Legal Studies
Associate in Applied Science
This program prepares students to work under the supervision of an attorney in the many areas of the practice of law. Students will be prepared to perform such tasks as legal research, client interviews, investigations, preparation of legal documents, and other legal work as delegated by an attorney.
24/7
support in the ICC Academic Support Center
Students learn the knowledge and skills necessary to serve clients through the law, under the supervision of an attorney. Graduates will earn an Associate in Applied Science degree, which prepares them for immediate employment or to transfer to a four-year college for advanced studies.
Admissions Office
The ICC Legal Studies program is accredited by the American Bar Association. Students complete an internship as part of their studies.
Students can network with their peers as part of the Student Paralegal Association.
Paralegal, Legal Assistant, Law Clerk, Claims Adjustor
COMPLETION TIME
24 Months
if Full Time
5 Semesters
60 Total Credit Hours
What if I attend part-time?
Our Student Success Advisors help with an academic plan that works for you.
ESTIMATED COST
$9,300
+ supplies & fees
Based on 2024-25
What financial assistance can I receive?
Find the plan right for you by connecting with our Financial Aid office.
AVERAGE CLASS SIZE
20 Students
average per class
Small class sizes mean more individual attention and a higher rate of success.
View the College Catalog to see a complete list of classes for this program.
Meet Our Students and Alumni
ICC is the source employers have looked to for paralegals and legal assistants since 1989.
Tom Higgins, Professor – Business, Legal & Information Systems
How Do I Get Into the Legal Studies Program?
The need for paralegals has grown beyond attorneys’ offices and legal firms. Employment for paralegals and legal assistants is growing with private corporations, insurance companies, and healthcare organizations. Connect with an Admissions representative to learn how to get started.
- Complete our quick admissions application. It’s free and easy!
- Apply for financial aid (FAFSA).
- Apply for ICC Scholarships. Just 1 application for over 600 scholarships.
- High school coursework in English, math, science, and keyboarding are beneficial.
- Good communication, organizational, and research skills are necessities.
What Can I Expect as a Legal Studies Student?
- Develop valuable skills in legal research, legal writing, investigations, and interviewing.
- Earn the credential to find employment with legal firms, healthcare companies, and other major corporations.
- Graduates will earn an Associate in Applied Science degree which will prepare them for immediate employment or to transfer to a four-year program.
- Colleges of choice for transfer from ICC include University of Illinois – Springfield and Southern Illinois University – Carbondale.
How Am I Going to Manage This?
-
What if I am working while going to school?
We have you covered. Many of our students are working adults who balance life and school. We have great resources on campus to help keep you going!
-
What are my options for funding my education?
Do this first: fill out and file your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Even if you don’t want federal aid, this document is used by many scholarship and grant programs to evaluate aid packages.
Look for scholarships and grants first because usually they don’t have to be paid back. The ICC Foundation sponsors some scholarships, and grants may be available from Illinois or federal programs. Other organizations also offer scholarships, and we can help you research those opportunities.
Federally guaranteed student loans can be a smart way to fund college. Think about your transfer plans and what your career looks like. Some sources recommend that you cap your borrowing at the level of what you (realistically!) can expect to earn at your first job after college. So, research careers and pay, too.
Of course, savings, jobs, and work-study are key parts of your budget. Your employer may offer tuition reimbursement. Find the tools to make a complete plan for paying for school.