Pursuing an online paralegal certificate program equips students with the essential skills and knowledge to assist attorneys in various legal settings. Graduates are prepared for roles such as legal assistants, paralegals, and law clerks. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegals and legal assistants earn a median salary of $60,970 annually.
These professionals play a crucial role in preparing legal documents, conducting research, and supporting lawyers in trial preparations. If you currently hold an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, the duration to complete an online paralegal certificate program typically ranges from six months to a year, depending on whether you enroll part-time or full-time. The average cost of these programs varies widely, with tuition fees ranging from $4,000 to $20,000, influenced by the institution and program specifics.
How to Choose an Online Paralegal Certificate Program
Choose your area of study
Choosing your area of study is a crucial first step in pursuing your paralegal certificate. Start by researching the different specialties within the paralegal field, such as corporate law, family law, or criminal law. Consider your interests and strengths, as well as the demand for paralegals in various legal sectors. Talk to professionals in the field, review job descriptions, and assess the skills required. By clearly defining your area of study, you can select a program that best fits your career goals, ensuring a more focused and relevant educational experience.
Research schools and programs
Start by identifying accredited institutions that offer recognized programs. Evaluate factors like program reputation, faculty expertise, and curriculum relevance to the paralegal field. Look into delivery formats, such as fully online or hybrid options, and consider the flexibility of scheduling. Compare tuition costs and financial aid options to be sure you can afford your chosen program. Additionally, examine student support services and alumni outcomes to gauge program effectiveness. Thorough research helps ensure you choose a reputable program that aligns with your career objectives.
Prepare for tests and applications
Gather necessary documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a well-crafted personal statement. Research the prerequisites for each potential program, ensuring you meet the academic and professional requirements. Prepare for any required entrance exams by reviewing study materials and taking practice tests. Meeting deadlines is essential, so create a timeline to track application due dates and test schedules. Thorough preparation demonstrates your commitment and readiness for the program, increasing your chances of acceptance.
Select your program
Ensure that you are looking primarily at schools with accreditation from recognized bodies like the American Bar Association (ABA), which ensures quality and credibility. Compare program curricula, faculty credentials, and student support services. Assess whether the program aligns with your career goals, offering specialized courses or internships that enhance practical skills. Research each institution’s reputation, including alumni success and employer partnerships. Consulting with current students or alumni can provide insights into program strengths and areas for improvement.
Determine how you’ll pay for your certificate
Accredited programs, such as those approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), may offer financial aid options like scholarships, grants, and loans. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal aid. Research institutional scholarships and grants specific to paralegal studies. Consider work-study opportunities or employer tuition reimbursement programs if you’re currently employed. Budget for additional costs like textbooks, technology fees, and certification exam fees.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online PhD programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report among others to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Best 50 Accredited Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
intelligent score 98.78
Award
Rankings
#3 Security Degree Hub
#4 Value Colleges
#6 Best Value Schools
School Information
Chapel Hill, NC
Graduation Rate: 90%
Admission Rate: 20%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
8 courses
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$5,995 program cost
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-962-3000
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
8 courses
intelligent score 97.63
Award
Rankings
#1 Security Degree Hub
#6 Value Colleges
School Information
Athens, GA
Graduation Rate: 86%
Admission Rate: 40%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Based in Athens, GA, the University of Georgia is a highly-ranked public institution that offers a well-rounded online paralegal certificate program. Students can choose to take the standard online program, which consists of set start and end dates, or the online flex program, which allows students to complete coursework at their own pace within six months. Both options allow students to communicate directly with their instructors, and students in the standard online program will also have plenty of opportunities to network with their peers. This program requires 90 total credit hours and costs $1,895 plus materials. Students will learn important skills they'll need for work in the legal field, such as understanding legal terminology, ethics, investigation techniques, and preparing legal documents.
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
9 CEUs
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,895 plus materials
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
706-542-3537
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
9 CEUs
intelligent score 95.54
Award
Rankings
#2 Security Degree Hub
#10 Best Value Schools
#12 Value Colleges
School Information
Berkeley, CA
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 14%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
8
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$996
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
510-642-4111
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
8
intelligent score 95.28
Award
Rankings
#4 Security Degree Hub
#10 Value Colleges
#13 Best Value Schools
School Information
Durham, NC
Graduation Rate: 96%
Admission Rate: 6%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Duke University's fully-online, self-paced paralegal certificate program is the best choice for students that require as much flexibility as possible. There are no specific due dates or deadlines for assignments or exams. Students need to complete the coursework in its entirety within one year after starting the program. The online learning center makes it easy for students to find lecture notes, writing labs, video tutorials, quizzes, and mock exams. Since the program is open to students from all over the nation, templates and writing labs are available for all 50 states, so students are able to tailor their learning experience to their locale. Duke also offers access to useful tools like the Lexis Advance and Westlaw Next legal research sites, with video tutorials on how to use them. Online resources are available for up to a year after graduation, allowing students to refresh their skills after completing the program.
