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Legal Studies

Reach higher with a Legal Studies degree.

Explore Pathways in Legal Studies

1

Associate Degree in Legal Studies

2

Bachelor Degree in Legal Studies

Legal Studies

Our Legal Studies program trains and educates students with the academic, technological, and legal skills to work competently in the law field.

Students in the Legal Studies program will…

  • Understand the U.S. Legal System and learn to analyze and apply the law.
  • Develop knowledge of substantive and procedural law including torts, contracts, and criminal and domestic law.
  • Know how to manage a law office with technical proficiency.
  • Gain a thorough understanding of courtroom procedures including litigation and trial procedures.
  • Show proficiency in legal research, drafting, and writing.

Legal Programs

Excellent pathway for law school.

What Sets Us Apart

Program Highlights

Law School Pathway

Earn a law degree early by moving forward with our transfer plan program.

Experienced Faculty

Instructors are practicing attorneys and specialists in their fields.

Become a Paralegal

Our program meets the requirements of the State of California for the paralegal profession.

Historical Program

High competency level program producing quality graduates for over 125 years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a legal studies degree and what jobs does it lead to?

The Humphreys University Legal Studies bachelor’s degree prepares students for paralegal, legal assistant, compliance, contracts, court clerk, and legal operations roles. Students learn legal research, writing, contracts, and litigation procedure from faculty who practice law.

Is legal studies the same as being a paralegal?

A paralegal certificate is a short credential; the Humphreys University Legal Studies bachelor’s degree is a full four-year degree that covers the same practical skills plus the academic foundation employers look for when promoting into senior paralegal and compliance roles.

Does this degree lead to law school?

Yes. The Humphreys University Legal Studies degree is a natural path into the Drivon School of Law JD program or the Master of Legal Studies, both offered at Humphreys. Students continue with faculty and coursework they already know, on the same campus. Nine courses from the bachelor’s degree will count toward the law degree.

Do I need to go to law school to work in law?

No. Most legal work is done by paralegals, legal assistants, compliance officers, and contract administrators who hold a bachelor’s degree rather than a JD. The Humphreys University Legal Studies program is built specifically for those careers. The program is also built with a Law School as an option.

Can I complete the legal studies degree while working?

Yes. Humphreys University offers legal studies coursework in 11-week quarters with virtual, online, and on-campus formats. Students working in law firms, courts, and government offices routinely complete the program while employed full time.

How much does it cost?

Undergraduate tuition at Humphreys University is $375 per unit, with 12 to 16 units billed at the 12-unit rate. Federal and state financial aid applies — the Humphreys FAFSA code is 001212.

Who teaches the legal studies courses?

Humphreys University legal studies faculty are practicing attorneys and legal professionals, several of whom also teach in the Drivon School of Law. Students learn procedure and drafting from people doing that work in California courts now.

Will my paralegal certificate or AA transfer in?

Humphreys University accepts transfer units from accredited institutions.

Your Future
In Legal Studies

Use substantive and procedural law to pursue countless occupations. Consider any of these careers in Legal Studies:

Lawyer

Legal Office Assistant

Administrative Assistant

Paralegal

Law Library Clerk

Meet Your Department Chair

Duane McLaughlin

Mr. McLaughlin worked 25 years for the Stockton Police Department where he retired as a Lieutenant. McLaughlin held many assignments at SPD from patrol officer, vice, SWAT, Internal Affairs, and Watch Commander. He also managed the Traffic Section, Investigations Section and Special Investigations Section.