AMHERST, N.Y. – Daemen College’s Paralegal Studies Program has been granted approval by the American Bar Association, making it one of only two ABA-approved college programs in the Buffalo Niagara region.

Following an extensive evaluation process, the seven-year approval for Daemen’s program was awarded by the ABA Standing Committee on Paralegals. The college’s paralegal studies program was determined to have met rigorous requirements in curriculum, faculty selection and instruction, quality of student work, and support by administration and the legal community.  

 “Designation as an ABA-approved program is a key milestone that speaks to the exceptional quality of our paralegal studies program,” said Dr. Michael Brogan, vice president for academic affairs and dean of the college. “We are proud of this achievement and the program’s commitment to academic excellence in educating future paralegal professionals.”

Of the more than 910 programs nationwide, only 268 colleges or universities in the U.S. offer ABA-approved paralegal or legal studies programs. Daemen joins other prestigious institutions with programs that have ABA approval, including Georgetown University, Loyola University, UCLA, and Villanova University.

Margaret Phillips, director of the paralegal studies program and assistant professor, noted, “As a newly approved program, we have earned the distinction that comes with being recognized for having the high standards set by the ABA. This approval distinguishes our program as one of the highest caliber and makes us stand out to employers in the legal field, including law firms, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, corporations, banks, and the court system.”

Established in 2011, Daemen’s paralegal studies program offers a bachelor’s degree or an undergraduate certificate that includes a range of in-depth courses, internship options, and service learning opportunities in the refugee community. The college is also the only institution in Western New York to offer a post-baccalaureate certificate program. Open to students with a four-year degree, the 21-credit-hour certificate program, which can be completed in one year, is designed for recent graduates or adults changing careers who want the knowledge and skills to get a job in the legal profession.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment of paralegals and legal assistants is expected to grow 8 percent from 2014 to 2024. Currently, Daemen’s program has a 100 percent placement rate for its graduates.

The ABA, one of the world’s largest voluntary professional organizations, is committed to serving its members and improving the legal profession. The national organization’s Standing Committee on Paralegals develops and promotes policies relating to the education, employment, training, and effective use of paralegals.

To learn more about Daemen’s Paralegal Studies Program, email paralegal@daemen.edu or call Margaret Phillips at 716-839-8283.