We recognized University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire for offering one of Top Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Paralegal Studies, adding them to our list of top recommendations for students in the area.
We were excited to hear from Eric Kasper, faculty member at University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, who took the time to answer a few questions about how the school works to create a great student experience that helps prepare graduates for a career in the legal field.
Are you finding a lot of career changers in your program looking to get their start in the legal profession?
Eric: Most of the students who pursue our legal studies certificate are traditional aged students also seeking an undergraduate degree. We do have some non-traditional students who are returning to school intending to hold employment in the legal profession.
Paralegals are really getting the respect they deserve these days, and taking on more and more responsibilities on the job. How is this changing the approach to educating new paralegals?
Eric: Our legal studies certificate is aimed primarily at students who plan on applying to law school. The certificate requires students to complete a course in American politics, a course on judicial politics, and two constitutional law courses. Students must then select two elective courses on topics related to the law and legal systems. The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire has a paralegal preparation program that is run through the Continuing Education Office.
Does the program at your school include an internship and are faculty available to help students find one?
Eric: One of the elective courses for the legal studies certificate is our department’s internship class. It is not a requirement of the certificate. Faculty are available to assist students with finding an internship. The department has ongoing internships with several local law firms, attorney offices, and judges.
What are some of the things you love most about the paralegal program at your school – the kind of things you’d like future students to know about as they consider their options?
Eric: Our certificate is aimed primarily at preparation for law school, although it is certainly open to students who plan on becoming paralegals as well. The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire has a paralegal preparation program that is run through the Continuing Education Office.
Check out our full interview series here to see what other professors and faculty are saying about their paralegal programs.