Paralegal Certificate
Paralegal certificates serve two key purposes: they provide an entry point for those beginning a paralegal career and offer additional expertise for experienced paralegals looking to advance their skills. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), there are 314 paralegal certificate programs at public and private non-profit schools across the United States.1
Table of Contents
- Learning Goals
- Program Options
- Admission Requirements
- Core Concepts
- Select Program Profiles
- Jobs With a Paralegal Certificate
- Frequently Asked Questions
Paralegal Certificate Learning Goals
Paralegal certificate programs focus on building essential skills in legal knowledge, task management, and communication, preparing students for dynamic roles in legal settings. Here are the main learning goals for paralegal certificate programs:
1. Develop a thorough understanding of the law.
A successful paralegal must understand how the law and legal systems function. Students should take introductory coursework on laws and the legal system during a general paralegal certificate program. This foundational knowledge equips students to work in various legal environments upon graduation. Specialized certificate programs should provide foundational knowledge of the specified area of the law, and are often supplemented with practical experience.
2. Perform a diverse range of legal tasks professionally and effectively.
A primary goal of a paralegal certificate program is to prepare graduates to work in diverse, fast-paced legal environments by performing various legal tasks. Regardless of specialization, graduates learn how to organize files, prepare legal documents and research, and take detailed notes under the supervision of lawyers. They also develop analytical skills to think critically about legal cases and support case development.
3. Hone clear written and oral communication skills.
The legal field requires precision and attention to detail. Many paralegal certificate programs require written and oral communication classes, covering skills like note-taking, legal analysis, and interviewing. These skills ensure graduates are prepared to work effectively with attorneys, other legal professionals, and clients.
Paralegal Certificate Program Options
Obtaining a paralegal certificate can be the first step in a paralegal career, or the credential needed for a more experienced paralegal to specialize in a particular area of law. There are two main types of paralegal certificates:
- Generalist certificates: Offer an introduction to the paralegal field, ideal for those pursuing entry-level positions or planning to advance to a paralegal associate degree or paralegal bachelor’s degree.
- Specialized certificates: Designed for experienced paralegals looking to deepen expertise in a specific area of law.
Both certificates can take four months to two years to complete and are available on-campus and online. Generalist paralegal certificate programs prepare graduates for entry-level positions by providing foundational legal knowledge and a broad set of skills. Generalist paralegal programs suit students, from high school diplomas to bachelor’s degrees. Specialized certificate programs focus on specific areas of law, helping graduates gain expertise for specialized roles and increasing their employability. Typically, specialized paralegal certificate programs require some prior legal experience. Specialized paralegal certificates may be in:
- Criminal Law
- Corporate Law
- Family Law
- Immigration Law
- Litigation
- Personal Injury Law
- Real Estate Law
Online Degree Program Formats
Many students prefer the flexibility of earning a paralegal certificate online, so many schools offer online paralegal certificate programs and hybrid programs that can be completed with limited on-campus visits. Online programs include both generalist and specialized certificates and are especially convenient for students who want to keep working while they pursue their education.
Admission Requirements
The admission requirements for paralegal certificate programs vary based on the certificate type. Applicants to generalist paralegal certificate programs typically need at least a high school diploma or GED, but some courses require an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in any subject. Previous coursework in communications or legal studies may be preferred but is not usually required. Specialized certificate programs often require applicants to have an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in any subject and either work experience or a general paralegal certificate. Applicants may also need to submit professional references or letters of recommendation.
Core Concepts and Coursework
Paralegal certificate programs often include both legal theory courses and skills training such as:
Generalist Certificates
- Civil Procedures
- Contracts
- Estates and Trusts
- Interviewing Skills
- Introduction to Legal Studies
- Legal Communications
- Legal Ethics
- Legal Office Technology and Software
- Researching the Law
Specialized Certificates
- Adoption Law and Process
- Advanced Civil Litigation
- Asylum and Refugee Law
- Contract Drafting and Negotiation
- Corporate Structures and Compliance
- Family Law and Domestic Relations
- Immigration Law and Policy
- Landlord-Tenant Law
- Legal Issues in Criminal Defense
- Tort Law and Personal Injury
- Trial Preparation and Strategy
- Workers’ Compensation Law
Select Paralegal Certificate Programs
Traditional Programs
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw State University’s College of Graduate and Professional Education offers a paralegal certificate program for applicants with a high school diploma or GED. The curriculum includes 13 courses such as Contracts and Business Associations, Civil Litigation, and Tort Law. This self-paced program offers great flexibility as each course is six weeks long. One to four courses can be taken during each session term and new applicants are accepted in January, March, April, June, August, and October. Classes are held during the daytime and evenings. Many students finish the program in one year. The college also offers specialty courses in areas such as immigration law and HIPAA compliance, which can be taken as continuing education or as non-credit electives during the program.
University of California-Los Angeles
The ABA-approved paralegal certificate at the University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) is offered by the Business, Management, and Legal Programs Department of UCLA’s continuing education branch called UCLA Extension. The program is offered at both the Westwood and downtown Los Angeles campuses and is open to students with a bachelor’s degree. The program can be delivered in two formats. The five-month format requires students to attend classes Monday through Friday each morning, while the 11-month program takes place on two evenings per week. Students in both formats take the same courses, including Legal Research, Contracts, and Civil Procedures. Start dates are offered during the Fall, Winter, and Spring terms with information sessions held throughout the year to help potential applicants learn more about the program and career opportunities.
