About the LS Program

Program Mission

The legal studies program supports the mission of the university and the College of Liberal Arts to foster the intellectual, professional, and ethical development of students while developing the competencies necessary for an effective career as a legal professional. The program combines practical applications of law with underlying theory as a means of preparing graduates for lifelong intellectual and professional development that contributes to the legal community and the advancement of justice.

Goals & Objectives

1. Upon completion of the program, graduates should be able to enter the workforce as a paralegal.

2. Graduate students should possess the skills necessary to perform adequately as an entry-level paralegal, including:

Legal research

Legal writing

Critical thinking

Interviewing and investigation

Technological skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

3. Graduates should perform ethically and professionally in the legal working environment.


Both the M.A. and paralegal studies programs have been approved by the American Bar Association and offer graduate instruction. These programs do not qualify persons to practice law.

Dr. Lynn Crossett
Director, Legal Studies Program