Best Universities for Masters certificate program in Legal Assistant/Paralegal

Get on the fast track to becoming a paralegal.

Market demand for paralegals has grown significantly in recent years, and is expected to continue growing in the future. But while demand is rising, so is competition for the best jobs in the field.

The North Carolina State Bar has designated UNC-Chapel Hill as a qualified paralegal studies program. UNC-Chapel Hill is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE). Upon completion of the program, participants are eligible to take the North Carolina State Bar Paralegal Certification Exam.

If you have a professional background in law or in a legal field, this program might be right for you. UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies' ABA-Approved Paralegal Certificate combines practical skills with legal theory and analysis. Classes are taught by prominent attorneys and experienced paralegals who will provide you with a balanced perspective and insight into the tasks paralegals perform. You will gain a good understanding of the working relationship between the paralegal and attorney as well as civil litigation. Areas of curriculum include legal research, writing, and substantive and procedural law.

American Bar Association (ABA) approval has become a benchmark for many employers who hire paralegals. Both the UC San Diego Extension accelerated and part-time study programs have been granted ABA approval.

Familiarization with the U.S. legal system and the role of the paralegal in the delivery of legal services in public and private sectors.

Build critical paralegal skills such as investigation, legal research, and written and oral communication.

Understand the theoretical background to perform the paralegal tasks in substantive areas of law and legal specialties.

Training in areas of procedural law emphasizing the paralegal role in litigation, mediation and arbitration.

Learn the general principles of ethical legal practice as defined by the ABA Standing Committee on Ethics and Professional Responsibility, and California Business Professions code 6450.

All students must take at least nine semester credits or the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction.

The ABA defines a Paralegal as a person, qualified by education, training, or work experience who is employed or retained by an attorney, law form, corporation, governmental agency or other entity who performs specifically delegated substantive legal work under the direction and supervision of a practicing licensed attorney. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law. Code 6450 et.

We carefully review the background and qualifications of each applicant to ensure that those admitted into the program will have a successful experience.

You must have one of the following test scores to participate in the ABA-Approved Paralegal Certificate program:.

ELI Level: Successful completion of level 8 in Legal English program.

Copy of your academic transcripts in English, indicating a strong academic record include grading key.

All programs close when they are full. Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis until all seats available are taken by the most qualified applicants. Acceptance deadline is 3 weeks before the program start-date.

All enrolled students are required to complete an online pre-arrival orientation before starting the Paralegal Certificate.

Books and materials for the legal courses are included in the price of the program. However, books and materials for all business courses (for the three-quarter Paralegal Certificate) must be purchased separately.

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Accelerate Your Career by Earning a Paralegal Certificate Online.

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This non-credit certificate consists of modules that explore everything from the technology and tools used by paralegals in the field to the nuances of popular areas of law. The online paralegal certificate coursework offers aspiring paralegals the chance to develop the specific professional know-how that employers are seeking. Those already in the field can also benefit by learning new foundational legal knowledge and further developing their research and writing skills.

Watch our online Paralegal Studies Program with Joe Spada.

The online Paralegal Certificate Program offers a number of distinct benefits to its students, including:.

An intensive course of study that is completed in 14 weeks.

A unique technology module that provides hands-on experience in the latest software utilized by paralegals.

The ability to complete paralegal courses from anywhere in a convenient online format.

The online Paralegal Certificate Program consists of seven, two-week modules that make up the fundamental coursework. The paralegal certificate can be earned in fourteen weeks upon the successful completion of these modules:.

View full course descriptions on the curriculum page.

Become a Paralegal: Setting Yourself Up for Success in a High-demand Profession.

Spada exploring the many facets of becoming and working as a paralegal, including:.

What to look for in an online paralegal certificate program.

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Paralegals play a vital role in the legal profession, providing key support services to attorneys in both public and private practice. look to expand access to affordable legal representation, particularly in the areas of housing, family law and health care. As a result, job growth in the field is extremely robust.

Related Article: Become a Paralegal.

Paralegals, legal assistants and those seeking to become paralegals or enter other law-related occupations, including those considering law school.

Legal Assistant Paralegal allows students to apply a limited number of transfer credits from similar programs. Credit transfers are subject to these restrictions:.

