative session laws, codifications, and histories; executive branch pronouncements (primarily regulation). The course should enable the student to undertake, under the supervision of a lawyer, legal research and preparation of memoranda, briefs, and client letters, while accurately citing research sources. The course will include an overview of the legal system and the sources of law generated by each branch of government. There will be a thorough review of citation forms, basic research skills, and legal writing exercises.

Credits : 4

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In this course, the student will continue to experience "legal method" by conducting detailed research and by preparing legal briefs and memoranda. This course is intended to enhance the basic legal method skills developed in the LGS1005 course. The concentration will be on library research, including computer- assisted and test-assisted methods, giving special emphasis to Westlaw and other legal research online databases. Students will be required to present conclusions of their research in concise, grammatically correct, well-reasoned legal briefs and memoranda.

Credits : 4

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This course examines civil procedures and the court system including the role of judges, attorneys and juries. Venue, jurisdiction and ethical considerations area studied. The course enables students, under the supervision and control of an attorney, to assist in pre-trial practice, including drafting complaints, answers and pre-trial motions; preparing witnesses, conducting preliminary investigations; and assisting in the preparation of the case for trial.

Credits : 4

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An examination of the subjects and preparation of documents for adoption, legal separation, divorce, marriage, annulment, and child visitation and custody will be made in this course. The student will be prepared to assist in the interviewing of clients and the drafting of petitions and agreements. In addition, this course is a study of the general principles of family law. The legal definition of the family is examined, as are the rights and responsibilities of each family member. The course gives a practical overview of the creation and dissolution of the family by examination of the laws relating to divorce, child custody and support, and alimony. This course also describes how technology, like the introduction of DNA testing, is changing the legal landscape of domestic law. The elements of the marital relationship are explored as well as non-ceremonial types of marriages. Also examined is the relationship of family law to other areas of the law.

Credits : 4

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This course examines the transferring of assets, trusts, wills, gifts, administration of decedents' estates, federal and state taxes and administrator's responsibilities. Students will be exposed to the practical application of estate planning through the hands-on review of considerations, problems, and documents related to this area. They will also use and become familiar with software designed to expedite the process of drafting legal documents.

Credits : 4

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This course familiarizes the student with substantive criminal law and criminal procedures. It enables the student, under the supervision of a lawyer, to prepare pre-trial pleadings, interview witnesses, and conduct trial and post-trial proceedings. This course shall contain a survey of the vast field called "criminal law." The course will begin with a discussion of the source of much of today's criminal law, the great English legal tradition of the "common law." A general review of the guiding legal principles of the criminal law, the principles of criminal liability, including the liability of multiple actors; uncompleted crimes and defenses will be carefully examined. Specific crimes such as murder, burglary, rape, arson, theft, and various "public disorder" crimes will be studied, also. Theories of prosecution and punishment will be analyzed. A discussion on computer and Internet related crimes will be discussed as well. This course should give each student a practical, useful understanding of criminal law, criminal procedure, and the criminal justice system. The use of the actual criminal laws of the state will be stressed. The roles of the various participants in the system will be explained and examined (judges, lawyers, victims, peace officers, etc.). Invited speakers will provide the students with personal accounts of their role within the system. Class discussions will stress the relationship between the material being studied by the class and the material's application to the daily functions of our community's and nation's courts.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces paralegal students to the uses of computer software in the law office including drafting legal documents, legal timekeeping and billing, docket control and litigation support. Other specialized legal software is introduced as appropriate. During hands-on training with macros, merges and tables, the student will use the advanced features of software document assembly and office procedure programs to complete complex operations and save time in the law office. Students will learn how to design, maintain and complete forms processing. Organizing the computer directories and files for easy retrieval and use in the law office will be covered. The course will, additionally cover Power Point presentations for trial.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed for paralegal and legal studies majors to validate their skills through a 120-hour supervised, unpaid externship experience local to them in a private legal office, government legal department, corporate legal department, or other legally related sites where they perform legal and administrative duties appropriate to the field in a professional manner. Students are required to attend regularly scheduled class meetings to interact with other students in the externship and the externship coordinator. Here, they will complete assignments, prepare a portfolio and submit a final written report. Students are required to find the externship site and seek approval from the department chair a quarter before enrolling in the course. A final grade of “C” or better is required to receive a paralegal or legal studies degree and placement assistance. Failure to attain the required grade will necessitate repeating the externship.

Credits : 4

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This is an intensive drafting course where students have the opportunity to concentrate on preparing complex pleadings and motions relating to the pre-trial, trial, and appeal processes. The focus is on developing practical skills and the legal analysis necessary to identify and pursue an appropriate cause of action in a civil case.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the legal relationship between the employer and the employee. Areas covered include federal and state laws governing discrimination, wrongful termination, unionization, and privacy. Students will get practical experience in drafting an employment policy manual that addresses sexual harassment, Americans with Disabilities Act, and other employment issues. Other topics studied include preemployment concerns, employee benefits, and other ethical issues in employment law.

