Paralegal Studies
What can I do with a degree/certificate in Paralegal Studies?
Paralegals work with attorneys to provide legal services to clients. Paralegals may: draft legal documents, correspondence, and reports; investigate, research, analyze and organize case information; assist with legal research, and perform office support tasks in a legal office.
Paralegals work in a variety of settings in addition to law offices, such as financial institutions, real estate and title offices, corporations, investigative agencies, and law libraries. Paralegals do not give legal advice or act in the place of an attorney.
In many firms and agencies a paralegal may fulfill the duel responsibilities of paralegal and legal secretary. Paralegals must be well-organized and knowledgeable about laws and procedures of their specialty, skilled in helping people in stressful situations, and respectful of confidentiality.
Information Sessions
You are encouraged to attend an information session or contact one of the Professional Technical advisors for planning help.
Degree and Certificate Information
- Associate in Science / Paralegal Studies [PDF Format]
- Certificate / Paralegal Studies [PDF Format] ---Click here for Gainful Employment details.
What is the Paralegal Studies program?
The Paralegal Studies program provides students with the knowledge and skills for entry into paralegal careers in any of the settings listed above. WCC offers an Associate in Science Degree in Paralegal Studies (90 Credits) that prepares students for challenging career opportunities.
The certificate option (42 credits) is designed for baccalaureate degree holders. The certificate can be completed in one year and will be awarded to students upon completion of all certificate requirements and evidence of having earned a Bachelor’s Degree.
Please refer to the current college catalog for additional details about the program.
Additional Resources
PROGRAM INFO
Career & Salary Outlook
- Many are hired as Legal Assistants in law firms
- Wage ranges $11-$12/hr
- Median wage in WA for Paralegals is $22.39

Links
Apply Now to WCC
Information Sessions
Other Prof Tech Programs
Advising and Education Planning
360.383.3080 for appointment
advise@whatcom.ctc.edu
Program Coordinator
Nancy Ivarinen
Laidlaw Center, Room 119
360.383.3772
nivarinen@whatcom.ctc.edu
What Students Are Saying About Paralegal
"Whatcom's paralegal curriculum is excellent and the instructors are really understanding and inspirational. They were always there for us with help and advice even during our law office externships."
- Zeina


