The University of Illinois Springfield is expanding its academic programs to better serve students and meet workforce needs by enhancing its Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies program with new transfer pathways focused on paralegal preparation and introducing a Public Leadership minor open to all undergraduate majors.

Enhanced legal studies pathways

UIS has strengthened the paralegal-oriented options within its Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies program, making it easier for students to prepare for paralegal careers or pursue other professional goals. The enhanced curriculum provides strong preparation for students interested in paralegal work as well as those considering law school, graduate study or other legal and public service careers.

As part of this effort, UIS has established new transfer agreements with Lewis and Clark Community College, City Colleges of Chicago, College of DuPage, Joliet Junior College and South Suburban College. These agreements create clear pathways that streamline the transition to UIS and can reduce the time to degree completion for students who have completed paralegal-oriented coursework at their community college.

Graduates of the UIS legal studies program are prepared to work as paralegals immediately after earning their degree. They are also eligible to sit for the national paralegal certification exam offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), provided they complete certain required courses as part of their degree. While certification is not required for employment, it can enhance a graduate’s professional credentials and career opportunities.

New Public Leadership minor

UIS is also introducing a Public Leadership minor in the School of Public Management and Policy, designed to prepare students for leadership roles that strengthen communities and improve society. Students will build skills in cultural awareness, ethical decision-making, strategic planning, civic engagement and communication while learning about various leadership approaches. The minor includes leadership skill-building exercises and the development of a portfolio documenting leadership goals, activities and reflections.

Offered in partnership between Academic Affairs and Student Affairs, the minor will integrate classroom learning with experiential opportunities such as leadership summits, workshops and team-building activities. Students will be able to participate at different levels — from individual workshops to completing the full minor — based on their interests and goals.

A series of student focus groups helped shape the program’s design, highlighting a strong interest in leadership development that is flexible, practical and aligned with real-world applications. The minor requires a minimum of 15 credit hours.

The Public Leadership minor reflects UIS’ mission as the public university in the state capital dedicated to developing the next generation of leaders.