Internship placements are available in private law offices, legal aid agencies, government agencies and legal departments in corporations. The Legal Studies Program is designed to provide quality paralegal education within the context of a bachelor's degree program. Candidates for a B.A. or B. S. degree utilize Legal Studies courses as either their major or a minor in the same way that students use English, History, or Business Administration as a major or minor. Students who already have a bachelor's degree or who do not wish to obtain one can take the paralegal course sequence on a non-degree basis and receive a certificate upon completion of an approved paralegal course sequence. According to the United States Department of Labor, the paralegal profession will enjoy a faster rate of growth than any other occupational group in the country over the next decade.
Legal paraprofessionals work in a variety of private and governmental settings.
When acting under the supervision of a licensed attorney a properly trained paralegal can do just about everything but give legal advice to clients or represent clients in a court of law. Salaries vary widely and depend upon the degree of formal education, the level of prior experience, the type of employer, the specialty area involved and the geographic location. Local paralegal associations are the best source for specific information. It is very important for all students seeking admission to the Legal Studies Program to consult and work closely with the Legal Studies Advisor and to follow the steps listed below under the option they wish to pursue. At the present time, Illinois State University does not offer a formal major in Legal Studies.