Provide an official transcript showing a grade of a B or better in the course(s).

Provide a syllabus or similar comprehensive summary of the course(s) being transferred.

Provide proof that the course(s) were taken in the classroom (rather than online).

We reserve the right to accept or reject transfers based on how closely the transferring course(s) match our course offerings.

Including time in class, you should expect to spend 12 to 16 hours each week on coursework for a standard program, or 18 to 24 hours for the accelerated format.

If English is not your native language, you should have advanced English skills to enroll. Credit Programs.

Fundamentals of legal research, writing and analysis, including terminology and resources, interviewing, and documenting.

Preeminent concerns related to professional and ethical responsibility in the legal field.

In an effort to ensure the quality and rigor of this certificate program, it aligns with specific program goals.

You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For eligibility details, see the Certificate Scholarship page.

Projected job growth for paralegals in Washington state (2018-2028).

Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.

The number of courses offered each quarter varies depending on how many quarters the program covers.

Elva Gonzalez, Senior Paralegal, Perkins Coie LLP, and Past President, Washington State Paralegal Association.

Arlene Granlund, IP Paralegal Manager, Perkins Coie LLP.

Brenda Higley, Litigation Paralegal Manager, Perkins Coie LLP.

Amy Holman, Senior Litigation Paralegal, Calfo Eakes LLP.

Elissa Leavitt, Legal Operations Manager, Menlo Security, Inc.

Kurt Sahl, Program Manager, International Academic Programs, UW Continuum College.

Ally Taylor Bain, Certificate in Paralegal Studies.

Combine the convenience of online learning with the immediacy of real-time interaction.

Close and go back to the program .

No law degree required.

Discover how an enrollment coach can help you find and start a program that fits your goals.

The Swiss Army knife of any legal team, a paralegal is known for being a versatile and indispensable team player. Learn this in-demand role and get started in the field.

Where to Find Scholarships for Your Certificate Program.

Find out how you can fund your certificate program through scholarships from your school, field of study or community.

Getting Your Employer to Pay For Your Certificate or Degree.

Develop your ability to do investigative work as you learn the legal system and study techniques for carrying out criminal and civil investigations.

Our enrollment coaches can help you determine if the Certificate in Paralegal Studies is right for you. Your coach can also support you as you apply and enroll.

If you previously earned a baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution and are seeking to advance in your existing career, retool for the next phase of life, or prepare for law school, our nine-course (27 credit) Post-Baccalaureate Certificate (PBC) in Paralegal Studies provides an excellent path to your goal. Our Paralegal Studies PBC has been approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) Standing Committee on Paralegals since 1981. Its curriculum reflects the rigor and quality that ABA requires and legal employers demand.

All courses are taught by practicing attorneys and paralegals, who offer our students the benefit of their real-world legal experience and immediate access to the professional networks that enhance career success. Thanks to the long history and the success of our alumni, the program enjoys broad support in the local legal community, giving graduates access to a robust network of potential employers.

All of our classes may be completed remotely, either synchronously or asynchronously. To ensure compliance with ABA requirements, however, all students must complete at least nine credits of GLSP coursework (three GLSP classes) via in-person or synchronous transmission format.

Paralegals are trained professionals who work under the supervision of licensed attorneys.

Paralegal images in hero Lady Justice, supreme court, architectural statues heads with old historic books.

Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies 18-credit Master degree in Paralegal Studies 32-credit.

As Washington DC only academic-credit bearing paralegal studies program, the GW Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies is than just a powerful credential it is a signal to the best employers that you withstood the academic rigor of one of the nation best paralegal programs.

Paralegals perform substantive legal work, but may not provide legal services directly to the public except as permitted by law.

If you choose, you can apply the 18-credit graduate certificate toward the 32-credit master degree in Paralegal Studies. And as a credit-bearing program, the GW certificate qualifies for military benefits and federal financial aid.

ABA American Bar Association, ABA Approved Paralegal Program.

This certificate is geared towards working professionals and other nontraditional students.

Where you'll study: Education Center in Alexandria, VA Foggy Bottom Campus in Washington, D.C., or Online.

