There are two program tracks for C.O.D.’s Paralegal Studies program. There is an Associate in Applied Studies (A.A.S.) degree track for students seeking a two-year college degree in Paralegal Studies. There is also a certificate track for those who already have a two-year degree or a degree from a baccalaureate-granting institution.

The A.A.S. degree requires 67 credit hours of coursework, including general education classes and other classes designed to provide technical and professional competence.

The certificate program requires 27 credit hours of coursework, limited to courses focusing on paralegal skills and education.

Both program tracks require a student to be accepted into the program after taking prerequisite coursework and completing a program application.

In either case, the student’s first step would be to enroll in Introduction to Paralegal Studies, PLGL 1100, which is a prerequisite for program admission.  Business Law 2211 is also a program prerequisite, which can either be taken in the same semester as PLGL 1100, or in a separate semester.  In addition, A.A.S. degree students must also take ENGLI 1101 as a program prerequisite.

After the prerequisites listed above have been taken, the student is ready to apply for official admission into the program by completing the applicable program application.  The application forms can be accessed below.  Also attached is the Reference Form, which must be completed and mailed directly to the program coordinator by the three individuals who will be providing  references.

If you have any questions, please contact Sally N. Fairbank, program coordinator, at Fairbank@cod.edu. 

Application for Admission – A.A.S. degree program (PDF)
Application for Admission – Certificate program (PDF)
Paralegal Studies Program Reference Letter Form (PDF)