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Legal Studies

Online Associate of Science in Legal Studies (AS)

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About This Associate's Degree in Legal Studies

Build your understanding of litigation, ethics, real estate law, criminal law, paralegal procedures, legal research, writing, civil practice, and general law with an associate degree in legal studies from American Public University.

This online program is an ideal choice for those interested in all things legal. You will study the U.S. legal system, court procedures and the judicial system, legal terminology, and legal processes. Become acquainted with American law, while thinking critically and learning to solve problems. You will build the foundation for additional higher education when you earn this online degree.

Similar to an associate degree in paralegal studies, this program examines fundamental legal concepts and principles while helping to develop skills often used by individuals in non-lawyer legal professions. The curriculum for this associate of science prepares students to demonstrate ethical service and leadership, as part of American Public University’s larger mission to improve public service, which includes access to justice.

Note: This program does not award professional paralegal certification but may be helpful in preparing to seek certification.

What You Will Do

  1. Apply legal research and writing skills in realistic legal contexts
  2. Develop critical thinking and legal analytical skills
  3. Demonstrate proficiency with equipment and software used in law offices

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Degree at a Glance

Number of Credits
60
Transfer up to 45 credits1
Cost Per Credit
$360 | $250*
$324**
*with Preferred Military Rate
**with Veteran Grant or APUS Opportunity Grant
Courses Start Monthly
Online
and vary from 8 to 16 weeks

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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 5037

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Information and Digital Literacy is designed to provide students with sustainable and usable skills essential to success in both academic and professional settings. Students will learn best practices to locate and evaluate sources, and effectively communicate using digital literacy to become proficient 21st century learners.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4951

|
Martin Luther King, Jr, said, “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to KEEP MOVING.” Making Writing Relevant is a composition course that will definitely keep you moving. It is not merely a required course; it is the type of course you will want to take because it moves you onto the path to success. Over eight-weeks, we will help you learn the most important components of a successful writer-communicator. We will teach you how to research properly, knowing you will need this skill in every course you take here at APUS and also in interactions in your professional and personal life. We will teach you the formatting style you will use in your field. We will provide a supportive community to strengthen and encourage you, and by the end of this nearly-all-you-need-to-know-about-writing course, you will be able to fly.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 5224

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Presidents winning elections, countries declaring war, spouses saving a marriage, students earning scholarships—all of these have something in common: argumentation. Mountains have been moved by masters of this craft. Just think of what such people as Martin Luther King, Jr., Franklin D. Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln achieved with the power of their words. There is, as Horace says, harmony in discord. We will explore that harmony and why Fredrick Douglass said there can be no progress without struggle. In this class, we will examine argument strategies and structures, interrogate assumptions, explore moral arguments with complex empirical questions, and analyze a variety of texts—popular culture, websites, advertisements, etc. Be prepared to work with a variety of evidence and opinions, cultures, counterclaims, evidentiary quality, and more, as we study and practice the art of argumentation. (Pre-requisite: ENGL101 or ENGL110)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 2886

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This is the foundation course for the program. This course requires no previous legal background and introduces the student to the paralegal profession, the legal system, legal research, writing, and analysis, and other aspects of the law and the law office. This course will provide practical problem exercises of the type faced in an office environment; help the student develop the requisite paralegal skills; and presents a variety of the ethical issues and perspectives that paralegals face today. The overall theme is to address a broad range of paralegal topics in a contemporary law office environment.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2897

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This course gives the students a broad overview of the litigation process and the specific role of the paralegal. This course is an introduction to and the exploration of the process related to civil litigation and the procedures normally the responsibility of the paralegal in preparing materials for trial. Coverage will include information gathering, interviewing, organizing, and preparation of materials for trial. It includes general information on the litigation process and practical exercises to help the student learn to implement the role of the paralegal, such as how to conduct an initial fact finding interview. The course will give an overview of the structure of the court system.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2900

