Law and Security Administration - Paralegal - Loyalist College of Applied Arts and TechnologySecurity Education in CanadaCrime and Fire Programs -- Community College Programs
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Law and Security Administration - Paralegal - Loyalist College of Applied Arts and Technology Combining theoretical and practical education, Loyalist College of Applied Arts and Technology's 2-year Diploma in Law and Security Administration - Paralegal is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to pursue a career, career advancement, and/or further training in paralegal work, or related areas. Students will learn in small classes and via practical laboratories, 'hands-on practice in our student-operated legal information centre,' and 'two supervised work placements.' The Program's first year curriculum is shared with the College's other justice studies programs including Community and Justice Services Worker, Corporate and Commercial Security, Customs and Immigration, and Police Foundations. During the first year, students will develop a general foundation in criminal justice, which will form the basis for future studies in the Program, including communications, computers, ethical decision-making, human behaviour, and the justice system. Students who successfully complete the first year will have the option of applying directly into the second year of any of the aforementioned programs or completing the current Diploma. In the final year of the Program, participants who proceed with paralegal studies will 'acquire specialized knowledge and skills' relevant to the paralegal profession. This includes an in-depth understanding of administrative tribunal and court enforcement processes and procedures and the ability to prepare cases and advocate for a client in courtroom settings, particularly in Ontario Provincial Offence and Small Claims Courts, provide 'effective litigation and information support services,' and use relevant computer-based applications and resources 'and print resources, including Quicklaw, to research legislation and case law.' Students will also have the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom to real-world situations through 'nine weeks of varied on-the-job experience in two work placements.' The Placements will also give students a chance to learn outside of formal classes and directly from the workplace and from individuals, such as co-workers and employers, who are active in the field. Graduates of the Program may pursue employment, career advancement, or further education in various aspects of the legal field or related areas. Career-wise, as paralegals graduates will be prepared for positions in places like government agencies, law firms, and legal departments of corporations, among others, and will be able to represent clients before specific and/or specialized courts and administrative tribunals. On average, 'a junior paralegal working in government earns a starting salary of $37,000 to $38,000.' Students should be aware that individuals with a criminal record may find it difficult to obtain employment for the Program's work experience placement as well as after graduation as, because of the nature of the work, many employers are reluctant to hire those who have a criminal history. Graduates can also further their education at various institutes, colleges, and universities across Canada often with advanced standing. For example, graduates can take advantage of one of the existing transfer agreements that the College has with Athabasca University, Carleton University, Griffith University, Nipissing University, Ryerson University, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, and University of Windsor. The College also has informal agreements 'with other institutions and new transfer agreements are added annually.' Students interested in transferring to another school with whom the College does not have an existing agreement can contact the institution of their choice and 'make individual arrangements.' Eligibility for admission to the Law and Security Administration - Paralegal program falls under three categories, high school graduates, mature students, and transfer students. High school graduates or those under 19 years of age as of the Program's startdate must possess an 'Ontario Secondary School Diploma (30 credits) or an Ontario Secondary School Graduation Diploma or the equivalent,' including English 12 and credits at the at the general, advanced, (C), (U), (M), or (O) level. Applicants who are 19 years of age or older at the start of the Program may apply under mature student status. Mature applicants may be required to write pre-entry tests and/or undertake college preparatory studies and thus should consult with the Admissions Office to determine if they are to take any examinations or courses. Mature students may receive 'course credits or exemptions' if they possess relevant and extensive life experience. Applicants who have 'prior education equivalent to Year One (from university and/or college) normally will be admitted directly to Year Two. Applicants seeking advanced standing are encouraged to review their qualifications with the program coordinator.' All applicants must undergo a Police Records Check as those with a criminal record 'may not be eligible for the required field placement.' Further, all applicants must complete a personal health history form before registering. Individuals 'with special needs or limitations which may affect their potential employment are encouraged to discuss their program and career goals with the coordinator prior to enrollment.' Furthermore, although not required for admission, the College recommends that students acquire 'computer proficiency in word processing, file management, e-mail and Internet browsing' and complete Grade 12 Mathematics, or equivalent.
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