Paralegal Studies Track (B.A.S.)

The Bachelor of Applied Science with a major in Paralegal Studies degree recognizes the growing need in the paralegal profession for a four year degree.  This degree will prepare graduates to enter into and be competitive with holders of other bachelor degrees in finding gainful employment in the legal field.  Advanced paralegal courses along with the opportunity to take courses in management and business will help students utilize their specific expertise with new technology skills.

The goal of the Paralegal Program is not only to train students in the practical application of legal theory, but to fine tune their analytical, communication and organizational skills, while always being aware of the unauthorized practice of law prohibition. Paralegals must always work under the supervision and direction of a licensed attorney.
In order to achieve these goals, the program has the following specific objectives:

1. to implement and maintain a diverse and strong program for the quality education of competent paralegals;
2. to give our students not only a broad knowledge of numerous areas of law, but also specific legal skills;
3. with the knowledge and skills provided by our program, to enable our graduates to find employment by a wide range of employers in their chosen field;
4. to prepare our students to work effectively and efficiently with attorneys, clients, and the public;
5. to strengthen and enhance the skills of our students who are already employed in law-related positions;
6. to enable students to think critically, reason abstractly, use oral and written language effectively;
7. to be sure our students understand and value the important concepts of legal ethics, confidentiality, professional responsibility, and the boundaries of and prohibitation against the unauthorized practice of law by laypersons; and
8. to encourage and improve the role of non-lawyers in the delivery of legal services.

Entrance Requirements

1. Complete all GSC general institutional admissions requirements.
2. Declare a major in BAS Paralegal Studies.
3. Hold an appropriate paralegal associate degree (e.g., A.A.S. or A.A.T.) from an institution either approved by the American Bar Association or in substantial compliance with the ABA guidelines for approval of paralegal programs and regionally accredited to grant associate degrees. Students who hold associate degrees (usually A.A. or A. S.) that are designed to constitute the first two years of a B.A., B.S., B.B.A. or other traditional baccalaureate degrees will not be eligible for admission to the B.A.S. program. A student who wishes to pursue the B.A.S., but who has not yet completed a paralegal associate degree (as defined above), must finish the paralegal associate degree at Gainesville State College or another institution either approved by the American Bar Association or in substantial compliance with the ABA guidelines for approval of paralegal programs and regionally accredited to grant associate degrees, before applying for entry to the B.A.S. program.