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Legal Studies

Bachelor of Arts

The Region’s Only ABA-Approved Four-Year Paralegal Program

The CSM Legal Studies program is built for women ready to lead in law, advocacy, and justice.

We’re proud to offer the only four-year paralegal program in Nebraska and Iowa approved by the American Bar Association—a distinction held by just 270 programs nationwide. We also offer an ABA-approved post-baccalaureate paralegal certificate, designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree.

Every course is taught by licensed attorneys, giving you real-world insight and preparation—whether your goal is to become a professional paralegal or to apply to law school.

Fast-Track Your Law Career: 3+3 Program with Creighton Law

Through our accelerated 3+3 partnership with Creighton University School of Law, qualified students can complete their undergraduate and law degrees in just six years.

You’ll spend three years at College of Saint Mary completing Legal Studies coursework. Then, in your junior year, you’ll take the LSAT and apply to Creighton. Once admitted, your first year of law school counts toward your bachelor’s degree—saving you time and money.

Proven Career Outcomes

Our graduates are hired by top law firms and corporations across the country, including:

  • Contract Analyst
  • Legal Brief Reviewer
  • Software Compliance Manager
  • Quality Assurance Officer
     

Many of our students also go on to law school, with some earning full-ride scholarships to top regional programs.

 

Degrees Offered & Overview

Degrees Offered & Overview

 

Program Details

Program Details

Start Date: August or January of each year
Program Length: 4 years

All students at College of Saint Mary enrolled in paralegal programs must complete a minimum of nine (9) semester credits or their equivalent in legal specialty courses, which can be fulfilled through synchronous instruction methods, including face-to-face class meetings or remote-synchronous classes like Zoom.

Admissions Information

Admissions Information

Undergraduate Admissions Requirements for College of Saint Mary

  • Submit your application

  • Transcripts from any post high school institutions for transfer students. Students who have earned 12 or more credit hours with a minimum GPA of 2.0 from other institutions qualify as transfer students.

Test-Optional Admissions

CSM accepts undergraduate students with or without test scores (ACT/SAT). Below are a few key details to consider:

  • Choosing not to submit test scores will not result in any penalties during the admission or merit scholarship evaluation process.
  • If you decide to submit scores after being admitted, we will assess your eligibility for a potential increase in merit scholarship (scores must be submitted by March 31). No merit scholarship will be revoked due to test scores submitted after admission.

Faculty

Faculty

Learn from Experts Who Practice What They Teach

You will be guided by professionals who live it every day. Every course in our Legal Studies program is taught by licensed attorneys—an opportunity that sets us apart in the region. Our faculty bring deep legal knowledge, real-world experience, and a passion for mentoring women who are ready to lead in law, policy, and justice.

Career Outlook

Career Outlook

As a paralegal, you’ll work under the supervision of an attorney, conduct research, draft legal documents, interview clients and assist at trial. According to the National Association of Legal Assistants Utilization & Compensation Survey, total compensation for paralegals continues to grow with an average of $68,240 in 2020, which is a 1% increase compared to 2018 ($67,578) and an 11% increase over 2016 ($61,671). The U.S. Department of Labor predicts that the demand for paralegal professionals will continue growing faster than average, anticipating up to a 15 percent increase in opportunities by 2030. The median salary for paralegals is $52,920, and Spanish/English bi-lingual paralegals are in particularly high demand right now. 

Source: U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration

Accreditation

Accreditation

The Assurance of Accreditation

The assurance of regional accreditation means that our degrees have been evaluated for their outcomes — including how well they prepare you to meet the needs of your employers, yourself and our global society.  College of Saint Mary is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

College of Saint Mary’s Bachelor of Arts Degree in Legal Studies program is approved by the American Bar Association, Standing Committee on Paralegals, 312-998-5618. 

Students Find Support at CSM

The Legal Studies major found her professors to be very supportive. 

Arlene said her professors have been helpful through difficult times.“They’ve understood that family is important, and they help me in any way they can. They support me. I try to stay in constant communication with them."

Read More About Arlene's Experience at CSM