|
This course is a study of real estate law, with emphasis on those portions of real estate law that are essential to the processes and functions of the real estate purchase, administration, financing, land use regulation, financial instruments, leases, and property rights. The law of real estate has traditionally consisted of laborious manual searches to ensure good title. The internet provides real estate attorneys and legal assistants with new tools and procedures for conducting real estate transactions. This course will prepare the student for these concepts and will introduce the student to the new world of the Internet as related to real estate law.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2901

|
This course will examine the practical aspects of criminal law and procedure as they pertain to the work of the paralegal. The course covers the nature of criminal liability, the elements of various crimes, and defenses to criminal accusations. The course will also cover criminal procedure, from search and seizure through trial and appeal. Constitutional issues relating to search and seizure, self-incrimination and other matters are explored in depth. Students learn how to prepare relevant legal documents.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2570

|
This course will assess the methods used to locate necessary legal materials and be able to evaluate the appropriate citations of those materials. The paralegal aspects are reviewed and distinguished from other judicial case briefings. The course will introduce legal analysis methods and the preparation of appropriate techniques for researching legal issues and cases. Critical definitions of legal terminology are analyzed and used in preparation of legal materials such as memoranda, client letters, and other relevant documents. The course presents the student with techniques for effective writing in the legal environment.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2558

|
This course is an overview of civil practice and procedure and will examine the process that courts must follow when hearing cases of a civil nature. During the course of study, students will learn how a lawsuit is commenced, what kind of service of process is required, the types of pleadings, motions, and orders allowed in civil cases, the timing and manner of depositions and discovery, the conduct of trials, the process for judgment, various available remedies, and how the courts and clerks must function. The course focuses on the legal skills involving interviewing and counseling for civil cases, the drafting of legal documents for civil cases, and legal ethics focused specifically on civil cases. Course topics include civil trial practices of pleadings, motions, discovery, pre-trial conferences, jury selection, trial protocols, and appellate strategies.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4295

|
This undergraduate course introduces students to the ethics and professional responsibilities of the legal profession. Emphasis is given to the strict regulation of the practice of law and accompanying reasons, as well as the standard of care expected by those who work in the field. Important ethical issues, such as marketing, client relationships, fees, and communications are explored. Students will analyze the model rules and their practical applications.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 5345

|
This course is a culminating course for the Associate of Science in Legal Studies degree to be taken after all other courses in the program have been satisfactorily completed. It is designed to allow the student to review, analyze, and integrate the work completed toward the degree. The student will complete an approved academic project or paper that demonstrates their grasp of the legal studies field. (Prerequisite: Sophomore standing and completion of at least 85% of other courses required in the AS in Legal Studies program.)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Program Highlights: About the Curriculum

This 60-credit undergraduate program introduces students to America’s courts, as well as the legal and criminal justice system. Students learn key information and skills often related to non-lawyer professional roles in the legal field, such as a paralegal or legal assistant.

Students interested in this associate’s degree will complete general education courses, lower-level electives, and a final program requirement. Legal studies coursework provides foundational knowledge, covering topics like the following:

  • Introduction to Law for Paralegals
  • Litigation
  • Real Estate Law
  • Criminal Law 
  • Paralegal Procedures
  • Legal Research 
  • Legal Writing
  • Civil Practice and Procedure
  • Legal Ethics

This resulting curriculum translates to a study of the law itself, as well as pertinent, real-world issues. 

The professors here at the University have been SUPER helpful and so kind. They really want to see you succeed and will offer guidance and supportive words when you just don’t think you can do it anymore. I went from a student who has hated school since kindergarten to getting amazing grades.
Ariann Stone
Program Graduate

 

Why Get This Associate of Science Degree?

American Public University is part of American Public University System, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. 

American Public University is dedicated to providing accessible, quality education. With courses starting every month and no set login times, this online program combines flexible scheduling with quality learning. Whether your goal is to someday attend law school, or you are interested in learning about a possible legal career as a non-lawyer professional, completing this degree may be a practical stepping stone.

law school

What Can You Do With This Degree

After earning this associates in legal studies, you may further advance your education with a bachelor’s degree. In fact, legal studies degrees are offered at all levels—associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s. The working knowledge you’ll gain of legal services, legal ethics, legal and factual research, legal processes, and the law is expanded as you continue throughout your educational journey. You will become familiar with preparing legal documents, the inner workings of law firms, and how to provide support to non-lawyer professions.

