Paralegal – Honours Bachelor at Durham College - Program overview

This program is currently under review and being updated. For the most up-to-date information, please contact us.

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-02-04

Program overview

Durham College offers a Paralegal Honours Bachelor degree designed to equip students with a robust foundation in legal studies, preparing them for a successful career in Ontario's legal sector. This program addresses the growing demand for paralegals in Canada, particularly as populations increase and the need for affordable legal representation becomes more pressing. Students will develop critical thinking skills, learn to analyze complex legal issues, and advocate for diverse client groups, including marginalized communities. The program emphasizes cultural competency and provides a comprehensive understanding of legal frameworks, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the justice system.

Program structure

The Paralegal Honours Bachelor program at Durham College is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a period of Nine semesters. The program is delivered in person, allowing for direct interaction with faculty and peers. Key features of the program structure include:

Experiential Learning: A mandatory 14-week, 420-hour field placement where students apply theoretical knowledge in real-world legal settings.
Program Options: Opportunities for co-op placements and internships may be available, enhancing practical experience.

This program is designed to prepare students for various roles within the legal field, ensuring they gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for their future careers.

Featured Experiences

The Paralegal Honours Bachelor program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey:

Field Placement: A crucial component of the program, students engage in a 14-week, 420-hour field placement, allowing them to gain hands-on experience in law firms, legal clinics, or government agencies.
Cultural Competency Training: Students learn to support diverse populations, including immigrants, refugees, Indigenous peoples, women, and LGBTQ+ clients.
Client Advocacy Skills: The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and advocacy skills, preparing students to effectively represent various client groups.
Legal Framework Exploration: Students explore key legal frameworks and historical case law that shape Canadian and international legal systems.

Career Options

Graduates of the Paralegal Honours Bachelor program can pursue a variety of career paths in the legal field. Here are some potential job options:

Licensed Paralegal: Provide legal services and representation to clients in various legal matters.
Community Legal Worker: Assist individuals in navigating the legal system and accessing necessary resources.
Prosecutor: Represent the government in criminal cases, ensuring justice is served.
Legal Assistant: Support lawyers by managing case files, conducting research, and preparing legal documents.
Law Clerk: Assist judges and lawyers by researching legal precedents and drafting legal opinions.
Tribunal Adjudicator: Oversee hearings and make decisions on legal disputes in various tribunals.

These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make a significant impact in the legal sector.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Durham College official website

Last updated on 2026-02-04

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Paralegal – Honours Bachelor program at Durham College, applicants must meet the following academic requirements:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent or Mature Student Status AND
Six Grade 12 U or M courses with a combined minimum average of 65%, including:
- Grade 12 U English with a final minimum grade of 60%.

Mature Student Status:
- Grade 12 U English with a final minimum grade of 60%.

Post-secondary courses in English will be considered.

For international students, it is essential to contact LOA Portal's advisors for any clarification and support regarding specific requirements. Additionally, transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Students who may be missing admission requirements can take advantage of Durham College's pre-admission assessment testing to meet the necessary criteria in English and/or Math. This option is available for domestic applicants who are 19 years of age or older as of the start date of their program.

For any further assistance or questions, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors who are ready to help you navigate the application process.

Language Requirements

For the Paralegal – Honours Bachelor program, applicants must meet the following English language proficiency requirements:

Grade 12 English (C or U) (English Speaking Countries only); or
IELTS Academic minimum 7.0 overall bands with no band less than 6.5; or
TOEFL 94, with no section score less than 23.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!