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
300-hour course
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$6,995 program tuition
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
919-684-6259
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
300-hour course
intelligent score 94.39
Award
Rankings
#7 Best Value Schools
#11 Value Colleges
School Information
Houston, TX
Graduation Rate: 94%
Admission Rate: 9%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
9.3 CEUs
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$5,050 program cost
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
713-348-4803
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
9.3 CEUs
intelligent score 94.37
Award
Rankings
#3 Value Colleges
School Information
Columbia, SC
Graduation Rate: 75%
Admission Rate: 62%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
The University of South Carolina offers a comprehensive paralegal studies certificate program that can be completed online or in person. The program can be completed in about six months and teaches students essential skills like legal research, analysis, and interviewing witnesses. This program stands out due to the vast array of useful online tools available to students, including access to Westlaw for legal research, phone and email support, online lecture notes, discussion boards, mock quizzes, exercises, and answers to common student questions. The student support website also allows students to interact with their peers and instructors during their studies. For working adults that need to schedule around their other obligations, the online program can be taken during evenings and on weekends. The program costs $4,995, which includes tuition, access to Westlaw, all books, and all materials.
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120 hours
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$5,600 program cost
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
803-777-9444
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
120 hours
intelligent score 93.81
Award
Rankings
#5 Value Colleges
#15 Best Value Schools
School Information
Boston, MA
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 19%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
7 two-week modules
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$3,995 program cost
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
888-700-3966
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
7 two-week modules
intelligent score 93.60
Award
Rankings
#8 Value Colleges
#9 Security Degree Hub
School Information
Seattle, WA
Graduation Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 53%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
University of Washington Professional & Continuing Education offers a number of programs designed to help professionals update their skills or transition into new fields. As part of the university's paralegal studies certificate program, students will gain a solid understanding of the US legal system and learn the skills they need to work as paralegals or in related professions. This includes essential skills like legal research, professional ethics, litigation, and legal writing. The University of Washington is a great choice for students that plan on applying for scholarships as the school offers a unique certificate scholarship program that can cover $3,000 to $8,000 of program costs. Scholarship recipients receive a waiver every quarter that covers at least 80% of registration and course fees for most certificate programs.
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36 CEUs
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$8,100 program cost
accreditation
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-506-1325
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36 CEUs
intelligent score 93.04
Award
Rankings
#7 Value Colleges
School Information
Austin, TX
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 29%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
9.4 CEUs
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$5,295 program tuition
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
512-232-6520
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
9.4 CEUs
intelligent score 92.72
Award
Rankings
#9 Value Colleges
School Information
Lynchburg, VA
Graduation Rate: 36%
Admission Rate: 99%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Liberty University offers an exceptional online paralegal certificate program that prepares students and professionals to grow in their current roles or expand into areas in the legal field. The program requires 18 total credit hours and takes an average of one year to complete. Returning students can transfer up to 75% of the certificate total, and eight start dates throughout the year offer students maximum flexibility. Liberty offers free online textbooks for all its courses, helping make the program more affordable, and military tuition discounts are available for eligible students. During the program, students will take a combination of electives and core courses, including legal research, legal writing, and foundations of law. Liberty University also offers flexible admissions for this program, only requiring students to have a 1.5 or above cumulative GPA for all previous college courses.
