A degree in Professional Legal Studies prepares students to become part of a vital and growing profession working within their communities to pursue justice, provide social and legal services, and protect basic human rights. Graduates are employed in private law practice, court services, corporate legal departments, mortgage and title companies, legal education, government and political offices, non-profit organizations, law enforcement/corrections, real estate sales, property management, and human resources. The degree also provides unique preparation for students interested in graduate or law school. The curriculum is student-centered and employment-focused. It combines instruction in hard and soft skills, legal theory and service learning. Starting in Fall 2020 the major in Professional Legal Studies will require a minimum of 42 semester hours. Professional Legal Studies majors are required to have a minor or second major in another academic discipline. For additional information on the requirements for the Professional Legal Studies major. Paralegals, also called legal assistants, work in a wide range of professional settings and are an integral part of the legal team. Under the direct supervision of attorneys, paralegals perform legal research, legal writing, litigation management and support, and legal technology support. The mission of the Professional Legal Studies Program is to engage students in the scholarly pursuit of the law and its practice. The Program is committed to provide students with knowledge of procedural and substantive law and a professional skill set that will prepare them for employment in a changing and competitive legal environment.