Kansas State University

MANHATTAN — Through a partnership with the Center for Legal Studies, Kansas State University is making it easy and affordable for students and professionals who are seeking classes in legal training to receive their education online.

Classes begin May 5, and in as little as seven weeks a student can complete one of the center's wide range of course offerings. The classes equip students in many areas, including paralegal, legal secretary and legal nurse. Classes also are offered in legal investigation, advanced legal research and writing, and many other areas of legal work. Taking classes and earning a certificate through this program can benefit individuals who work in industries such as banks, insurance agencies, real estate companies, accounting and engineering firms, title companies, construction companies, government agencies and many more.

"There is increasing demand for training in this area for those who work as legal assistants, but also for professionals in other areas," said Dave Stewart, associate dean of Kansas State University Global Campus. "These courses provide quality, fast paced training that enables successful students to get up to speed in a short amount of time."

Kylie Scallon, a pediatric emergency room nurse in the Omaha, Neb., area, received her legal nurse consultant certificate through Kansas State University and Center for Legal Studies in summer 2013. She has been a nurse for nine years, including four years in the emergency department. Scallon said she became interested in law after watching court scenes on TV. After some research, she decided to enroll in the certificate class.

"My hope is that having gone through this class, if or when we decide to start a family, I could do some consulting part time at home and be able to be around my family more," Scallon said. I'm hoping in the next few years that some opportunity may develop close to where I live."

Courses offered through Kansas State University and the Center for Legal Studies range from $575 to $1,650. Students who take the center's classes can choose from course delivery options, including online or live lectures, DVD, audio and text-only formats. This flexibility allows students to achieve their academic goals even if they have busy schedules.

For more information about the program and a full list of available courses, visit http://www.global.k-state.edu/pro/legal or contact Tony Ballard, coordinator, at 785-532-2402 or tballard@k-state.edu.