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Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
18
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$390
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-424-9595
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
18
intelligent score 92.40
Award
Rankings
School Information
Lowell, MA
Graduation Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
18
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$385
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-480-3190
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
18
intelligent score 91.79
Award
Rankings
School Information
Duluth, MN
Graduation Rate: 34%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
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Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$183
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
218-733-5924
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 90.23
Award
Rankings
School Information
Coral Gables, FL
Graduation Rate: 81%
Admission Rate: 28%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
275 hours
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$6,995 program cost
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
305-284-4000
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
275 hours
intelligent score 90.03
Award
Rankings
School Information
Raymond, MS
Graduation Rate: 29%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-45
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $150
Non-Resident: $275
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
601-857-5261
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30-45
intelligent score 89.36
Award
Rankings
School Information
Saint Paul, MN
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 76%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
20
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$836
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
651-523-2857
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
20
intelligent score 88.84
Award
Rankings
School Information
Villanova, PA
Graduation Rate: 88%
Admission Rate: 25%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
15 courses
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$615 per course
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
610-519-4300
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
15 courses
intelligent score 88.02
Award
Rankings
School Information
Rindge, NH
Graduation Rate: 53%
Admission Rate: 89%
Urbanicity: Rural
School Size: Small
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$400
accreditation
New England Commission of Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-325-1090
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 87.33
Award
Rankings
School Information
Chester, PA
Graduation Rate: 63%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
24
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$499
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
302-477-2780
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
24
intelligent score 85.90
Award
Rankings
School Information
Cincinnati, OH
Graduation Rate: 68%
Admission Rate: 85%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
24
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $291
Non-Resident: $311
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
833-556-8611
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
24
intelligent score 82.81
Award
Rankings
School Information
Auburn, AL
Graduation Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 44%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
925 hours
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$3,999 program tuition
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
334-844-5100
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
925 hours
intelligent score 82.47
Award
Rankings
School Information
Irvine, CA
Graduation Rate: 55%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
24
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$500
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
877-516-4501
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
24
intelligent score 82.19
Award
Rankings
School Information
Kennesaw, GA
Graduation Rate: 49%
Admission Rate: 82%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
1.8 - 2.4 CEUs
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$299 - $399
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
470-578-6765
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
1.8 - 2.4 CEUs
intelligent score 81.55
Award
Rankings
School Information
Denver, CO
Graduation Rate: 15%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
Resident: $393
Non-Resident: $423
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
303-352-6785
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus, Hybrid
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 78.16
Award
Rankings
School Information
Harrisonburg, VA
Graduation Rate: 84%
Admission Rate: 86%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
5 courses
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$3,995 program cost
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
540-568-4253
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
5 courses
intelligent score 77.08
Award
Rankings
School Information
Davis, CA
Graduation Rate: 89%
Admission Rate: 49%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
14
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$499
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
530-757-8777
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
14
intelligent score 76.35
Award
Rankings
School Information
Hampton, VA
Graduation Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 74%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
18
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$300
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
757-224-0280
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
18
intelligent score 76.30
Award
Rankings
School Information
Miami, FL
Graduation Rate: 67%
Admission Rate: 64%
Urbanicity: Suburban
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
615 hours
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$6,900 program tuition
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
305-348-1990
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
615 hours
intelligent score 75.90
Award
Rankings
School Information
Washington, DC
Graduation Rate: 82%
Admission Rate: 50%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
18
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$1,350
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
202-994-2083
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
18
intelligent score 74.00
Award
Rankings
School Information
Glenwood Springs, CO
Graduation Rate: 30%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: Town
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $208
Out-of-State: $530
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
800-621-8559
Delivery Format
Online, On-Campus
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 73.92
Award
Rankings
School Information
Irvine, CA
Graduation Rate: 86%
Admission Rate: 29%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$235 - $288
accreditation
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
949-824-5414
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
30
intelligent score 72.23
Award
Rankings
School Information
New Brunswick, NJ
Graduation Rate: 83%
Admission Rate: 68%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
22.5 CEUs
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$3,195 - $3,315 program tuition
accreditation
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
848-932-7323
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
22.5 CEUs
intelligent score 71.26
Award
Rankings
School Information
Cincinnati, OH
Graduation Rate: 21%
Admission Rate: 100%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Medium
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
In-State: $188
Out-of-State: $377
accreditation
Higher Learning Commission
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
513-861-7700
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
36
intelligent score 70.50
Award
Rankings
School Information
Edinburg, TX
Graduation Rate: 58%
Admission Rate: 94%
Urbanicity: City
School Size: Large
Award
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
84 hours
Department
Estimated Cost per Credit
$2,195 program cost
accreditation
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
more program informationEmail:
[email protected]
Phone:
956-665-2071
Delivery Format
Online
Programs
Required Credits to Graduate
84 hours
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
This list features some of the best online paralegal certificate degree programs at top colleges across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions. Many of the programs are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), which reviews paralegal education programs for quality and industry standards.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation as well as the student resources provided for online students. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of online paralegal certificate degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report among others to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From an Online Paralegal Certificate Program
An online paralegal certificate program prepares students for careers in legal support roles, equipping them with fundamental knowledge of legal principles and the practical skills necessary to assist attorneys. Typically completed in about six months to one year and leading to a certificate rather than a diploma in many cases, these programs vary in length depending on the institution, the type of program, and the student’s pace.
The curriculum covers a range of subjects such as legal research, writing, ethics, civil procedure, and contract law. Students often learn how to draft legal documents, conduct case investigations, and assist in trial preparations.
Unlike some degree programs, paralegal certificate programs generally do not require in-person labs or residencies, making them accessible for working professionals or those with family or other personal commitments. However, some programs may include internship opportunities where students gain hands-on experience in a legal setting.
