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Durham College, located in Canada, is a renowned educational institution for it's q...
Honours Bachelor of Paralegal
Oshawa
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
Durham College offers an Honours Bachelor of Paralegal degree program designed to prepare students for rewarding careers in the legal profession. This comprehensive program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills training to equip students with the competencies required to excel as paralegals in law firms, government agencies, corporate legal departments, and other legal settings. Through a blend of classroom instruction, experiential learning opportunities, and hands-on training, students develop expertise in areas such as legal research, writing, advocacy, litigation support, and client representation. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical practice, and professionalism, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the diverse needs of clients and contribute effectively to the legal community.
Curriculum:
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Legal Foundations: The program covers foundational principles of law, including Canadian legal systems, constitutional law, administrative law, and substantive areas of law such as criminal law, family law, and tort law. Students gain an understanding of the legal framework within which paralegals operate, learning about statutes, regulations, case law, and legal precedent that shape legal practice in Canada.
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Paralegal Skills and Procedures: Students acquire practical skills and procedures essential for paralegal practice, including legal research, document drafting, pleadings preparation, and court procedures. They learn how to conduct legal research using electronic databases and online resources, analyze legal issues, and draft legal documents such as contracts, agreements, and court forms. Students also receive training in case management, file organization, and client communication to effectively manage legal matters and provide high-quality service to clients.
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Litigation and Advocacy: The program includes instruction in litigation procedures and advocacy skills, preparing students to represent clients in administrative tribunals, small claims court, and other quasi-judicial proceedings. Students learn about the rules of evidence, courtroom etiquette, and advocacy techniques used in legal proceedings. They participate in mock trials, moot court competitions, and simulated hearings to develop their advocacy skills and gain confidence in presenting arguments and evidence before adjudicators.
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Ethics and Professional Responsibility: Students explore ethical principles and professional responsibilities governing paralegal practice, including confidentiality, conflict of interest, and client confidentiality. They learn about the Paralegal Rules of Conduct and the ethical guidelines established by the Law Society of Ontario, preparing them to navigate ethical dilemmas and maintain the highest standards of professional integrity in their practice.
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Experiential Learning Opportunities: The program offers experiential learning opportunities through field placements, internships, or co-operative education placements with law firms, legal clinics, government agencies, or corporate legal departments. Students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world legal settings, gaining practical experience under the supervision of experienced legal professionals. Experiential learning opportunities enhance students' employability, networking, and professional development, providing valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of paralegals and legal practitioners.
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Preparation for Licensing Examination: Upon completion of the program, graduates are eligible to write the licensing examination administered by the Law Society of Ontario to become licensed paralegals in Ontario. The program prepares students for the licensing examination by covering the competencies and subject areas tested on the examination, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to succeed in obtaining their paralegal license and practicing as competent and ethical legal professionals.
Location
Oshawa
Score
IELTS: 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 18363
Undergraduate Programs:
Application Fee: CAD $100
- Minimum Academic Requirement: International students applying for undergraduate programs at Durham College must have completed their secondary education or equivalent with a minimum overall average of 65% or higher.
- English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5, with no band score less than 6.
- PTE Academic: A minimum score of 53.
While Durham College does not offer specific scholarships for international students, there are alternative funding options available. It is recommended that international students thoroughly research and explore various scholarship and financial aid opportunities, both within and outside the college, to support their educational journey at Durham College.
External Scholarships: International students can search for scholarships offered by external organizations, such as government agencies, private foundations, and international organizations. These scholarships may be available based on country of origin, field of study, academic achievement, or other criteria. Students can conduct thorough research and apply for scholarships that align with their eligibility criteria.
Educational Loans: International students can consider applying for educational loans from financial institutions or banks in their home country or Canada. These loans can help cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. It is advisable to research and compare different loan options, including interest rates and repayment terms, before making a decision.
Graduating with an Honours Bachelor of Paralegal degree from Durham College opens up a multitude of career opportunities in the legal profession. As licensed paralegals, graduates are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies to provide legal services to clients in various practice areas.
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Paralegal Practitioner: Graduates can work as licensed paralegals, providing legal services in authorized areas of practice, including small claims court representation, tribunal advocacy, landlord-tenant matters, summary conviction criminal offenses, and provincial offenses. Paralegal practitioners assist clients with legal matters such as contract disputes, landlord-tenant disputes, traffic violations, and immigration applications. They conduct legal research, draft legal documents, and represent clients in administrative tribunals and other quasi-judicial proceedings.
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Legal Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers as legal researchers, working for law firms, government agencies, legal clinics, or corporate legal departments. Legal researchers conduct in-depth legal research using electronic databases, case law, statutes, and regulations to analyze legal issues, prepare legal memoranda, and provide legal opinions to lawyers, paralegals, and clients. They contribute to case preparation, litigation strategy, and legal decision-making by identifying relevant legal authorities and interpreting complex legal concepts.
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Litigation Support Specialist: Graduates can work as litigation support specialists, assisting lawyers and paralegals in the management and preparation of litigation cases. Litigation support specialists manage case files, organize discovery documents, and coordinate with court personnel, opposing counsel, and expert witnesses to ensure smooth case progression. They may also assist in trial preparation, exhibit management, and courtroom technology support during hearings and trials.
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Legal Services Manager: Graduates may pursue managerial roles in legal services departments, law firms, or legal consulting firms, overseeing the delivery of legal services and managing paralegal teams. Legal services managers are responsible for client intake, case management, staff supervision, and quality assurance. They develop policies and procedures, allocate resources, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of legal service delivery.
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Corporate Paralegal: Graduates can work as corporate paralegals in corporate legal departments or business organizations, assisting with corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and contract management activities. Corporate paralegals support corporate lawyers in drafting and reviewing corporate documents, maintaining corporate records, and facilitating corporate transactions such as mergers, acquisitions, and securities filings. They ensure corporate compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and corporate governance standards.
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Legal Consultant: Graduates may establish their own legal consulting practice, offering specialized legal services to individuals, businesses, or organizations in areas such as family law, immigration law, real estate law, or estate planning. Legal consultants provide legal advice, document preparation, and representation services on a freelance or contract basis, catering to the specific needs of clients seeking affordable and accessible legal assistance.
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Further Education and Specialization: Graduates may choose to pursue further education or specialization in specific areas of law or legal practice through postgraduate studies, professional development courses, or certifications. Advanced education and specialization can enhance career opportunities and professional advancement in specialized practice areas such as family law, immigration law, criminal defense, or civil litigation.
