Legal studies and career paths
Legal studies focus on the many facets of the law and the legal system. Degrees range from associate through master's, and many options can be completed online. College courses cover how the legal system works, how it relates to social change, and how to assist people in asserting legal rights. The College Board lists potential subjects, such as constitutional law, law and economics, legal research and writing, and the philosophy of law.
Careers for graduates of legal studies programs
With a degree from an accredited legal studies program, and in some cases, further specialized training, you can pursue a variety of careers such as paralegal, consultant, contract administrator, court administrator, court clerk, data analyst, expert witness, FBI agent or public service administrator. These degrees are also a stepping stone for professional studies such as law school or other graduate courses.
Legal studies programs offer a path to enter the role of paralegal. Paralegals often undertake legal research and some of the same tasks as lawyers, though paralegals are forbidden to complete certain duties that attorneys can perform. The paralegal profession is growing faster than average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics--and there are opportunities for advancement. The BLS reported a median annual pay rate of $46,680 in 2010; the federal branch of the government paid on the higher end with a mean yearly wage of $64,210.
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