Legal Studies AAS

Do your strengths lie in research, writing, problem-solving, and organization? Are you interested in law, justice, government, or compliance—or possibly becoming a lawyer? A degree in Legal Studies is a smart way to begin.

Legal professionals work under the direction of attorneys within legal and regulatory teams at law firms, courts, government agencies, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. This program prepares you with the practical skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s legal environment.

In the Legal Studies program, you will develop the ability to:

  • Interview clients and potential witnesses
  • Prepare trial evidence and maintain case files
  • Summarize depositions and legal documents
  • Conduct legal research
  • Draft legal documents, including briefs, memoranda, contracts, interrogatories, and correspondence

Courses are taught by experienced legal professionals—including attorneys, judges, and paralegals—and are designed to reflect current practices and employer needs. Our advisory committee helps ensure the curriculum focuses on the most in-demand skills in our region.

Through the internship program, you will gain hands-on experience, build a professional network, and develop a portfolio of written work. Many students secure employment opportunities through their internship placements.

Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in law offices, court systems, government agencies, corporations, and nonprofit organizations. The program also provides a strong academic foundation for those who plan to pursue a bachelor’s degree or attend law school.

Contact (815) 455-8690 with specific questions about this program.

(in-district) Total Amount: $14,035

Credit Hours to Complete: 60

Weeks to Complete: 64


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Sample Semester 1 16 Credit Hours

    COURSE LIST Course Ids: PAR-101#3 hrs,PAR-102#3 hrs,PHI-251#3 hrs,SPE-151#3 hrs,ENG-151#3 hrs,MCC-101#1 hr

Sample Semester 2 15 Credit Hours

    COURSE LIST Course Ids: PAR-103#3 hrs,PAR-110#3 hrs,PAR-121#3 hrs,Select a Mathematics or Physical or Life Science Course#3 hrs,Select a Program Elective#3 hrs

Sample Semester 3 15 Credit Hours

    COURSE LIST Course Ids: PAR-123#3 hrs,PAR-125#3 hrs,PLT-155#3 hrs,Select a Program Elective#3 hrs,Select a Program Elective#3 hrs

Sample Semester 4 15 Credit Hours

    COURSE LIST Course Ids: PAR-120#3 hrs,PAR-122#3 hrs,Select a Program Elective#3 hrs,Select a Program Elective#3 hrs,PAR-255#3-6 hrs

Career Outlook

Related Programs

  • Paralegal Certificate Earn your Paralegal Certificate in 12 to 18 months! Perfect for career changers and aspiring law students.

What you need to know about getting your Legal Studies AAS (CIP 22.0302)

Total Legal Studies AAS Costs
Cost in-district out-of-district out-of-state international
Tuition $8,595 $26,215.2 $33,416.4 $33,416.4
Additional Costs $5,440 $5,440 $5,440 $5,440
Program Total $14,035 $31,655.2 $38,856.4 $38,856.4

What makes MCC's Legal Studies AAS program better than or distinct from similar programs at other institutions?

MCC’s Legal Studies AAS program is tailored to the needs of the legal and regulatory job market in McHenry County and the greater Chicagoland area. Guided by an advisory committee of attorneys, judges, and legal professionals, the curriculum is designed to reflect current practices and employer needs.

You’ll focus on the skills and subject areas most in demand in our local market, preparing you for real-world success in a variety of legal settings.

What job opportunities are available to someone with a Legal Studies AAS?

You’ll be prepared for legal support roles in law offices, courts, government agencies, corporations, and nonprofit organizations.

Outside the Classroom

Paralegal-Specific Career Information

  • Legal Studies AAS Program Mission Statement

    The mission of MCC's Legal Studies AAS program is to prepare students to become ethical, competent, and technologically proficient legal professionals who support the effective delivery of legal services and the advancement of justice in their communities.

    The program develops critical thinking, professional communication, ethical decision-making, and practical technology skills for work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and court systems.

    Graduates are distinguished by their professionalism, analytical ability, and adaptability in a dynamic legal environment. They are prepared for careers in the legal field and for continued education, including transfer to bachelor’s programs or pursuit of law school.

  • Legal Studies AAS Program Learning Objectives

    Students will:

    1. Demonstrate analytical and critical thinking skills in the application of legal concepts to factual situations;
    2. Conduct legal research using appropriate legal resources;
    3. Produce professional legal writing, including memoranda, correspondence, and other legal documents;li>
    4. Apply principles of professional ethics and responsibility in the performance of legal work;
    5. Demonstrate proficiency in technology commonly used in the legal field;
    6. Communicate effectively with legal professionals, clients, and other stakeholders in a professional setting;
    7. Demonstrate organizational and time-management skills necessary for effective legal work.

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Semesters to complete assumes students are taking a full-time credit load of 12 credits per semester.

Proportion of students completing in normal time is the percentage of completers who earned the credential within the specified time of their first enrollment at the College.

Students attending part-time or changing their program of study are two common reasons why they may not complete in "normal" time.

Tuition and fees are set by the Board of Trustees. Prices for books and supplies are subject to change.

See additional information about international student costs.