San Diego Miramar College
San Diego Miramar College offers an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved Paralegal Program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist attorneys in delivering quality legal services. The curriculum emphasizes the development of strong research, writing, and analytical abilities, while underscoring the ethical framework governing the legal profession. Upon completion, graduates are prepared to work in various legal settings, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. All paralegal courses incorporate practical components, enabling students to apply legal theories in real-world scenarios.
The Paralegal Program offers two academic pathways:
- Associate of Science Degree in Paralegal: This degree program combines paralegal coursework with general education requirements, providing a comprehensive educational experience. Students must complete a minimum of 60 semester units, which include both paralegal-specific courses and general education classes. The curriculum is designed to build competencies in legal research, writing, ethics, and practical applications of the law.
- Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal: This certificate program is tailored for individuals seeking focused education in paralegal studies without the additional general education components. Students are required to complete a series of paralegal-specific courses totaling a minimum of 36 semester units. The coursework mirrors that of the associate degree, concentrating on essential legal skills and knowledge.
Both programs mandate that students complete at least 18 semester units of their paralegal coursework at Miramar College, with a minimum of 9 units delivered through in-person or synchronous instruction. This residency requirement ensures that students benefit from direct interaction with faculty and peers, fostering a collaborative learning environment.