Office Administration - Legal
- Credential:
- Ontario College Diploma
- College Code:
- CONS
- School:
- Business
- Program Code:
- 1098
- Accelerated Delivery:
- No
- Campus:
- DO
- Academic Year:
- 2018 / 2019
About the Program
The two-year Office Administration - Legal program provides students with a specialization in legal administrative procedures and processes to meet the needs of an increasingly global and technologically advancing legal industry.In the first year, students build strong technological, administrative, and communication skills, and are introduced to office procedures specific to the legal environment. Students begin their legal studies with civil litigation.
In the second year, students continue to apply substantive and procedural law to the production of legal documentation in the areas of family law, litigation, real estate, wills and estates, and corporate law. Students receive extensive administrative training by completing client files and accounting procedures, integrating a variety of current computer programs and specialized legal software.
Throughout the program, students are exposed to a wide variety of hands-on practical applications with an emphasis on organizational, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. As a capstone to the program, students showcase their skills by completing a 90-hour work placement.
Program Information
Length: Two-year Ontario College Diploma programDelivery Sequence: Doon (Kitchener) - September/2018 - Fall | Winter | Fall | Winter
Location: Doon (Kitchener)
Start: September
First-Year Capacity: 45
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or 19 years of age or older with mature student status (See Mature Student definition for details.)
- Grade 12 compulsory English, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1270)
- For more information on preparatory programs, visit Academic Upgrading
Admission Procedures
- An academic strength is calculated by averaging the submitted marks of required subjects. If more than one mark is received for a required subject, the highest mark will be used in the calculation.
- Ten (10) additional marks are added to each Advanced level, OAC, U, U/C, and post-secondary course used in the calculation of academic strength.
- A sound English background is important for success in this program and is considered during the admission selection process. Minimum cutoffs apply.
Program Requirements
- Students in the Office Administration - General, Executive and Legal programs should demonstrate:
- the physical ability to "touch type" to industry standards (NOTE: a graduation requirement).
- a strong interest and aptitude in computer applications
. - a solid base of written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.
- the ability to produce business-related documentation to time-sensitive deadlines.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition fee details for the 2018-2019 year are listed below. Books and supplies are additional.
Domestic Fees
Estimated fees based upon the previous academic year (2017 / 2018) for Office Administration - Legal - Program # 1098
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Program Tuition | $1498.00 | $1498.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $2340.40 | $2017.40 |
| Year Total | $4357.80 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Program Tuition | $1498.00 | $1498.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $2340.40 | $2017.40 |
| Year Total | $4357.80 |
International Fees
Estimated International fees based upon the previous academic year (2017 / 2018) for
Office Administration - Legal - Program # 1098
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $6000.00 | $6000.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $7702.40 | $6894.40 |
| Year Total | $14596.80 |
| Description | Fall 2018 | Winter 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $6000.00 | $6000.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $50.65 | $50.65 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $28.45 | $28.45 |
| Administration Fee | $25.90 | $25.90 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $142.75 | $142.75 |
| CSI Capital Development Fee | $72.65 | $72.65 |
| CSI Association Fee | $110.00 | $110.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $5.75 | $5.75 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| International Health Insurance | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| International Health Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $12.75 | $12.75 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $485.00 | $0.00 |
| Session Total | $7702.40 | $6894.40 |
| Year Total | $14596.80 |
Financial Assistance
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a needs-based program designed to help Ontario students cover the cost of post-secondary education. Funded by the federal and provincial governments, OSAP is intended to promote equality of opportunity for post-secondary studies through direct financial assistance for educational costs and living expenses. These interest-free loans are intended to supplement your financial resources and those of your family. The majority of students apply for loan assistance via the OSAP website. Students can also print the application booklet through the OSAP website.For more information, please visit Financial Services/Awards.