Prospective students should verify program accreditation, such as from the American Bar Association (ABA) or regional accrediting agencies, to ensure quality education and eligibility for financial aid. Additionally, consider programs that offer career placement services or networking opportunities to facilitate entry into the legal profession.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online paralegal certificate program
- Introduction to Paralegal Studies. Provides an overview of the paralegal profession, including roles and responsibilities, the legal system, and ethics. Students learn about various areas of law and the skills needed to succeed as a paralegal.
- Legal Research and Writing. Teaches students how to conduct legal research using both traditional and online resources. Emphasis is placed on developing strong legal writing skills, including drafting memos, briefs and other legal documents.
- Civil Litigation. Explores the civil litigation process from pre-trial procedures to post-trial motions. The course covers topics such as pleadings, discovery, trial preparation, and the roles of paralegals in assisting attorneys throughout the litigation process.
- Contracts and Commercial Law. Examines the principles of contract law, including the formation, performance, and enforcement of contracts. Students learn to analyze contract clauses, identify legal issues, and understand the paralegal’s role in commercial law.
- Ethics and Professional Responsibility. Focuses on the ethical standards and professional responsibilities of paralegals, covering topics such as client confidentiality, conflicts of interest, and the unauthorized practice of law. Students learn to navigate ethical dilemmas and uphold professional conduct in legal settings.
What Can I Do With an Online Paralegal Certificate?
Completing an online paralegal certificate program often leads to a career as a paralegal or legal assistant. These professionals assist attorneys by managing their caseloads, conducting research, and drafting legal documents. To begin a career as a paralegal, you’ll typically need a paralegal certificate and at least an associate degree.
The skills acquired in a paralegal certificate program can also prepare you for other careers in the legal field. With a bachelor’s degree or a graduate degree, opportunities for advancement arise, including roles as arbiters, mediators, or lawyers. When you pair your paralegal education with experience in a paralegal position, you’ll be a valuable asset to any legal firm or department.
Career outlook
- Paralegal and legal assistant — Assist lawyers in preparing for a case with legal research, document drafting, witness interviews, and testimony preparation.
- Median annual salary: $60,970
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 4%
- New jobs projected: 38,000
- Arbitrator, mediator, and conciliator (with bachelor’s degree) — Negotiate with opposing parties and facilitate discussion to resolve a legal matter that doesn’t result in a lawsuit.
- Median annual salary: $71,540
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 5%
- New jobs projected: 400
- Lawyer (with graduate degree) — Represent clients in criminal or civil legal cases, advise clients on their rights in the court system, and collaborate with paralegals, law clerks, and other lawyers to form the strongest case possible.
- Median annual salary: $145,760
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 8%
- New jobs projected: 39,100
Online Paralegal Certificate Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online paralegal certificate program?
Prospective students typically need to submit an application form, provide transcripts from high school or previous college coursework, and sometimes submit letters of recommendation. Some programs may require a personal statement outlining career goals or relevant experience. It’s important to check specific program requirements as they can vary. Admissions counselors can provide valuable guidance on application deadlines, required documents, and any additional steps needed for admission. They can also offer insights into the program’s curriculum, faculty, and career outcomes, helping applicants make informed decisions about their educational goals.
How much does an online paralegal certificate cost?
The cost of an online paralegal certificate program typically ranges between $4,000 and $20,000. This tuition range covers the core coursework necessary for certification. Public schools are generally cheaper than private institutions, but financial aid can offset the difference in cost for many students. Students should also consider additional costs such as textbooks, technology fees, and any required software. Online programs might offer savings on commuting and accommodation compared to in-person programs, but it’s essential to factor in these extra expenses.
How long does it take to earn an online paralegal certificate?
Earning an online paralegal certificate typically takes 6 to 12 months, depending on the program and the student’s enrollment status. Full-time students may complete the program faster, often within six months, while part-time students may take up to a year or longer. Online programs offer flexibility, allowing students to balance studies with other commitments. However, the length of completion time can vary based on the total number of required credits and the institution’s specific schedule. Some programs may offer accelerated options, while others follow a more traditional academic calendar. It’s essential to consider personal and professional obligations when deciding between full-time and part-time enrollment.
Is a paralegal certificate worth it?
If you’re interested in a legal career, a paralegal certificate is an excellent place to begin. You’ll learn the fundamentals of a legal career, including current policies and best practices, that you can apply in a future career as a paralegal, law assistant, or law clerk. Online paralegal certificate programs are typically less expensive than law degrees, and because they typically only require an associate degree, they can be a more affordable entrance into law.
Paralegal certificates are also worth it when it comes to experience. These professionals develop a detail-oriented understanding of the law, making them essential colleagues for lawyers focused on other aspects of a case. If you’d like to become a lawyer in the future, your education and experience as a paralegal can make you stand out in applications to law programs and future employers.