The University of California San Diego

Date: Nov 02 2006
Major: Political Science (This Major's Salary over time)
Before anyone gets the wrong idea I am writing this review in regards to the UCSD Extension and not the main university. First let me begin by saying, if you have ever considered attending the UCSD Extension Paralegal Course don't waste your time or money. I have never experienced, nor heard of, a more disorganized, ill-prepared, ill-conceived program anywhere in the academic community. I entered the program expecting a quality program with qualified professors but was thoroughly disappointed. With the exception of two professors, the paralegal faculty had little regard for the students education. The curriculum was far from challenging with the majority of the tests being open-book, multiple choice, and take-home (and what I mean by this is you take your multiple-choice test home and use your book to answer all the questions). The intent of the program is to provide individuals interested in the paralegal field with a rudimentary understanding of the legal system which in turn will help the individual began a career in the legal field. The program taught me little more than what can be learned via shows like Boston Legal and Ally McBeal. The certificate the program offers is not a requirement for hire as a paralegal and even with the certificate, without years of experience, it is unlikely you will be hired as a paralegal in the first place. The job placement assistance is a joke (unless of course an occasional email from one of the professors regarding a temp secretary position at their friends private practice is what you consider job placement assistance). My suggestion for anyone looking at the field is first look someplace other than UCSD Extension (overpriced, underplanned) and second look at other employment options.