Credits : 4

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This capstone class will be conducted in a seminar format where students can apply their broad knowledge of the paralegal profession through specific projects integrating work related competencies with academic information. Students will review the various skills learned in the legal studies curriculum and take a comprehensive outcome assessment exam. The major objective of this course is successful completion of the capstone project.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
56

Electives (choose two)

Course Code
Title
Credits

This course develops the student's understanding of ownership, deeds, mortgages, easements, landlord/tenant relations, liens and eviction procedures. An examination is made of the mechanics of transferring interest in real property. It deals with the nature of real property interests, sources of law, methods of conveyance, the financing of real estate transactions, contracts for sale, methods of encumbering property, the role of the real estate broker, title searches, title insurance and real estate closings. Emphasis is placed upon local laws and methods of practice, including the use of present-day technology. Further, the course is designed to teach the prospective paralegal how to assist an attorney in closing a real estate transaction.

Credits : 4

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This course is a detailed study of worker's compensation law covering the procedures used to initiate and process worker's compensation claims. Students will have the opportunity to draft relevant forms as well as to study employer responsibility, risk management, and litigation. Worker's compensation laws are designed to ensure that employees who are injured or disabled on the job are provided with fixed monetary awards, eliminating the need for litigation. These laws also provide benefits for dependents of those workers who are killed because of work-related accidents or illnesses. Some laws also protect employers and fellow workers by limiting the amount an injured employee can recover from an employer and by eliminating the liability of co-workers in most accidents. State worker's compensation statutes establish this framework for most employment. Federal statutes are limited to federal employees or those workers employed in some significant aspect of interstate commerce.

Credits : 4

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This course provides an overview of the federal bankruptcy law and rights of creditors and debtors. Emphasis is placed upon bankruptcy procedures in Chapter 7, 11, 12, and 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Upon completion, students under the supervision of an attorney should be able to prepare and file bankruptcy forms, collection letters, and UCC search and post-judgment collection such as garnishment.

Credits : 4

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This course presents basic concepts of administrative law and procedure in federal and state agencies. Topics include representing clients before administrative bodies, agency operation, adjudication, constitutional questions, statutory issues, and appeals. Students will learn both formal and informal advocacy techniques. This course will offer a practical approach to administrative law with hands on learning of documents, forms, and the legal theories behind them.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Electives (choose three)

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course will acquaint the student with the principles, laws, and organizations that impact on the management of an international business transaction. Topics include basic principles, such as human rights, treaties, sovereign immunity and dispute resolution that govern relations between nations. At the end of this course, students will be able to analyze the risks involved in international trade and to create an import/export business. As an introduction to the study of international business law, the student will study the function and importance of public international law as well as the role of public and private international organizations in setting standards and guidelines for international business.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to give the student a basic understanding of constitutional law. The course will provide an overview of the Constitution itself, coupled with the beliefs and purpose of its framers. We will also examine the ongoing controversies over jurisprudence of original intent versus the evolutionary interpretation of the Constitution. Topics covered will include separation of powers in the national government, regulation of commerce, taxing and spending powers, war and national defense, conduct of foreign relations, state and local powers, limitations on the exercise of government powers, and the bill of rights.

Credits : 4

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This is a practical course on immigration law and procedures including the history and administration of US immigration law. Topics include citizenship, admission to the U.S., and refugees, and political asylum. Students will gain experience in filling out numerous immigration forms, including application for naturalization and application for employment authorization.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in basic concepts of contract law from formation of contracts (offer, acceptance, consideration, capacity, intent and mistake) to more complex issues presented by advancements in technology in business and the law. Students will learn to analyze a variety of contracts, develop defenses to breach of contract claims and handle "bad faith" claims that paralegals face in modern legal or business offices. Upon completion of the course students will be able to draft a contract, identify various defenses and identify ways of voiding a contract.

Credits : 4

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This course mixes the study of our constitution and common law in regard to the procedural steps in a criminal prosecution from arrest through trial. Pre-Trial through Post -trial motions and remedies are also covered. The primarily focus is based on criminal defense since the cases studied apply equally to the defense and prosecution. Students will review at least one pivotal US Supreme Court case in each chapter and apply the law to hypothetical situations presented in the text. Discussion Questions and Hypothetical Questions are presented in each chapter to sharpen student's critical thinking skills so they will understand the procedural safeguards that stem from the federal constitution.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to provide a thorough study of the rules of evidence. Emphasis will be placed on application of the rules in preparing and presenting evidence for trial. We will examine the role evidence plays in the legal system and the paralegals responsibility in finding, collecting, handling, labeling, and preparing evidence for litigation. Each assignment will be designed for coverage in a single class period; however, occasionally an assignment will require additional time. As class time and circumstances permit, support assignments of library materials may be given.

