Associate Degree in Law (Paralegal Studies)
Southern Cross University
About
Paralegals are a highly-valued part of the legal sector and there is increasing demand for paralegal professionals who can think outside the box.This course will get you working in law quickly and lays the foundation for career progression.
As you explore the Australian legal system, you will gather skills in legal research and writing, and absorb foundational principles in key areas of the law.
You can choose to undertake voluntary legal experience or a para-professional placement to become familiar with the issues facing working paralegals.
An optional major in Conveyancing provides the academic pre-requisite for qualification as a conveyancer in NSW.Paralegals work with solicitors and barristers, in government legal departments, law enforcement agencies, legal aid offices, court administration, public prosecutions and in the community and corporate sectors in finance, banking, insurance and conveyancing.Graduates may also consider roles as a para-professional within a range of industries.
This degree is also a pathway to further studies to become a lawyer.
Structure
Core Units
| Title | Level of learning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| LEGL1004 - Australian Legal System | Introductory | |
| LAWS2055 - Criminal Process | Introductory | |
| LEGL1002 - Interviewing, Negotiation and Ethics | Introductory | |
| LEGL1001 - Legal Research and Writing | Introductory | |
| LEGL2007 - Principles of Contract Law | Intermediate | |
| LEGL2001 - Introduction to Land Law | Introductory | |
| LAWS2056 - Family Law Practice | Intermediate | |
| LEGL2002 - Foundations of Torts | Intermediate |
Electives
Entry requirements
To be eligible to receive the Associate Degree in Law (Paralegal Studies), students must complete the equivalent of 16 units (192 credit points), comprising:
- 8 core units (96 credit points); and
- the Conveyancing Major (96 credit points); or
- 6 Law electives (72 credit points) and 2 Law or University-wide electives (24 credit points).
Learning outcomes
Course Learning Outcomes express learning achievement in terms of what a student should know, understand and be able to do on completion of a course. These outcomes are aligned with the <a href="/staff/teaching-and-learning/graduate-attributes/">graduate attributes</a>.
| Graduate Attribute | Course Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| Intellectual rigour | Apply critical judgement including analysis, reasoning, and appropriate directed research to legal issues and challenges in paralegal, professional and social contexts. |
| Creativity | Apply legal reasoning and research to generate appropriate and creative responses to legal problems in paralegal, professional and social contexts. |
| Ethical practice | Demonstrate an understanding and evaluate issues with reference to principles of social justice and legal ethical frameworks. |
| Knowledge of a discipline | Demonstrate an understanding of a broad and coherent body of knowledge relating to the paralegal, professional and social contexts of the fundamental areas of law, the Australian legal system, and underlying principles and concepts. |
| Lifelong learning | Learn and work independently within broad parameters.Reflect on and assess their own capabilities and performance.Access, manage and evaluate sources of information relevant to legal research and practice. |
| Communication and social skills | Communicate appropriately and effectively, both orally and in writing.Collaborate effectively and constructively with others. |
| Cultural competence | Apply an understanding of Australian Indigenous perspectives to all aspects of legal professional practice. |
Institution