    Apply to American Public University

    How to Pay for This Degree

    This program is an excellent way to further your knowledge at a reasonable investment. Not only do you benefit from American Public University’s affordable tuition rates, but many students may also qualify for federal student aid (FSA), military tuition assistance, and veteran (such as GI Bill® ) benefits. 

    GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill. 

     

     

    Your employer may offer educational benefits that can help you pay for this associate's degree. Contact your company’s human resources department for more specific information on the types of programs that may be covered under their tuition assistance benefits. 

    While American Public University does not offer scholarships directly, we do encourage students enrolled in our degree programs to apply for private scholarships to help offset the cost of earning an undergraduate degree.

    It is possible to apply eligible academic credits you’ve already earned from other colleges or universities—even if you were not previously pursuing a legal degree. Similarly, you may also have the opportunity to apply credits earned through examinations, professional training, and/or certifications that have been evaluated by the American Council on Education. 

    Earning your degree can become even more affordable if you’ve taken other legal studies courses, completed relevant certifications/exams, or your real-world experience overlaps with requirements for this program. American Public University’s $0 transfer credit evaluation can help you identify opportunities to potentially reduce your coursework and tuition.

    Please see the University’s transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.1
    Paralegals and legal assistants play a key role in the legal field today and they are instrumental in helping to provide critical access to justice.
    Kerry L. Erisman, LL.M., JD
    Department Chair

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Yes, you can earn this associate of science online. Our courses have no set login times, so you can attend classes even while working full time or balancing family obligations.

    Students who earn their degree online at American Public University enjoy numerous advantages. First, the virtual learning environment provides flexibility that often does not exist at traditional brick-and-mortar campuses. Second, affordable tuition, $0 application fee for undergraduate programs, and $0 ebooks for undergraduate courses make higher learning accessible to those who seek an online degree. Courses related to the paralegal profession are also combined with curriculum focusing on other aspects of the legal field for a well-rounded education. Furthermore, this program helps to familiarize students with the software and technology that may be used in today’s law firms.

    Students gain foundational legal knowledge that may provide a smoother transition to a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, legal studies, and/or other legal concentrations. There are also networking opportunities with fellow students and faculty to share real-world experience. Additionally, you gain fundamental understanding of various legal settings through a variety of legal specialty courses.

    Law degree programs are typically designed to prepare students for one destination: law school. Legal studies, on the other hand, may be more suitable for students who are interested in studying law and legal services, but not necessarily interested in pursuing a Juris Doctor (JD). 

    Despite common misconception, the legal studies associate degree is not a law degree. Undergraduate law programs are generally designed to prepare students for law school, and they exist exclusively for this purpose. These programs often have earned approval from the American Bar Association as well.

    While undergraduate legal studies majors certainly have the option to pursue a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, it’s worth noting that the legal studies degree does not exist solely for this purpose. Rather, this program was designed for students who are interested in any number of career paths in legal settings—including, but not limited to, becoming an attorney.

    It is critical to recognize this key distinction before pursuing a legal studies program or degree in law. Law studies curricula are not necessarily equivalent to those of legal studies programs.

    Not every undergraduate law degree is created equal. While similar to an associate degree in paralegal studies or a paralegal studies program, this particular legal studies program does have notable differences, as students gain knowledge in topics that extend well beyond paralegal procedures alone.

    Legal Studies is an all-encompassing introduction to the legal field that includes—but is not limited to—paralegal procedures, legal terminology, real estate law, criminal justice, legal research and writing, civil litigation, and legal ethics.

    Courses Start Monthly

    Next Courses Start Jul 6
    Register by Jul 3
    Apply Now Request Info

    Admission Requirements

    • All APU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
    • There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.

    Need Help?

    Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an APU admissions representative at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].

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    1The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.

    *Cost Per Credit Hour

    The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.

    See all military student benefits.

    Cost of Attendance

    Learn more about American Public University's cost components and full cost of attendance.