Credits : 4

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This course is an advanced study of real property law relating to title examination, foreclosures, and preparation of commercial closing documents. There is an emphasis on practical work including examination of titles by obtaining information from the public records and drafting title insurance forms. By studying problems, techniques, and solutions, transactional matters will be covered. Course coverage should include the study of condominiums, planned unit developments, mortgage financing problems, and construction liens. This in-depth course in real estate law will integrate traditional learning with computerized data research and document assembly programs.

Credits : 4

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The purpose of this course is to explore electronically stored information (ESI) with an emphasis on managing ESI. Students will analyze the leading cases, existing and pending rules, and prepare several drafting assignments, including motions and supporting memoranda. Student will learn about emerging technologies of electronic filing of court documents with an understanding of the architecture and usability of popular litigation support and trial presentation software used currently in law offices. Students will be given different client scenarios and generate associated legal content.

Credits : 4

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This course is a thorough overview of the government systems that form environmental policy. This course covers the federal environmental statutes, including National Environmental Policy Act, Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, Toxic Substances Control Act, Resources Conservation and Recovery Act and Clean Air Act. Administrative procedures used to enforce the various domestic and international laws additionally will be covered. This course will provide students with a working knowledge of the laws that have the most practical significance for practicing environmental lawyers and paralegals.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces paralegal students to the legal environment of cyberlaw in law firms, businesses and governmental agencies. Cyberlaw transcends many areas of legal practice. Responsibility for managing digital data is increasingly being delegated to paralegals working under the supervision of licensed attorneys. In the twenty-first century attorneys, businesses, and governmental agencies frequently utilize electronic communications to transmit documents. On-line aspects of business include contract formation and signing, intellectual property protections, tort law and invasions of privacy, security and encryption and the proper creation, protection and use of software. This course covers topics that paralegals employed in such firms would benefit from in the digital age.

Credits : 4

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This course explores the areas of patent, trademark and copyright and how they are bound up with antitrust law and government regulations. Topics include competition among businesses and protection of intellectual property in the global market place. Students will apply substantive legal concepts to protection of intellectual property, including poetry, lyrics, advertising, inventions, and product names.

Credits : 4

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This course is a supervised practical experience in a law firm, corporate legal department, or government entity. It provides the student with the opportunity to make a transition from classroom knowledge and theory to practical applications. This course is highly recommended for students who have never worked in a legal setting. The goal of this class is to assist legal studies students in bridging the gap between the classroom and the world of legal offices, corporations, public agencies, and organizations, i.e. the legal assistant's "work world." Students are expected to complete 120 total hours at the internship site.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
12

Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies: 180 Credits

For students enrolled on or after August 2024.

Area I General Education Requirements: 64 Credits

Professional Development

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course is for students to obtain basic knowledge and skills in using computer office production software and Internet features. A broad range of software applications, such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, and Internet usage concepts will be covered.

Credits : 4

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Designed to help entering students develop a more effective approach to college success, this course emphasizes positive self-evaluation, goal-setting and motivation; practical skills of successful students; effective use of the library and the many sources of information available; and the concepts and tools of critical thinking, and their applications.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Basic Communications

Course Code
Title
Credits
Students will be introduced to college-level writing processes, particularly planning, researching and writing essays. Emphasis will be placed on refining individual skills, writing styles and voices, types of essay and on effective writing procedures. Selected readings supplement the course and provide topics for discussion and writing assignments. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Credits : 4

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Focusing on the construction of effective researched written argument, this course refines composition techniques, develops abstract thinking processes, and promotes critical thinking. By locating and evaluating sources and incorporating appropriately vetted academic sources into their work, students will create well-supported arguments within appropriately documented academic essays. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Choose one additional course from the list below: 

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course examines the fundamental role of communication in establishing and maintaining relationships. By surveying leading research and theories in interpersonal communication, students explore scholarly perspectives on how individuals enter into, maintain, and terminate relationships. Conceptual perspectives examined will include communicative competence, relational development, interaction process, codes, and context. This course has a prescriptive orientation, meaning that it is geared toward learning how to be a more competent communicator by being oriented towards others.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to prepare the student to develop and improve the ability to communicate. Self-expression, preparation of effective speeches, and development of speaking and listening skills will be the focus.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
4

Mathematics and Statistics (choose three)

Course Code
Title
Credits
The course is designed to develop the concepts needed for College Algebra II using graphs and applications to motivate students and provide real-world examples. The course covers the solution of systems of linear equations, exponents and polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, functions, and quadratic equations. MyMathLab or a comparable resource may be used for lecture, homework and assessment assignment delivery.

Credits : 4

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College Algebra provides students with lecture and extensive practice in the concepts required as background for Pre-Calculus and Calculus. The course emphasizes the graphs and properties of functions in general, with emphasis on linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. MyMathLab or a comparable resource may be used for lecture, homework and assessment assignment delivery.

Credits : 4

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College Mathematics covers the fundamentals of several areas of mathematics, including set theory, logic, geometry, graph theory, probability, and statistics. MyMathLab or a comparable resource may be used for lecture, homework and assessment assignment delivery.