Graduate Opportunities
Graduates of the Office Administration - Legal program are in high demand. A wide variety of employment opportunities are available in law firms, government offices, real estate and insurance companies, financial institutions, legal departments or corporations.On average, 93% of graduates from the last three years (2014 to 2016) found employment within six months of graduation.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home
Pathways & Credit Transfer
Conestoga pathways enable students to build on their academic achievements in order to earn a degree or additional credential. Pathways are formed through agreements between Conestoga programs or partner institutions. View the transfer agreement opportunities for this program.Often applicants have earned credits from another college or university that may allow a student to be granted advanced standing or exemption. Learn more about credit transfer opportunities at Conestoga.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
Conestoga recognizes prior learning of skills, knowledge or competencies that have been acquired through employment, formal and informal education, non-formal learning or other life experiences. Prior learning must be measurable at the required academic level and meet Conestoga standards of achievement for current courses. Challenge exams and portfolio development are the primary methods of assessment. Other methods of assessment may be available depending upon the nature of the course objectives. Successful completion of the assessment results in an official course credit that will be recorded on the student's Conestoga transcript. PLAR cannot be used by registered Conestoga students for the clearance of academic deficiencies, to improve grades or to obtain admission into a program.Learn more about PLAR.
Program Courses
| Course Code | Course Title and Description |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | |
| ADMN1305 | Document Processing
Description: In this course, students will develop and apply touch typing skills to the preparation of business documents typically used in an office environment. Using a web-based software program, students will apply touch typing skills to the production of a variety of business-related documents including business letters, memos, and E-mail messages according to specific content, layout and formatting guidelines. Students will be expected to organize work and produce correctly formatted and accurate work within a specified timeframe. |
| COMM1085 | College Reading & Writing Skills
Description: This course focuses on the reading, writing and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse, summarize, and discuss a variety of readings and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising in response to written prompts. This course prepares students for post-secondary writing tasks, research, and documentation. |
| COMP1080 | Spreadsheets
Description: Students gain hands-on experience using Microsoft Excel creating an assortment of spreadsheet documents. A variety of software features will be explored including: worksheet chart and database features; multi-sheet workbook options; functions, formulas and 3-D formulas and a variety of formatting tools. |
| COMP1355 | Presentation Software
Description: This course focuses on tools and techniques for creating professional business presentations. Students will demonstrate proficiency using presentation and desktop publishing software. Students will use presentation software to create effective slide presentations that incorporate text, graphics, sound and other multi-media effects. Students will use desktop publishing software to design and produce professional, quality documents that combine text, graphics, illustrations, and photographs. |
| COMP1913 | Word Processing
Description: Students gain hands-on experience with the most current word processing software, creating an assortment of business-related documents typically found in today's office environment. A wide range of software features will be explored and implemented to ensure efficiency in document production and proper formatting procedures. Proofreading skills will be emphasized to ensure accuracy. In addition, students will be introduced to the Windows operating system and will employ effective file management techniques. |
| MATH1820 | Foundations of Business Math
Description: This course will provide the student with learning tools that will help them to improve basic arithmetic skills and to develop reasoning and problem solving skills. It is designed for students to help them bridge any existing gap between their current preparation and college level math. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
| Level 2 | |
| BUS1395 | Legal Office Procedures
Description: This course focuses on the skills required to be a productive member of an office team in a legal environment. Students develop the necessary skills to work effectively in an office by applying time management skills to increase productivity and effectiveness, develop strong customer service skills and telephone technique, manage scheduling, use E-mail and voice mail effectively, manage files and folders, and prepare correspondence and documents common to a legal office. Emphasis will be placed on the theory of office procedures and the production of legal-related documents in a simulated office environment. |
| BUS2210 | Legal Office Applications
Description: This course focuses on the practical hands-on bookkeeping responsibilities of a legal assistant in conjunction with the day-to-day running of a legal practice. In addition to preparing accounts and related financial documentation, students will demonstrate proficiency in the use of LexisNexis PCLaw billing and accounting software to open files and record transactions for a law office. Emphasis will be placed on the application of office procedures and the production of Small Claims Court and office-related documents in a simulated legal office environment. |
| CDEV1830 | Career Success
Description: This course focuses on the skills needed to conduct a successful job search. Students will explore the labour market and identify trends that may impact their future careers. They will develop skills for an effective job search including networking, self-marketing documents and tools as well as interview skills. Mock interviews will provide the opportunity for practice, feedback and reflection as students prepare for future interviews. Students will develop a personalized job search plan to support their future careers. |
| COMM1410 | Fundamentals for Effective Written Communication
Description: This course is designed to help students acquire accuracy and clarity in written communication for business workplace settings. The course will also help students develop writing skills that reinforce the use of correct grammar and mechanics. Emphasis will be placed on applying correct grammar, punctuation, and spelling to a variety of business-related documents. |
| COMP1908 | Advanced Word Processing
Description: Building on concepts and functions developed in Word Processing, students will demonstrate mastery of advanced features of the most current word processing software to create and enhance error-free business-related documents. Proofreading and file management skills will be emphasized. |
| LAW1540 | Litigation I
Description: Students are presented with the role and responsibilities of a legal assistant in a civil litigation practice in this “hands-on course.” Students are introduced to the Ontario court system and the legislation that applies to the preparation of court documents in the Superior Court of Justice. Students will become familiar with the terminology, formatting requirements and procedural requirements of the Rules of Civil Procedure as they produce and process court documents. |
| Level 3 | |
| ADMN2220 | Legal Office Communications
Description: Using dictated material and digital transcription software, students develop knowledge of legal terminology and proficiency in language literacy to develop skills in transcribing correspondence and legal documents. The transcription material is designed to capture a general law office practice in operation. Students also develop composition and oral communication skills in response to law office simulations. Emphasis is placed on the structure of business communication and the rules of grammar. |
| ADMN2250 | Administrative Procedures and Supervisory Practices
Description: This course will focus on developing effective administrative procedures by exploring management principles and theory, supervisory leadership skills necessary to perform administrative duties such as training and supervising others, chairing meetings, preparing agendas, and taking and transcribing minutes. In addition, students would gain experience in preparing brief periodic progress reports as they apply theory and skills to event planning that would result in a forum involving guest speakers from the administrative field throughout the community. |
| BUS1021 | Organizational Behaviour
Description: Studying people and organizations, this course examines the behaviour of individuals working alone or in teams. Using actual examples, this course examines how behavioural factors affect organizational effectiveness. Note: This course is an approved |
| LAW2160 | Family Law
Description: Students will be introduced to the role and responsibilities of a legal assistant employed in the field of family law in Ontario. Specialized terminology and statutes relevant to the practice of family law will be introduced. Emphasis will be placed on following appropriate procedures in the production of documentation. In addition to word processing software, students are introduced to current industry-related software to maintain client data and general legal documentation. |
| LAW2360 | Litigation II
Description: In this practical simulation course, students continue to learn about their role and responsibilities within the adversarial system in Ontario. Students will apply procedural requirements of the Rules of Civil Procedure and use specialized automated legal software to produce and process the documentation required from the initial stages to disposition of civil legal proceedings. |
| LAW2380 | Real Estate I
Description: In this practical simulation course, students are introduced to types of land ownership and the land registration systems in Ontario. Using Teraview proprietary software students will access the Government of Ontario's land records database to examine title details and use the information to produce e-reg documents. Students will use legal proprietary software to assist them in processing a sale transaction to completion. Students will apply appropriate procedures and administrative skills to produce documents and correspondence that meet the standards of mailability and procedural requirements. |
| OHS1320 | Safety in the Workplace
Description: This course focuses on developing awareness and skills for the student to safely manage and conduct him or herself within a variety of employment settings. Through the nine units of the course, participants will have the opportunity to enhance their understanding and knowledge of General Health and Safety guidelines, including WHMIS, Fire Safety and Workplace Violence. The unit on Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act will instruct the student on the requirements for Accessible Customer Service and Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulations. General information on Safe Driving, Privacy of Information and Hand Washing will be addressed as well. The course also provides participants with critical information regarding their insurance coverage (WSIB or other) while employed. As well as guidelines to follow in the event of an injury. Participants will receive a printable Record of Completion upon successful conclusion of this course, in order to demonstrate awareness of safe working practices to their employers. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
| Level 4 | |
| FPLT2020 | Field Placement (Office Administration Legal)
Description: This practical course gives the student the opportunity to work within a legal environment to consolidate theories and skills gained throughout the program. The student is required to source his/her own field placement with guidance from faculty. Students must successfully complete a three-week field placement with a minimum of 90 hours during regular office hours, as approved. The placement will occur in the final year during the last three weeks of the semester. |
| LAW2180 | Corporate Law
Description: The fundamentals of corporate and commercial law, including unincorporated forms of business ownership and incorporation of an Ontario business corporation are studied . Procedures related to incorporating a private Ontario Corporation, organizing and maintaining the Minute Book and attending to post-incorporation matters are also covered. Emphasis will be placed on following appropriate procedures in the production of documentation to complete documents related to corporate and commercial law. In addition to word processing software, students are introduced to current industry-related software to maintain client data and general legal documentation. |
| LAW2190 | Wills and Estates
Description: Students will be introduced to the role and responsibilities of a legal assistant employed in the field of wills and estates. Specialized terminology and statutes relevant to the practice of wills and estates will be introduced. Emphasis will be placed on following appropriate procedures in the production of documentation. In addition to word processing software, students are introduced to current industry-related software to maintain client data and general legal documentation. |
| LAW2390 | Real Estate II
Description: Students will expand skills learned in Real Estate I to complete residential purchase transactions. Students will use legal proprietary software to assist them in processing residential purchase transactions, including condominiums, to completion. Students will apply appropriate procedures and administrative skills to produce documents and correspondence that meet the standards of mailability and procedural requirements. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
Program Outcomes
- Conduct oneself professionally and adhere to relevant legislation, standards and codes of ethics.
- Manage the scheduling, coordination and organization of administrative tasks and workflow within specific deadlines and according to set priorities and procedures.
- Coordinate the collection, analysis, distribution and response to communications in the workplace to facilitate the flow of information.
- Operate and provide support to others related to the use of office equipment and technologies.
- Evaluate, establish and administer legal records management systems* to ensure confidential, secure, accessible and organized electronic and paper records*.
- Produce client account and billing records* for legal services by compiling relevant information and using accounting software.
- Produce legal documentation for corporate, civil, family, real estate and wills and estates law using available technologies and applying industry standards.
- Use interpersonal and client service skills to respond to diversity and to support the goals of the organization.
Program Advisory Committees
The College appoints Program Advisory Committee members for diploma, degree, certificate and apprenticeship programs. Committees are composed of employers, practitioners and recent program graduates. College representatives (students, faculty, and administrators) are resource persons. Each committee advises the Board on the development of new programs, the monitoring of existing programs and community acceptance of programs.For a list of the current members, please visit our Program Advisory Committees.
Program Handbook
Apply Now
Domestic students should apply online at www.ontariocolleges.ca or by phone at 1-888-892-2228.ONTARIOCOLLEGES.CA
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
Canada N1G 5J3
Detailed steps on the application process may help you to apply.
International students should apply online using the Conestoga College International Application Portal. Please note: not all programs are open to international students. Interested students should check the listing of open programs on our international students web page before applying.
Disclaimer
The College reserves the right to alter information including requirements and fees and to cancel at any time a program, course, or program major or option; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies in the job market or for budgetary reasons; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations, over-acceptance of offers of admission, budgetary constraints, or for other such reasons. In the event the College exercises such a right, the College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to the College.
Students actively registered in cohort delivered programs who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs must complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.
