Thomas Edison State University in Trenton recently approved college credit for incarcerated individuals who complete the Paralegal Studies and Training Program, the university announced Thursday.
This program offered by the New Jersey Department of Corrections was approved by TESU’s Professional Learning Review process and is equivalent to three college credits.
Incarcerated learners who successfully complete the DOC program can apply the three-credit award toward select associate and bachelor’s degree programs at TESU, including the associate in applied science in administrative studies and the associate in arts and Bachelor of Arts in liberal studies (general management).
A national study by the RAND Corporation found that incarcerated individuals who participate in correctional education programs are 43 percent less likely to return to prison.
Chief of programs and reintegration services at NJDOC Darcella Sessomes explained the benefits.
“Programs like the Paralegal Studies and Training Certificate not only equip incarcerated learners with vital legal skills, but they also empower them to serve others, contribute to a safer facility environment, and prepare for meaningful careers post-release,” she said.
NJDOC provides incarcerated learners with access to associate and bachelor’s degrees through partnerships with NJ-STEP, alongside career and technical programs in fields such as construction, culinary arts, and IT. The Paralegal Studies and Training Certificate builds on this foundation, aiming to equip students with legal knowledge and the ability to support their peers from within.
Assistant vice provost at TESU Mary Kierst explained the partnership.
“Our review team was particularly impressed with the curriculum’s coverage of civil, administrative, and basic law concepts, as well as the high-quality reference materials aligned with New Jersey legal and corrections policy,” she said.
“This partnership reinforces the power of learning to transform lives and create new pathways to reentry and personal agency.”