Credits : 4

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Statistics provides students with lecture and extensive practice in the concepts of descriptive and inferential statistics. The course emphasizes practical calculation and application. It begins with sample statistics and population parameters, proceeds to measures of central tendency, dispersion, and position, introduces the least-squares best-fit line and several key probability distributions, and concludes with the sampling distribution of sampling means, and hypothesis testing. MyStatLab or a comparable resource may be required in the course.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
12

Natural Sciences (choose two)

Course Code
Title
Credits

Principles of Biology I is the first in a two-course sequence in biology. The course introduces scientific methods, biological chemistry, cells, energy for life, basic genetics, biotechnology, and the principles of evolution. Students will also complete writing assignments that develop their skills as scientifically literate citizens.

Credits : 4

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Principles of Biology II is the second course in a two course sequence in biology. This course continues the study of human biology with the role of endocrine and nervous systems in homeostatic regulation. Other topics covered are human reproduction, development, evolution, and advanced genetics. Ecological concepts are also discussed. The student will complete writing assignments that serve to increase knowledge of the scientific literature.

Credits : 4

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CHM1010 is a survey course of general chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry. Fundamental concepts and principles will be presented including atomic theory, bonding, nomenclature, solutions, acids and bases, and an introduction to organic chemistry and biochemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the application of these topics in various health fields. This overview provides the health-care worker the ability to appreciate physiological and therapeutic processes at the molecular level. The course will also explore the role of chemistry in society today by applying a problem-solving approach to understanding chemistry.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Arts and Humanities

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course introduces the study of human social development, social organizations and social institutions by looking at our own self as the investigated or member of the society. Students will apply sociological perspectives to examine themselves around the development of self-concept, group dynamics, gender equality, social class, racial and ethnic relations, demography and population, the family, religion, and education. Through open discussion of current societal events, students will explore the constructs and consequences of diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
4

Social and Behavioral Sciences (choose three)

Course Code
Title
Credits
Microeconomics is the study of how individuals, households and firms make decisions about consumption and production which affect the supply and demand of goods and services. Other topics include the costs of production, behavior of firms, organization of industries, economics of labor markets, and theories of consumer choice.

Credits : 4

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The study of macroeconomics includes the basic aspects of economic analysis of the business world. Students will develop an understanding of the monetary system, recession, inflation, and the main cycles of business activity

Credits : 4

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This course introduces students to the American Government. By examining the struggle for power-the participants, the stakes, the processes, and the institutional arenas — this course introduces the students to the political struggles that drive democracy.

Credits : 4

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An introduction and overview of the major principles in the field of Psychology including: mental disorders, personality, social understanding, stress and coping, learning, memory, neuroscience, and consciousness. Students will also gain a broad understanding of how these areas are interconnected from a theoretical and practical worldview in addition to scientific modes of thought about behavior. This course contains a component of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) initiative, "Keeping it Real: Classroom to Career," whose overarching goals are student success and early career engagement.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces the study of human social development and social organizations and social institutions. Students will apply sociological perspectives to examine topics such as the development of self-concept, group dynamics, social deviance, gender equality, social class, racial and ethnic relations, demography and population, the family, religion, and education.

Credits : 4

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This course exposes the student to social problems in the United States and globally. The student will learn the structural causes of social problems, the role that race/ethnicity, gender, and class play in social inequalities and the position the United States holds with respect to global social problems. Topics may include economic problems, environmental issues, problems of social inequality, deviance, and institutional problems. The student will also learn how to develop solutions to social problems.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
12

Choose any two additional General Education electives not already applied:

Course Code
Title
Credits

Principles of Biology I is the first in a two-course sequence in biology. The course introduces scientific methods, biological chemistry, cells, energy for life, basic genetics, biotechnology, and the principles of evolution. Students will also complete writing assignments that develop their skills as scientifically literate citizens.

Credits : 4

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Principles of Biology II is the second course in a two course sequence in biology. This course continues the study of human biology with the role of endocrine and nervous systems in homeostatic regulation. Other topics covered are human reproduction, development, evolution, and advanced genetics. Ecological concepts are also discussed. The student will complete writing assignments that serve to increase knowledge of the scientific literature.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

CHM1010 is a survey course of general chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry. Fundamental concepts and principles will be presented including atomic theory, bonding, nomenclature, solutions, acids and bases, and an introduction to organic chemistry and biochemistry. Emphasis will be placed on the application of these topics in various health fields. This overview provides the health-care worker the ability to appreciate physiological and therapeutic processes at the molecular level. The course will also explore the role of chemistry in society today by applying a problem-solving approach to understanding chemistry.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course examines the fundamental role of communication in establishing and maintaining relationships. By surveying leading research and theories in interpersonal communication, students explore scholarly perspectives on how individuals enter into, maintain, and terminate relationships. Conceptual perspectives examined will include communicative competence, relational development, interaction process, codes, and context. This course has a prescriptive orientation, meaning that it is geared toward learning how to be a more competent communicator by being oriented towards others.