You can study on campus at the Graduate Education Center in Alexandria, Virginia or online. Students in the online program must take nine semester credits of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction. This will be provided through live online class sessions.

You can study at the Graduate Education Center in Alexandria, VA Foggy Bottom Campus in Washington, DC or online.

The Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies comprises the Core Course Sequence, made of six courses and equating to 18 credits. Completion of this certificate typically takes two or three semesters.

PSLX 6210: American Jurisprudence 3 credits. This course introduces students to the foundations, theories, history and applications of the American legal system.

PSLX 6211: Legal Research and Writing 3 credits. The legal research portion of this course introduces students to the methods, tools and rules of print and online legal research and writing, including online databases and the Bluebook.

In the legal writing portion of the course, students draft, edit, and present legal documents based upon their research, including memorandums, motions, and briefs.

PSLX 6212: Litigation 3 credits. This course provides the professional skills that are essential to supporting litigation. Ethical considerations in litigation and using legal technology are woven throughout the course.

PSLX 6223: Contracts 3 credits. This foundational course examines contract elements and attendant legal ramifications students engage in the deep analytical thinking and develop legal reasoning skills in evaluating issues arising from contract law and practice drafting and reviewing contracts.

PSLX 6224: Advanced Legal Writing 3 credits. This course includes advanced legal writing techniques and drafting for practice, including legal writing in plain English strategies for effective writing. Students draft legal memoranda, legal correspondence, and legal pleadings. Students will refine and advance legal analysis, writing and legal citation skills.

PSLX 6225: Business Entities 3 credits. This course addresses business organizations and related business law topics including securities regulation, consumer protection, regulation and compliance.

PSLX 6214: Administrative Law 3 credits. This course explores sources of law, administrative procedures, immigration law, trials and hearings, and ethical considerations.

PSLX 6215: Government Contracts 3 credits. This course surveys create, administer, draft, change, and terminate government contracts and introduces students to the unique research materials and sources of government contract law.

PSLX 6226: International Law 3 credits. This course introduces students to the rules and principles that govern relations among sovereign states, international organizations, the principles and sources of international law and the differences between international and national law, trade law and international litigation.

PSLX 6227: Intellectual Property Law 3 credits. This course surveys the legal structure of trademarks, copyrights, and patents and the processes, supporting documentation, laws, and rules regarding prosecution and litigation.

PSLX 6228 C California Law and Practice 3 credits. This course looks at an of the California government structure, court structure, rules of court, litigation support procedures and technology, and professional ethics.

Assess, adapt and utilize technology and online resources.

Applicants to the Paralegal Studies graduate certificate must have .

Graduate tuition and fees at GW are comparable to the national average for private universities. These costs, set by the GW Board of Trustees, generally increase from year to year and may vary by program and location.

Tuition is made up of many variables, so all calculations are estimates based on current tuition rates and fee structures. Total tuition and fees will adjust depending on the courses taken and the rate at which you complete your coursework. Please use this information as an approximate tuition amount based on current information and not your final investment which will appreciate over time.

18 credits $1,245 credit hour (Tuition rate applies to both the online and in-person classes).

A maximum of one legal specialty course required for the degree may be approved for transfer to the Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies from credit earned while enrolled as a non-degree student at GW or from another degree-granting school of this University or another accredited college or university.

It must not have been applied to the completion of requirements for another degree .

It must be post-baccalaureate graduate-level coursework and the student must have received a minimum grade of B in each course for which transfer credit is requested.

We periodically offer online and in-person information sessions GW Paralegal Studies programs.

GW is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Graduate Certificate Gainful Employment Disclosures are available for the Paralegal Studies In-person Program and Paralegal Studies Online Program.

Gain the knowledge and skills to succeed in the legal field.

Essential to the practice of law, the paralegal profession is expected to grow 10% by 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics.

The SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate program covers a comprehensive curriculum of 129 hours. Through content designed by practicing attorneys and paralegals, you will gain substantive foundational legal knowledge and practical experience. Includes modules in legal technology and career planning will help you prepare for success the industry.

I'm marketable now as an executive assistant with a paralegal certificate.

Emilie Beavers, SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate student.

Growth expected for the paralegal job market by 2029.

