Paralegal – Honours Bachelor at Durham College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Program Overview

Durham College offers a Paralegal Honours Bachelor degree designed to equip students with a solid 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 in Ontario, where there is an increasing need for affordable legal representation and access to the justice system. Students will develop critical thinking skills, learn to analyze complex legal issues, and advocate for the rights of diverse client groups, including marginalized communities. The program emphasizes cultural competency and provides a comprehensive understanding of legal frameworks and historical case law, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for various legal challenges.

Program Structure

The Paralegal Honours Bachelor program at Durham College is structured to be completed in nine semesters and is delivered in person. Key features of the program include:

Experiential Learning: A mandatory 14-week, 420-hour field placement allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world legal settings.
Comprehensive Curriculum: The program covers a wide range of legal topics, ensuring students are well-versed in multiple areas of law.
Support for Diverse Populations: Students gain insights into the unique legal challenges faced by various marginalized communities.

This program is designed to meet the entry-level competencies required for licensed paralegals in Ontario, preparing students for a career in various legal fields.

Featured Experiences

The Paralegal Honours Bachelor program offers several unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Field Placement: A crucial component of the program, students engage in a 14-week, 420-hour field placement in settings such as law firms, legal clinics, or government agencies.
Hands-on Learning: Students apply their theoretical knowledge in practical environments, bridging the gap between academic studies and real-world legal practice.
Cultural Competency Training: The program emphasizes understanding the legal needs of diverse populations, including immigrants, refugees, and Indigenous peoples.

These experiences are designed to prepare students for the complexities of the legal profession and enhance their employability upon graduation.

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 under the supervision of a lawyer.
Community Legal Worker: Assist individuals in navigating legal issues and accessing legal 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.

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Last updated on 2025-04-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Paralegal – Honours Bachelor program at Durham College, students 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%.

Six post-secondary credits with a combined minimum average of 65% including:
- College or university English or Communications with a final minimum grade of 60%.

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure their place in the program. For any clarification or support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

Applicants may be admitted to Durham College for our undergraduate programs if they have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent high school diploma from another country which includes:

One senior-level English language credit (from an English-speaking country as listed below)
Equivalent English Proficiency test results (see chart below), or
Completion of an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program through one of our recognized English Language Partner schools.

Applicants from Canadian curriculum high schools, both inside and outside of Canada, must complete a minimum of three years of high school credits to be considered for exemption from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript.

Applicants with a minimum of three years of high school or post-secondary studies in Canada, Australia, Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, New Zealand, Singapore, United States, United Kingdom, Philippines, some Caribbean countries, and selected other countries may be exempted from TOEFL/Academic IELTS requirements upon provision of a full transcript. Exceptions may apply.

English Language Score Requirements:

Academic IELTS: 6.5, no band score less than 6.0
IBT TOEFL: 88, with minimum section scores of 22
PTE Academic: 60 minimum overall, no section below 57 L,W,S,R
CAEL: Overall score of 70, no section below 70
DET: 115

Exceptions:

Practical Nursing: Academic IELTS: 7.0, with no band less than 6.5
TOEFL: 94, with minimum section scores of 23

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!