Credits : 4

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In this course students write analytical and critical essays about fiction, drama, and poetry. Emphasis is placed on literal and figurative interpretations, structural analysis, and variations in thematic and critical reading approaches. A minimum grade of C is required to pass this course.

Credits : 4

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Organized by period, genre and theme, this course explores global viewpoints as expressed in novels, poems, plays, short fiction, and philosophical and theological works from the period of the late 17th century to the present day. Parallels and contrasts will be drawn between cultures and across time.

Credits : 4

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Organized by period, genre and theme, this course explores contemporary viewpoints as expressed by select film screenings from the Criterion Collection through Alexander Street Press (subscription held by South University), which can range from the crusading pastiche by Ingmar Bergman's The Seventh Seal (1957) to the sardonic humor of Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979) and even the postmodern and magical realism of Being John Malkovich (1999). Parallels and contrasts will be drawn between intellectual history and cultures across flexible time stamps. Further, this course is designed to provide a foundation for future film study; exposure to a wide range of cinematic styles and approaches; and to move the student from a passive observer toward a critical, active "reader" of film. Students will learn the elements of cinematic language (including narrative, mise-en-scene, cinematography, acting, editing, and sound) and will use that knowledge to analyze the way filmmakers convey information, story, and meaning, develop style, and elicit audience response within a single scene and over the course of an entire feature film. Students should be aware that that the films they will watch will hold a variety of ratings, from G to R, and that some films will contain scenes with sexual and violent content.

Credits : 4

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This course covers main themes of American history from the country's beginnings until the end of the reconstruction period following the Civil War. The concepts, chief actors, and major events of this period of time will be studied, and the student will analyze the historic concepts of cultural expansion and development found in the history of America. The process of national growth required by foreign and domestic influences will also be examined.

Credits : 4

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This course covers main themes of American history from reconstruction to the present day. The concepts, chief actors, and major events of this period of time will be studied, and the student will analyze the historic concepts of cultural expansion and development found in the history of America. The process of national growth required by foreign and domestic influences will also be examined.

Credits : 4

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This course is a history of art from the prehistoric/tribal period through the Middle Ages. Students will analyze the formal elements of each period style, as well as the historical, social, and cultural influences that shaped art at various point in history and across cultures.

Credits : 4

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This course is a history of art from the Renaissance to present day. The concepts, historical themes, and social/cultural influences on the art and architecture of the periods will be studied. Students will analyze the formal elements of each period style, as well as the external themes and influences that shaped art at various point in history and across cultures.

Credits : 4

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This course covers the major themes and events in world history from prehistoric times to 1500. The course will focus on history from a variety of perspectives: social, cultural interactions, environmental, political, economic, and the people and events that shaped our world's history. Various themes that appear across time will be explored from the perspective that all cultures and all events are influenced by the interactions with other peoples, geography, and the environment; and in turn these events influence and shape future events.

Credits : 4

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This course covers the major themes and events in world history from 1500 to the present. The course focuses on history from a variety of perspectives: social, cultural interactions, environmental, political, economic, and the people and events that shaped our world's history. Various themes that appear across time will be explored from the perspective that all cultures and all events are influenced by the interactions with other peoples, geography, and the environment; and in turn these events influence and shape future events.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces students to philosophical thinking. Students will confront fundamental questions of self and identity, of freedom and determinism, of belief and truth, and of ethics and morality. Critical thinking activities will challenge students to incorporate philosophy into their personal and professional lives by applying the questions of philosophy to themselves and their world.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces students to the American Government. By examining the struggle for power-the participants, the stakes, the processes, and the institutional arenas — this course introduces the students to the political struggles that drive democracy.

Credits : 4

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An introduction and overview of the major principles in the field of Psychology including: mental disorders, personality, social understanding, stress and coping, learning, memory, neuroscience, and consciousness. Students will also gain a broad understanding of how these areas are interconnected from a theoretical and practical worldview in addition to scientific modes of thought about behavior. This course contains a component of the Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP) initiative, "Keeping it Real: Classroom to Career," whose overarching goals are student success and early career engagement.

Credits : 4

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This course surveys historical and contemporary world religions and religious movements from ancient to modern times. It will present the basic tenets of the belief systems of major religions and religious movements. The course will further ground the study of world religions in a variety of perspectives: social, cultural interactions, environmental, political, economic, and the people and events that influenced religious thought. This course retains a commitment to teaching religious studies as the secular study of beliefs, behaviors, and institutions in a manner that emphasizes systematic inquiry and cross-cultural perspectives.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces the study of human social development and social organizations and social institutions. Students will apply sociological perspectives to examine topics such as the development of self-concept, group dynamics, social deviance, gender equality, social class, racial and ethnic relations, demography and population, the family, religion, and education.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course exposes the student to social problems in the United States and globally. The student will learn the structural causes of social problems, the role that race/ethnicity, gender, and class play in social inequalities and the position the United States holds with respect to global social problems. Topics may include economic problems, environmental issues, problems of social inequality, deviance, and institutional problems. The student will also learn how to develop solutions to social problems.

Credits : 4

View Full Course

This course is designed to prepare the student to develop and improve the ability to communicate. Self-expression, preparation of effective speeches, and development of speaking and listening skills will be the focus.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
88

Area II Foundation Requirements: 40 Credits

Course Code
Title
Credits
Business Law I is a survey of American law and procedure covering the legal environment, operation of the legal system, completion of contracts, torts, constitutional law, criminal law, intellectual property and more. Both the text and case study methods may be utilized.

Credits : 4

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This course covers the law of business entities, including agencies, partnerships, and corporations. This course will also cover property concepts, sales, negotiable instruments, agency and employment law.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Elective Pool (eight courses or 32 credit hours)

Transfer students may transfer any course to help fulfill the elective pool requirements, provided the course meets the standards of the Credit for Transcripted and Non-transcripted Work policy found in the Academic Affairs section of this catalog.

Non-transfer students, with their advisor's consultation and approval may choose courses from any department recommended and listed course or more broadly from any course offered by South University. Work from other fields must include any required prerequisite courses in the elective field.

A course can be used to meet only one requirement in Area I, Area II, or Area III, but not simultaneously in two areas. Students should work with their academic advisor or counselor to be sure they are making appropriate course choices.

Sub-Total Credits
32

Area III Major Requirements: 76 Credits

Core

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course examines the American legal system with an emphasis on the methods and institutions of the law and the role of the legal assistant in the judicial system. The rights and responsibilities of paralegals, both professional and ethical, are described. Duties and opportunities for paralegals are discussed. Law office management procedures are introduced to the student. Prospective paralegals will be introduced to the practical workings of the legal system while acquiring needed skills to assist a supervising attorney. The course will focus on basic legal terminology, legal doctrines, procedures, court systems, research functions, analysis of case law and usage of computers and technology in the law office.

Credits : 4

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The course familiarizes the student with the substantive law of torts. A tort is a civil wrong, other than a breach of contract that causes injury for which our legal system provides a remedy. Concentration will be in three main areas -intentional torts, strict liability torts, and negligence law. The student will study torts related to property, personal injury and economic relations. The course will also examine various equitable remedies. Finally, students will analyze the specific elements required to establish defenses, damages, and immunities.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to familiarize students with primary and secondary sources of law; judicial reports, statutes, citators, digests, annotated law reports, legal treatises, and periodicals; legislative session laws, codifications, and histories; executive branch pronouncements (primarily regulation). The course should enable the student to undertake, under the supervision of a lawyer, legal research and preparation of memoranda, briefs, and client letters, while accurately citing research sources. The course will include an overview of the legal system and the sources of law generated by each branch of government. There will be a thorough review of citation forms, basic research skills, and legal writing exercises.

Credits : 4

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In this course, the student will continue to experience "legal method" by conducting detailed research and by preparing legal briefs and memoranda. This course is intended to enhance the basic legal method skills developed in the LGS1005 course. The concentration will be on library research, including computer- assisted and test-assisted methods, giving special emphasis to Westlaw and other legal research online databases. Students will be required to present conclusions of their research in concise, grammatically correct, well-reasoned legal briefs and memoranda.

Credits : 4

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This course examines civil procedures and the court system including the role of judges, attorneys and juries. Venue, jurisdiction and ethical considerations area studied. The course enables students, under the supervision and control of an attorney, to assist in pre-trial practice, including drafting complaints, answers and pre-trial motions; preparing witnesses, conducting preliminary investigations; and assisting in the preparation of the case for trial.

Credits : 4

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An examination of the subjects and preparation of documents for adoption, legal separation, divorce, marriage, annulment, and child visitation and custody will be made in this course. The student will be prepared to assist in the interviewing of clients and the drafting of petitions and agreements. In addition, this course is a study of the general principles of family law. The legal definition of the family is examined, as are the rights and responsibilities of each family member. The course gives a practical overview of the creation and dissolution of the family by examination of the laws relating to divorce, child custody and support, and alimony. This course also describes how technology, like the introduction of DNA testing, is changing the legal landscape of domestic law. The elements of the marital relationship are explored as well as non-ceremonial types of marriages. Also examined is the relationship of family law to other areas of the law.

Credits : 4

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This course examines the transferring of assets, trusts, wills, gifts, administration of decedents' estates, federal and state taxes and administrator's responsibilities. Students will be exposed to the practical application of estate planning through the hands-on review of considerations, problems, and documents related to this area. They will also use and become familiar with software designed to expedite the process of drafting legal documents.

Credits : 4

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This course familiarizes the student with substantive criminal law and criminal procedures. It enables the student, under the supervision of a lawyer, to prepare pre-trial pleadings, interview witnesses, and conduct trial and post-trial proceedings. This course shall contain a survey of the vast field called "criminal law." The course will begin with a discussion of the source of much of today's criminal law, the great English legal tradition of the "common law." A general review of the guiding legal principles of the criminal law, the principles of criminal liability, including the liability of multiple actors; uncompleted crimes and defenses will be carefully examined. Specific crimes such as murder, burglary, rape, arson, theft, and various "public disorder" crimes will be studied, also. Theories of prosecution and punishment will be analyzed. A discussion on computer and Internet related crimes will be discussed as well. This course should give each student a practical, useful understanding of criminal law, criminal procedure, and the criminal justice system. The use of the actual criminal laws of the state will be stressed. The roles of the various participants in the system will be explained and examined (judges, lawyers, victims, peace officers, etc.). Invited speakers will provide the students with personal accounts of their role within the system. Class discussions will stress the relationship between the material being studied by the class and the material's application to the daily functions of our community's and nation's courts.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces paralegal students to the uses of computer software in the law office including drafting legal documents, legal timekeeping and billing, docket control and litigation support. Other specialized legal software is introduced as appropriate. During hands-on training with macros, merges and tables, the student will use the advanced features of software document assembly and office procedure programs to complete complex operations and save time in the law office. Students will learn how to design, maintain and complete forms processing. Organizing the computer directories and files for easy retrieval and use in the law office will be covered. The course will, additionally cover Power Point presentations for trial.

Credits : 4

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This is an intensive drafting course where students have the opportunity to concentrate on preparing complex pleadings and motions relating to the pre-trial, trial, and appeal processes. The focus is on developing practical skills and the legal analysis necessary to identify and pursue an appropriate cause of action in a civil case.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to provide students with an overview of the legal relationship between the employer and the employee. Areas covered include federal and state laws governing discrimination, wrongful termination, unionization, and privacy. Students will get practical experience in drafting an employment policy manual that addresses sexual harassment, Americans with Disabilities Act, and other employment issues. Other topics studied include preemployment concerns, employee benefits, and other ethical issues in employment law.

Credits : 4

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This capstone class will be conducted in a seminar format where students can apply their broad knowledge of the paralegal profession through specific projects integrating work related competencies with academic information. Students will review the various skills learned in the legal studies curriculum and take a comprehensive outcome assessment exam. The major objective of this course is successful completion of the capstone project.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
52

Electives (choose three)

Course Code
Title
Credits

This course develops the student's understanding of ownership, deeds, mortgages, easements, landlord/tenant relations, liens and eviction procedures. An examination is made of the mechanics of transferring interest in real property. It deals with the nature of real property interests, sources of law, methods of conveyance, the financing of real estate transactions, contracts for sale, methods of encumbering property, the role of the real estate broker, title searches, title insurance and real estate closings. Emphasis is placed upon local laws and methods of practice, including the use of present-day technology. Further, the course is designed to teach the prospective paralegal how to assist an attorney in closing a real estate transaction.

Credits : 4

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This course is a detailed study of worker's compensation law covering the procedures used to initiate and process worker's compensation claims. Students will have the opportunity to draft relevant forms as well as to study employer responsibility, risk management, and litigation. Worker's compensation laws are designed to ensure that employees who are injured or disabled on the job are provided with fixed monetary awards, eliminating the need for litigation. These laws also provide benefits for dependents of those workers who are killed because of work-related accidents or illnesses. Some laws also protect employers and fellow workers by limiting the amount an injured employee can recover from an employer and by eliminating the liability of co-workers in most accidents. State worker's compensation statutes establish this framework for most employment. Federal statutes are limited to federal employees or those workers employed in some significant aspect of interstate commerce.

Credits : 4

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This course provides an overview of the federal bankruptcy law and rights of creditors and debtors. Emphasis is placed upon bankruptcy procedures in Chapter 7, 11, 12, and 13 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Upon completion, students under the supervision of an attorney should be able to prepare and file bankruptcy forms, collection letters, and UCC search and post-judgment collection such as garnishment.

Credits : 4

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This course presents basic concepts of administrative law and procedure in federal and state agencies. Topics include representing clients before administrative bodies, agency operation, adjudication, constitutional questions, statutory issues, and appeals. Students will learn both formal and informal advocacy techniques. This course will offer a practical approach to administrative law with hands on learning of documents, forms, and the legal theories behind them.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed for paralegal and legal studies majors to validate their skills through a 60-hour supervised internship experience local to them in a private legal office, government legal department, corporate legal department, or other legally related site where they perform legal and administrative duties appropriate to the field in a professional manner. Students are required to attend regularly scheduled class meetings to interact with other paralegal interns and the internship coordinator. Here, they will complete assignments and submit a final written report. Students are required to find the internship site and seek approval from the department chair a quarter or term before enrolling in the course. A final grade of “C” or better is required.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
8

Electives (choose three)

Course Code
Title
Credits
This course will acquaint the student with the principles, laws, and organizations that impact on the management of an international business transaction. Topics include basic principles, such as human rights, treaties, sovereign immunity and dispute resolution that govern relations between nations. At the end of this course, students will be able to analyze the risks involved in international trade and to create an import/export business. As an introduction to the study of international business law, the student will study the function and importance of public international law as well as the role of public and private international organizations in setting standards and guidelines for international business.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to give the student a basic understanding of constitutional law. The course will provide an overview of the Constitution itself, coupled with the beliefs and purpose of its framers. We will also examine the ongoing controversies over jurisprudence of original intent versus the evolutionary interpretation of the Constitution. Topics covered will include separation of powers in the national government, regulation of commerce, taxing and spending powers, war and national defense, conduct of foreign relations, state and local powers, limitations on the exercise of government powers, and the bill of rights.

