What is Paralegal Studies?
Legal management or paralegal studies is an academic, vocational, and professional discipline that is a hybrid between the study of law and management.
Universities That Offer Paralegal Studies In South Africa
The Paralegal qualification explores the theory and procedural aspects of legal matters that licensed paralegals are allowed to handle, such as presenting cases before specific courts and administrative tribunals.
Combining fundamental legal study with instruction and hands-on practice, this program develops intellectual and professional skills in law. Students build the foundation of knowledge and skills needed to begin a career working within legal systems and institutions.
The purpose of the qualification is to provide the qualifying learner with a basic knowledge and understanding of the South African legal system, fundamental laws, their application, and social context so as to enable the learner to provide supervised support and assistance in a paralegal environment.
Qualifying learners will be able to:
- Apply fundamental knowledge and understanding of the law to a specific problem within the South African legal context.
- Apply appropriate technology in order to conduct legal research on behalf of a legal or paralegal practitioner.
- Communicate with internal and external clients in a paralegal or legal workplace.
- Guide and refer clients in a paralegal context.
- Assist in solving problems in a paralegal context by working in a team and individually.
- Provide administrative and organizational support in an office environment.
- Exercise ethical conduct, values, and professionalism when dealing with all clients.
This qualification equips learners to make a meaningful contribution to South Africa’s constitutional democracy by enhancing access to justice and promoting economic and social transformation.
Why study with us?
We provide high-quality academic training that will enable you to get qualified in your chosen field; you will also be provided with a solid foundation to help you build your career or business. We’ll help you achieve your ambitions no matter how big they are and at the same time open your mind to possibilities you didn’t even know existed. Our standards are very high yet, we are easily accessible and affordable to everyone irrespective of their socio-economic background.
Entry Requirements
- Grade 12 – Matric,
- A senior certificate or
- National Certificate (N3) or a relevant Nated equivalent qualification
- International students with Senior School Certificates can apply.
Learning assumed to be in place:
It is assumed that learners enrolling for this qualification will have acquired all the outcomes in the following learning areas:
- Communication skills at NQF level 4.
- Mathematical literacy skills at NQF level 4.
- Computing skills at NQF level 3.
PROGRAM MODULES
SEMESTER 1
- End User Computing I
- Introduction To SA Law
- Business Communication
- Business Ethics & Principles
- Office Support & Administration
SEMESTER 2
- End User Computing II
- Legal Principles & Practice
- Aspects Of Finance & IT
- Research Methodology
Internship Requirement
This program requires that the student undertakes an internship for a minimum of 12 months in a relevant industry after completing the in-class academic study. There is an opportunity for job placement assistance through our industry network after graduating depending on availability.
Qualification Obtainable
On completion of the program, the student will receive a certificate for the level completed. Qualifications are issued by SASSETA – Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority.
Program Accreditation Information
SASSETA – Safety and Security Sector Education and Training accreditation No: ACC/2016/07/0083/PAA002974
Department of Higher Education and Training accreditation No: 2019/FE07/011
Where can I study paralegal studies in South Africa?
MANCOSA offers an accredited, one-year Higher Certificate in Paralegal Studies with online support.
What qualifications do I need to be a paralegal in South Africa?
You’ll need to have a Grade 12 Certificate as a minimum entrance requirement for the relevant courses. The South African School of Paralegal Studies offers a Paralegal Diploma course that takes five months to complete and includes practical experience gained in the Magistrates Courts, Dees Office, and a law firm.
Is paralegal in high demand in South Africa?
The demand for paralegals in SA is rising as the number of attorneys and lawyers continues to increase. There are currently close to 30,000 practicing attorneys and 5,500 candidate attorneys in South Africa.