The Suffolk County Community College Paralegal Studies A.A.S. and Certificate programs are offered for paralegal education. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.

The curriculum, which is approved by the American Bar Association, provides students with a background in law as practiced in legal offices and trains them to prepare documents such as probate forms, title searches and closing statements, pleadings and discovery proceedings, legal memoranda, and corporate minutes and filings. Skilled use of the English language is essential, and a high level of verbal competence is required for completion of the curriculum. Knowledge of word processing software packages is strongly recommended.

Not all legal courses are offered on each campus each semester. Failure to do so may result in delayed completion of the program.

The certificate program is designed to serve students with either an associate or bachelor degree seeking a career-oriented education which upon satisfactory completion will enable them to enter the job market.

Although a bachelor degree is desirable, the minimum requirement for admission to the program is an associate degree with a minimum of 18 liberal arts credits. The program coordinator may make exceptions to the degree requirement for those students who do not hold a bachelor or an associate degree but who have demonstrated no less than five years of satisfactory paraprofessional experience in law firms, corporate legal departments or city town corporation counsel offices, and provide letters of recommendation from employers who are members of the Bar attesting to the applicant suitability.

Full-time students may complete the program in two semesters. Completion on a part-time basis is at the pace chosen by the student.

Transfer credit may be awarded for legal specialty courses completed at an accredited higher education institution whose Paralegal Studies Program is approved by the American Bar Association. Suffolk County Community College limits the number of legal specialty credits transferred into the degree or certificate program to no than six credits. In addition, students must complete at least 30 credit hours for the degree or 15 credit hours for the certificate of the required coursework at Suffolk County Community College.

Certificates are usually one year in length and lead directly to employment. They consist of a focused series of courses and are typically found at Community Colleges.

As a SUNY Community College, we respond to the educational need of all people and their local, state, and global communities. We offer certificate programs and associate degrees, as well as transfer and career services. You will benefit from flexible course scheduling and affordable career exploration.

Let put your mind at ease online learning.

Courses are semester based and classwork can be completed around your work and family commitments. There is no set time where you are required to log in to attend class.

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The deadline to apply for admission to our Summer 2023 programs is April 28 (the deadline to interview if required is April 25). The deadline to apply for admission to our Fall 2023 programs is August 18 (the deadline to interview if required is August 15).

We are currently accepting applications for our fully-remote synchronous (online) programs. If you are only interested in a campus-based program, please complete this form to join our notification list.

Prospective applicants should review our digital brochure and the admissions requirements information on the Day Program or Evening Program page, as applicable. We are unable to review any application items submitted after the deadline. the sooner you apply, the sooner you'll have a decision!

Complete the application form and pay the nonrefundable $45 application fee online. The Chrome browser seems to work best for paying the fee. You do not need to create a PayPal account to pay the application fee.

If you completed any of your education outside of the United States, you must submit a course-by-course degree evaluation conducted by a NACES member.

Recommenders may write a traditional letter or complete the Paralegal Recommendation Form. Recommendations must be signed and specific to the USD Paralegal Program.

A personal interview to discuss program career goals is required for applicants who do not possess a baccalaureate or associate of arts or science degree from an accredited postsecondary institution (applicants to our evening program with legal work experience for whom we have previously determined eligibility to apply). The interview is not required for degree holders and does not impact their admission. The deadline to interview for the upcoming term is posted in the Program Snapshot.

Requirements are detailed under the admissions requirements information on the Day Program or Evening Program page, as applicable.

Application items may be submitted in any order. Transcripts must be official and sent directly from the institution.

Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.

The Paralegal Institute’s Mission is to prepare students for careers as legal support professionals by providing a well-balanced, fully-integrated education including substantive knowledge, practical skills and a perspective of themselves and the community that enable them to perform effectively in a variety of legal settings.

Earn your Certificate in Paralegal Studies by completing just 10 courses. Courses cover a variety of legal topics - all applicable to a career in the field of law.

The Values that guide the Paralegal Institute are a devotion to the University’s Spiritan ideals, commitment to the ethical obligations of legal services professionals and acceptance of individual responsibility in advancing the Institute’s Mission in furtherance of its Vision.