Credits : 4

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This is a practical course on immigration law and procedures including the history and administration of US immigration law. Topics include citizenship, admission to the U.S., and refugees, and political asylum. Students will gain experience in filling out numerous immigration forms, including application for naturalization and application for employment authorization.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in basic concepts of contract law from formation of contracts (offer, acceptance, consideration, capacity, intent and mistake) to more complex issues presented by advancements in technology in business and the law. Students will learn to analyze a variety of contracts, develop defenses to breach of contract claims and handle "bad faith" claims that paralegals face in modern legal or business offices. Upon completion of the course students will be able to draft a contract, identify various defenses and identify ways of voiding a contract.

Credits : 4

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This course mixes the study of our constitution and common law in regard to the procedural steps in a criminal prosecution from arrest through trial. Pre-Trial through Post -trial motions and remedies are also covered. The primarily focus is based on criminal defense since the cases studied apply equally to the defense and prosecution. Students will review at least one pivotal US Supreme Court case in each chapter and apply the law to hypothetical situations presented in the text. Discussion Questions and Hypothetical Questions are presented in each chapter to sharpen student's critical thinking skills so they will understand the procedural safeguards that stem from the federal constitution.

Credits : 4

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This course is designed to provide a thorough study of the rules of evidence. Emphasis will be placed on application of the rules in preparing and presenting evidence for trial. We will examine the role evidence plays in the legal system and the paralegals responsibility in finding, collecting, handling, labeling, and preparing evidence for litigation. Each assignment will be designed for coverage in a single class period; however, occasionally an assignment will require additional time. As class time and circumstances permit, support assignments of library materials may be given.

Credits : 4

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This course is an advanced study of real property law relating to title examination, foreclosures, and preparation of commercial closing documents. There is an emphasis on practical work including examination of titles by obtaining information from the public records and drafting title insurance forms. By studying problems, techniques, and solutions, transactional matters will be covered. Course coverage should include the study of condominiums, planned unit developments, mortgage financing problems, and construction liens. This in-depth course in real estate law will integrate traditional learning with computerized data research and document assembly programs.

Credits : 4

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The purpose of this course is to explore electronically stored information (ESI) with an emphasis on managing ESI. Students will analyze the leading cases, existing and pending rules, and prepare several drafting assignments, including motions and supporting memoranda. Student will learn about emerging technologies of electronic filing of court documents with an understanding of the architecture and usability of popular litigation support and trial presentation software used currently in law offices. Students will be given different client scenarios and generate associated legal content.

Credits : 4

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This course is a thorough overview of the government systems that form environmental policy. This course covers the federal environmental statutes, including National Environmental Policy Act, Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act, Endangered Species Act, Clean Water Act, Toxic Substances Control Act, Resources Conservation and Recovery Act and Clean Air Act. Administrative procedures used to enforce the various domestic and international laws additionally will be covered. This course will provide students with a working knowledge of the laws that have the most practical significance for practicing environmental lawyers and paralegals.

Credits : 4

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This course introduces paralegal students to the legal environment of cyberlaw in law firms, businesses and governmental agencies. Cyberlaw transcends many areas of legal practice. Responsibility for managing digital data is increasingly being delegated to paralegals working under the supervision of licensed attorneys. In the twenty-first century attorneys, businesses, and governmental agencies frequently utilize electronic communications to transmit documents. On-line aspects of business include contract formation and signing, intellectual property protections, tort law and invasions of privacy, security and encryption and the proper creation, protection and use of software. This course covers topics that paralegals employed in such firms would benefit from in the digital age.

Credits : 4

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This course explores the areas of patent, trademark and copyright and how they are bound up with antitrust law and government regulations. Topics include competition among businesses and protection of intellectual property in the global market place. Students will apply substantive legal concepts to protection of intellectual property, including poetry, lyrics, advertising, inventions, and product names.

Credits : 4

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This course is a supervised practical experience in a law firm, corporate legal department, or government entity. It provides the student with the opportunity to make a transition from classroom knowledge and theory to practical applications. This course is highly recommended for students who have never worked in a legal setting. The goal of this class is to assist legal studies students in bridging the gap between the classroom and the world of legal offices, corporations, public agencies, and organizations, i.e. the legal assistant's "work world." Students are expected to complete 120 total hours at the internship site.

Credits : 4

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Sub-Total Credits
12
Total Credits
180