University of La Verne
The University of La Verne offers a Paralegal Studies Certificate approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Admission is open to all applicants with a bachelor’s degree or 60 semester hours earned at a regionally accredited college. The 32 semester hours in the required curriculum encompass such courses as American Legal Studies; Legal Research and Writing; and Paralegal Internship & Ethics. Students may also take electives such as Property/Real Estate Transactions; Immigration Law and Procedure; and Law in Film and Literature. Courses are offered in the spring and fall semesters with classes meeting weekly in the evenings. La Verne also offers a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Paralegal Studies and a minor in American Law.
Online and Hybrid Programs
The University of California Berkeley
The University of California Berkeley offers a paralegal certificate program designed for individuals with a high school diploma. The program is delivered fully online and can be completed in as little as six months; however, the maximum program duration is one year. Six courses are required, including two core courses and four electives. New students begin by taking Essential Paralegal Studies Part I: Foundational Skills and progress to specialized courses such as Paralegal Contract Law, Paralegal Family Law, and Paralegal California Procedures. Students who enroll in Essential Paralegal Skills Part II: Authority, Research, and Writing receive one-year access to LexisNexis and six-month access to Westlaw. The Berkeley certificate program in Paralegal Studies meets the educational requirements to become a certified paralegal professional in California.
Boston University
For students looking for an online program with more structure, the paralegal certificate program at Boston University’s Center for Professional Education (CPE) provides a fully online learning experience with a module format. Students must take seven required two-week modules and submit assignments on time during each module. Modules include Legal Research; Technology and the Paralegal; and Litigation. Six start dates are offered throughout the year and the certificate program is typically completed in 14 weeks. Prospective students are invited to take a free online learning course tour before committing to the program. While a degree or work experience is not required, it is recommended that applicants have either an undergraduate degree or several years of work experience, as well as basic computer and internet proficiencies.
Duke University
Duke University’s (Duke) Continuing Studies department offers many different online paralegal certificate programs. The generalist paralegal certificate program includes 300 hours of study and is self-paced; however, students must complete all requirements within one year. Applicants must have an associate’s degree in any subject for consideration. Over 20 specialist paralegal certificates are also offered, including certificates in Business Law, Criminal Law, Immigration Law, and Workers’ Compensation Law. Each certificate program comprises four courses, is self-paced, and takes as little as six months to complete. Applicants must have either a degree or a certificate in paralegal studies or a bachelor’s degree in any subject with at least three years of legal studies work experience. Enrollment dates are offered throughout the year.
Jobs With a Paralegal Certificate
Paralegals must work under the supervision of attorneys so they typically find work in private law firms. Other opportunities exist in the armed forces, government, and the public and non-profit sectors. While most graduates look for paralegal jobs upon graduation, a paralegal certificate also provides useful skills training for other legal-related jobs. Careers for which a paralegal certificate may prepare you include:
- Administrative Assistant
- Claims Adjuster
- Compliance Officer
- Contract Administrator
- Court Reporter
- Document Reviewer
- Executive Assistant
- Generalist Paralegal
- Law Clerk
- Legal Advocate
- Legal Assistant
- Legal Researcher
- Legal Secretary
- Litigation Support Specialist
- Paralegal
- Specialist Paralegal
- Title Examiner
- Transcriptionist
- Victim Advocate
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do paralegals work?
According to a recent report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 75% of all paralegals were employed in legal services.2 The remaining paralegals were in the federal, state, and local levels of government and finance and insurance.2 Paralegals employed in finance and insurance and the federal government had the highest median annual salaries at $77,630 and $74,380 respectively.2
Can I specialize in a particular area of law?
Yes. Many paralegals begin with a general certificate or degree and then pursue a specialized certificate after gaining work experience. Paralegal skills are versatile and valuable across all areas of law, so specialization is optional and can align with your career goals.
How much do paralegals make and what is the job outlook for paralegals?
According to recent reports from the BLS, the median annual salary for paralegals was $60,970.2 The job outlook for paralegals through 2033 is projected to be slower than other professions, at 1%.2
Can I complete an internship in a certificate program?
Due to the shorter length of paralegal certificate programs, internships are generally not included. However, some schools offer placement assistance or job search support after graduation. During the application process, check with school advisors or faculty about available work opportunities and resources.
Can I become certified with a paralegal certificate?
While certification is not required in most states, paralegals in certain states, such as North Carolina, Ohio, and Texas, can become certified through their state bar association. In many cases, a paralegal certificate meets the requirements for state certification. National certification options are also available through organizations like the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). For more on certification, visit our becoming a paralegal page.
Do I need to attend an ABA-approved paralegal certificate program?
While some paralegal certificate and degree programs are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), ABA is optional, and a non-approved program can still provide thorough training. Some employers may prefer ABA-approved credentials so consider your career goals when choosing a program.
References:
1. National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator: https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/
2. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Occupational Outlook Handbook: Paralegals and Legal Assistants: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm