It’s often said that a two or four-year degree in almost any field in combination with a post-degree certificate in paralegal studies is one of the most marketable credential combinations in the business.
A post-associate’s or post-baccalaureate certificate is the clear option for anyone looking to change careers entirely to become a full-fledged paralegal, and for existing paralegals and other legal support staff who would benefit from a focused course of study that covers everything from legal research and writing, to legal office technology. And with the ability to custom tailor a program by selecting electives in specific functions or areas of law, a quality post-degree certificate can also give current paralegals exactly the education they need to hone their expertise in a particular area relevant to the law practice or legal department they work for.
A post-degree certificate is also the obvious choice for professionals working in virtually any field that intersects with law who are looking to reorient their career and become the go-to legal expert in the office. Few other post-degree training options complement an undergraduate degree in business or healthcare administration, finance, economics, HR, and other fields like a post-degree certificate in paralegal studies. This makes it the go-to option for many mid-career professionals in banking, real estate, HR, office management, and other fields looking for some additional training to expand the breadth of their expertise and make a real impact on the value they’re able to bring to the organizations they work for.
If one of these descriptions fits you, and you’re ready to get serious about researching your post-associate or post-bac options, then you’ve come to the right place.
How We Selected the Top Post-Degree Paralegal Studies Certificate Programs
No one is more discriminating about their education options than professionals who have made the decision to go back to school. You’re going all in to be proactive about changing the trajectory of your career, so you’re not interested in anything short of the best options available for making that happen. You want a program with the best reputation among employers in the area and the best track record for quality outcomes… the best curriculum and opportunities for getting some valuable experience… the best career support services and student community with affiliations that help foster networking and camaraderie…. and the best value so you can feel good knowing that the expense is well worth it.
There is a lot that goes into making a decision about which program in your area hits these points, and we know anyone considering their options can use all the help they can get. We took the time to review more than 200 programs from accredited schools throughout the U.S., giving consideration to everything we feel makes for an outstanding program:
- Well connected to the local legal and business community and able to facilitate valuable internship opportunities
- Experienced faculty of attorneys and paralegals able to draw from years of industry experience
- Dedication to meeting the highest curriculum standards with a program that has been approved by the ABA or through institutional membership with AAfPE
- Strong track record for producing highly employable graduates, with high industry employment numbers among those who have recently completed the program
- Exceptional career guidance services that go above and beyond, including providing continued support for alumni
It is our belief that no single criterion makes or breaks a program. Instead, we feel the best way to isolate the top programs in different parts of the country is to make a total appraisal of what the program offers, and then see how it all stacks up to other similar programs in the area.
There are no shortcuts when it comes to doing a deep dive assessment of all these points for this many programs. It takes an expert understanding of what the industry demands, and lots of time dedicated to the task. We’re glad to be able to save you the trouble by putting in the hours to review each post-degree certificate program offered at accredited schools throughout the U.S. so you don’t have to.
Post-Associate and Post-Bac Paralegal Certificate Programs by State
So here you have it – our pick for the top post-associate and post-bac paralegal certificate programs available in the U.S.
This list features programs that our editorial staff hand selected to present as top recommendations. We believe the many aspects of a program that come together to create an exceptional student experience can’t be reduced to numbers alone, so no formula was used to attempt to score or rank these programs. Instead, they represent our top picks based on a thoughtful review of the things we know mean the most to students. Each one of these programs offers something unique, and all come equally highly recommended. We stand behind the principal of editorial integrity and make these recommendations independently and without compensation.
ALASKA
UAA Justice Center
Anchorage, Alaska
Website
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost per Credit: $241 (resident), $754 (non-resident)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship and Pro Bono Opportunities
- Low, 14:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes with a Required Exit Exam
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
There are plenty of reasons why the University of Alaska Anchorage made our list of the best post-degree paralegal certificate programs in the nation. Complete the Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies here and you’ll be part of a diverse and dynamic university community. With an outstanding student-to-faculty ratio of just 14:1, you better believe you’ll have more opportunities to interact with professors than students almost anywhere else in the country. All this despite the fact that UUA is the largest university in the state. Four campuses and a variety of extension sites throughout Southcentral Alaska make post-secondary study convenient and accessible for many, while the university’s close ties to local government, businesses and nonprofit employers helps connect students and graduates with the Anchorage-area legal community. An internship rounds out this comprehensive program, which consist of 24 credits and about one year of study.
ARIZONA
Paralegal Studies
Phoenix, Arizona
Website
Certificate of Completion in Paralegal Studies (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $86 (Maricopa County resident), $129-$383 (non-resident: out of county, out of state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of Some Online Courses
- Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes by Requiring a ‘C’ or Better in All Courses
- Provides Exceptional Career Services, Which Include the Maricopa CareerLink, a Resource for Jobs, Internships, and Career Information
Phoenix College—the flagship institution of the Maricopa Community Colleges—hits the mark for its outstanding post-degree certificate program, thanks to its ABA approval (the only ABA-approved paralegal program in northern Arizona!) and the option to complete an internship experience. We also love the Paralegal Studies Portfolio Capstone, a chance for students to demonstrate their acquired skills and knowledge through the completion of an electronic portfolio. This program consists of 40 credits of courses that can be completed in a hybrid format for the best in flexibility and convenience. Complete your program here and you’ll have access to a wide array of student services, including the Maricopa CareerLink, a resource for applying for jobs and internships, connecting with employers, and exploring career information.
CALIFORNIA
Legal Studies
Hayward, California
Website
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $209
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Required Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offer the Flexibility of Some Online Courses
- Committed to Educational Excellence as a Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE), the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), and the San Francisco Paralegal Association (SFPA)
- Exceptional Track Record of Graduate Success with a 75% Employment Rate
- Offers Outstanding Career Services: Paralegal Career Counseling, Career Workshops, and Complimentary Student Membership to the San Francisco Paralegal Association
The fact that so many graduates of CSU’s paralegal programs go on to careers in the industry shortly after graduating really speaks to the quality of the program and it’s reputation in the local legal community. But that’s just one of the reasons why California State University – East Bay holds the top spot on our list as the best post-degree paralegal program in California. The University’s Certificate in Paralegal Studies features ABA approval and the flexibility of being able to courses offered at the Hayward and Concord campuses, as well as online. This comprehensive course of study, which builds upon your associate or bachelor’s degree, consists of 11 courses that can be completed in 15 months. This program also received high marks from us for its required internship—the ideal opportunity to put your newly acquired knowledge and skills into practice.
COLORADO
Paralegal Department
Aurora, Colorado
Website
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $208 (resident), $255 (resident, online), $657 (non-resident), $389 (non-resident, online)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of Some Online Courses
- Offers Exceptional Student and Career Assistance Services
The Community College of Aurora doesn’t just offer convenience and affordability for students of the Paralegal Certificate program—this program boasts ABA approval, a required internship, and a world class faculty of experienced paralegals and attorneys. We’re big fans of CCA’s outstanding student and career services, which include an Academic Learning Center, the Fostering Success program (provides both academic and personal support so students can reach their goals), and the Student Success Center (dedicated to an inclusive and authentic academic community). If you’re located in the Aurora area and looking to make a career move and enter the legal field or advance in your current position, CC Aurora’s paralegal certificate program is the obvious choice.
CONNECTICUT
Paralegal Studies Program
West Hartford, Connecticut
Website
Paralegal Certificate Program (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $560
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship and Work in Pro Bono Clinics
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of Evening and Saturday Classes
- Offers Exceptional Career Assistance Services Through the University Career Center and the Large, Active Network of Paralegal Alumni
- The ABA Advisory Board at Maintains a Strong Connection to the Local Legal Community and Promotes Career Readiness and Educational Excellence
The University of Hartford’s Paralegal Certificate Program—the first paralegal education program in Connecticut—is dedicated to the success of its students, as is evident in this comprehensive, 19-credit, ABA-approved program that includes a wide array of electives in areas like healthcare law, estate administration, and environmental law. This post-associate certificate program, which takes nine months to complete, offers you the opportunity to complete an internship and flex your newly acquired skills in a real-world legal environment. You can be sure this program is always current, offering the best in contemporary legal studies, thanks to the ABA Advisory Board at the University, which keeps tracks of changes and trends in the field, the needs of the legal community, and the performance of its graduates once they’re out in the real world.
DELAWARE
Legal Studies Office
Wilmington, Delaware
Website
General Paralegal Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $499
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study through the Delaware Law School
- Offers the Flexibility of Full- or Part-Time Study, Evening and Some Online Courses, as well as the One Summer Paralegal Certificate Option (Completed in 15 Weeks)
- Offers Exceptional Career Counseling Services to Students and Alumni Through the Career Development Center
Law school resources, ABA approval, and a variety of possible concentrations make Widener University Delaware Law School’s General Paralegal Certificate a sure bet for the aspiring or practicing paralegal looking for a top quality program. This 24-credit program, located on the Delaware Law campus, gives students access to a range of professional services, including the Delaware Law Library, while the Career Development Center, staffed with licensed attorneys, provides students with services related to career development, including writing cover letters, building resumes, networking, and interviewing. We love this program’s flexible curriculum options, which include the opportunity to specialize in corporate law, criminal law, litigation, health law, estate administration law, or intellectual property law.
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
College of Professional Studies
Washington, D.C.
Website
Paralegal Studies Graduate Certificate (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $860 (on-campus), $1,060 (online)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Offers the Flexibility of an Online Option
- Offers Exceptional Career Counseling Services to Students and Alumni Through the Career Services Office
- Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Master’s Degree in Paralegal Studies
George Washington University provides everything you need to supplement your bachelor’s degree and get your paralegal career off the ground – or take it to the next level. The Paralegal Studies Graduate Certificate is 18 credits of comprehensive study designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree and is largely geared toward working professionals and other nontraditional students. In addition to a rigorous course of study in contemporary legal issues, the Graduate Certificate can be applied toward the University’s master’s degree in paralegal studies. Complete your program here and you can study at the Graduate Education Center in Alexandria, Virginia, the Foggy Bottom campus in Washington, D.C., or fully online. We also love GW’s career services office, staffed with seasoned career service advisors who offers job interview and career preparation services to both student and alumni.
FLORIDA
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Bradenton, Florida
Website
Advanced Technical Certificate Paralegal/Legal Assisting (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $102 (in-state), $386 (out-of-state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Offers the Flexibility of a Hybrid Option
- Committed to Educational Excellence as a Voting Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
- Provides a Path to National Certification: National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal (CP) Exam Review Included in the Curriculum
- Offers Exceptional Career Counseling Services to Students and Alumni Through the Career Resource Center
State College of Florida knows a thing or two about producing the most competent paralegals in the field while still being able to offer a very affordable tuition. It’s a Voting Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education, and its Advanced Technical Certificate offers both on-campus and online courses, and the option of being able to complete an internship. Plus, the 25-credit certificate program is led by world class instructors who have years of experience in the field of law working as attorneys and paralegals. We also love this program because it’s just one of a few to offer NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) Examination Review course as part of the standard curriculum, something that is extremely valuable to any upwardly mobile paralegal. This program has it all and offers an exceptional value for the price.
GEORGIA
Department of Social Sciences
Morrow, Georgia
Website
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $165 (in-state), $601 (out-of-state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes by Requiring a ‘C’ or Better in All Courses
- Offers the Flexibility of Online, Hybrid, and Day and Evening Courses
- Committed to Educational Excellence as a Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE), the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA), the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), and the Georgia Association of Paralegals (GAP)
- Offers Exceptional Career Counseling Services Through the Office of Career Services and Pre-Law Advising Services
The 30-hour, ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate program through Clayton State University is ideal for aspiring paralegals in the area looking to develop the knowledge they need to break into the field, and current legal support professionals with an eye out for opportunities to further develop their expertise and advance within the profession. We love this program’s flexibility, with classes offered in the day and in the evenings, as well and through online/hybrid course delivery platforms. CSU clearly put quality first when designing and refining this program. And nowhere is this more evident than in the fact that the University’s Advisory Board, comprised of judges, attorneys, paralegals, and other community leaders, provides program administrators with input on curriculum development to ensure it always meets the highest standards. The optional internship experience available through this program provides students with valuable, real-world experience in the legal field and an opportunity to be introduced to members of the local legal community. CSU offers something really unique. Few schools are this well connected to their local legal community or show this much commitment to educational excellence.
HAWAII
Legal Education
Honolulu, Hawaii
Website
Certificate of Achievement – Paralegal (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $126 (resident), $340 (non-resident)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Cooperative Paralegal Education Experience
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers Exceptional Career Counseling Services to Students and Alumni Through the Employment Prep Center
- Offers the Flexibility of a Hybrid Curriculum
There’s plenty to love about Kapiolani Community College’s Certificate of Achievement – Paralegal. For starters, it provides bachelor-prepared students with a rigorous course of study that has achieved the ABA’s esteemed seal of approval. In addition to a comprehensive course of education that really focuses on the kind of practical knowledge that leads to career readiness by covering Hawaiian legal system, law office management, legal interviewing, and litigation, among others, this certificate program culminates in a cooperative paralegal education experience—an opportunity to integrate classroom learning with supervised practical experiences. The hybrid course delivery of this program offers the best in flexibility, while the Kapiolani CC’s Employment Prep Center provides both students and alumni with outstanding career preparation and employment services. Kapiolani CC knows that a paralegal education is all about being a competitive job candidate who’s ready to hit the ground running on day one.
ILLINOIS
Institute for Paralegal Studies
Chicago, Illinois
Website
Litigation Practice Certificate, Corporate Practice Certificate, Litigation and Corporate Practice Certificate, Customized Certified (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $670
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Committed to Educational Excellence an Active Participant in the Legal Community and Member of the Illinois Paralegal Association, the National Federation of Paralegal Associations, the International Practice Management Association, the Association of Legal Administrators, and the American Association for Paralegal Education.
- Diverse Elective Options Include Intellectual Property, Immigration Law, and Environmental Law
- Contemporary Curriculum Emphasizes Technological Skills and the Use of Online Resources
Loyola University Chicago doesn’t just offer one post-degree paralegal certificate—it offers four, allowing students to complete a course of study in the area of law and work setting that best aligns with their current employment situation or professional goals. These ABA-approved post-bac certificate programs are designed to produce paralegals who are able to deftly handle the rigors of the fast-paced legal environment, thanks to a comprehensive core that emphasizes technological skills and the extensive use of online resources. The diverse electives available here are highly relevant to contemporary legal issues, with such options as intellectual property, immigration law, and environment law, among others.
INDIANA
Social and Behavioral Sciences Department
Saint Mary of the Woods, Indiana
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $496
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Legal Practicum
- Offers the Flexibility of a Fully Online Program
- Committed to Academic Excellence as an Institutional Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) Since 1989
- Outstanding Student Services Include Online Academic Support and Career Services Specifically Tailored to Student Goals
- Superb Track Record of Graduate Success—More than 90% of Graduates Land a Job Upon Graduation
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods’ Paralegal Studies Certificate provides the bachelor’s-prepared student with the training and education needed to break into the field or advance and take their current paralegal career to new heights. The curriculum in this program couldn’t be more relevant to current legal issues, with a focus on law as it relates to politics, society, and history. The online delivery provides students with the flexibility they need to fit a world class education into their schedules while juggling family and professional obligations. This program includes plenty of online academic support and career services and still manages to include a required legal practicum that provides valuable, real-world experience. Plus, it’s backed by an outstanding record of student success. In fact, more than 90 percent of graduates here land a job right after graduation.
IOWA
College of Social and Behavioral Sciences
Davenport, Iowa
Website
Paralegal Postbaccalaureate Certificate
Estimated Cost per Credit: $371
- Offers the Flexibility of 100% Online Delivery, Complete with Live Seminars, Discussion Boards, and One-on-One Instructor Feedback
- Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study Through the Concord Law School
- World Class Faculty Comprised of Real-World Practitioners of Law
Purdue Global’s Pathway to Paralegal Postbaccalaureate Certificate is all about providing students with the practical skills they need to gain a competitive edge in the legal world. Not only will you learn the ins and outs of legal research and and writing within this certificate program, you’ll gain valuable training in effective communication strategies—a must for any paralegal who wants to be a real contributor while working alongside a team of attorneys. Through a course of study that’s completed entirely online, students here enjoy a dynamic learning experience, complete with live seminars, discussion boards, and one-on-one instructor feedback. Plus, all instructors here have real-world experience as legal practitioners in a variety of settings.
KANSAS
Legal Studies
Overland Park, Kansas
Website
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $93 (Johnson County residents), $110 (other Kansas counties), $135 (metro-rate), $220 (out-of-state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Optional Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of On-Campus, Online, and Hybrid Courses
- Outstanding Student Services Include a Career Development Center for Students and Alumni
- Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes by Requiring a ‘C’ or Better in All Law Courses
- Low Student to Faculty Ratio Demonstrates a Commitment to a Personalized Education Experience
Johnson County Community College understands the needs of today’s paralegal students, which is why its ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate program, designed for the associate-prepared student, features a rock-bottom tuition rate, and offers a variety of on-campus, online, and hybrid courses to make it more accessible to working students. Plus, small class sizes (ranging from 25-30 per class) result in plenty of engaging student and faculty interactions, while an optional internship experience gives students the opportunity to gain real-world experience in a variety of legal settings. We also love Johnson County CC’s Career Development Center, which is staffed with trained counselors who are there to help both students and alumni make well-informed, strategic decisions about their education and career. Just some of the services offered include internship assistance, mock interviews, and resume critiques.
KENTUCKY
Paralegal Program
Richmond, Kentucky
Website
Paralegal Science Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Estimated Cost per Credit: $409
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Required 280-Hour Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of Some Online Courses
- Superb Track Record of Graduate Success—70% of All Students Obtain Jobs Before Graduation, and 90% Obtain a Position Within Three Months of Graduation.
- Outstanding Faculty of Practicing Attorneys, Judges, and Elected Officials, All of Whom Hold JD Degrees
- Outstanding Student Support and Career Services Include Job Placement Assistance for All Graduates
Eastern Kentucky University’s Paralegal Science Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program is the first choice for any Kentucky paralegal student looking for a program that maintains the highest standards. ABA approval ensures this program provides students with the most relevant and contemporary paralegal education, while the curriculum also covers the required basics along with important business skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. This program also requires a 280-hour paralegal internship that helps students make important connections in the local legal community while ensuring knowledge and practical skills are razor sharp by the time they graduate. Plus, some of the courses are offered online for the best in flexibility and convenience. But that’s not all—all members of the faculty hold JD degrees, and all are practicing attorneys, judges, and elected officials. The proof of this program’s success is in the numbers—70% of all students obtain jobs before graduation, and 90% obtain a position within three months of graduation. This 30-credit program can be completed in 18 months.
LOUISIANA
Tulane School of Professional Advancement
New Orleans, Louisiana
Website
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost per Credit: $406
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status (Held Since the 1980s – Oldest ABA-Approved Program in the Region)
- Outstanding Military Support — Military Friendly School Silver Award Recipient
- Outstanding Faculty of Practicing Attorneys and Paralegals
Tulane University’s Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies will get you where you want to be, whether that’s entering the workforce as a competent paralegal or continuing on to law school. This program features a focused course of study that emphasizes legal topics along with core paralegal knowledge and skills in research and legal writing, all in just 27 credits (9 classes). Thanks to the streamlined nature of this program, most students can complete it in about a year. There’s plenty to love about this program, including its esteemed faculty of practicing attorneys and paralegals and its 100-hour optional internship, both of which give students the benefit of valuable, real-world experience. Earn your paralegal educational credentials here and you can be sure you’re getting a world class educational experience at a school with a stellar and longstanding reputation for excellence.
MAINE
Justice Studies
Augusta, Maine
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $228 (Maine residents), $551 (out-of-state), $365 (New England Board of Higher Education, New England Regional Student Program)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Practicum
- Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes by Requiring a ‘C’ or Better in All Courses
- Offer Exceptional Career Services for Active Duty Military and Veterans — Recognized as a Top Military-Friendly School by a Number of Organizations
- Offers Outstanding Career Services Through UMA Career Connections
As the third largest public university in Maine, the University of Maine (at Augusta) offers the most reputable paralegal program in the state, providing ssociate-prepared students with a comprehensive post-degree education option consisting of 18 credit hours covering the important basics like legal research, along with contemporary legal topics in specialized areas of law like real estate transfer procedures, litigation, and estate administration. Plus, a course in professional responsibility and an optional paralegal practicum designed to prepare students with real-world experience are included to build your confidence and character as a legal support professional. We also love the UMA Career Connections, which offers career advising services designed to help students focus on reaching their career goals. UMA is a school that takes career readiness very seriously. Assistance with choosing a major, exploring job opportunities, and finding a job are just some of the services offered here.
MARYLAND
School of Business and Law, Legal Studies Institute
Arnold, Maryland
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Business, Paralegal Studies Certificate – General Practice, Paralegal Studies Certificate – General Practice Accelerated, Paralegal Studies Certificate – Litigation (all post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $110 (Anne Arundel County residents), $212 (other Maryland residents), $374 (non-residents)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Outstanding Faculty of Practicing Attorneys, Judges, and Paralegals
- Flexible Program Offered Full- or Part-Time, and Courses Offered in the Evening and on Weekends
- Immersive Learning and Enrichment Opportunities Include an Onsite Law Library, a Legal Research and Writing Course Taught at the State Law Library Paralegal Forum, Forum on the Judiciary, Mock Trials, and the Legal Studies Student Club
If you want to complete a certificate program that’s tailored to your professional goals, then Anne Arundel Community College should be at the top of your list. This college offers post-associate paralegal certificate programs (31 credit hours) in general paralegal studies, business, and litigation. As just one of four colleges in Maryland to earn ABA approval, students can feel confident knowing they’re receiving the most contemporary instruction on current legal issues, along with all the necessary fundamentals of the paralegal profession. A superb faculty of practicing judges, paralegals, and other experts in the field and a superb internship program rounds out this course of study. Students here enjoy the school’s onsite law library, the Legal Research and Writing course taught at the State Law Library, and flexible coursework delivery options, with classes offered in the day, evening, and on weekends. You can also choose to enroll on a full- or part-time basis, allowing you to either complete it at a normal pace or schedule coursework around work and family life. You can even elect to complete the program at an accelerated pace and have it all wrapped up in just two semesters.
MASSACHUSETTS
Center for Professional Education
Boston, Massachusetts
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate Program (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Total Cost of Program: $3,495
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Outstanding Faculty of Practicing Attorneys
- Flexible Program Offered in Blended Format, Entirely Online, or as an Accelerated Summer Program
- Contemporary Program Design Focuses on Writing, Research and Technology
- Outstanding Network of Employers Regularly Seek Paralegal Graduates
Boston University has a long history of providing students with comprehensive paralegal education that is second to none. For more than 20 years, Boston U has produced graduates with the essential skills for success in the profession. The Paralegal Studies Certificate Program, designed for students who already hold a bachelor’s degree, emphasizes writing, research, and technology. This course of study, which takes just 14 weeks to complete, covers relevant and contemporary topics in the law along with the fundamentals required to become a valued paralegal, including real estate law, legal research, legal writing and reasoning, and business law, among others. We love this program for its outstanding faculty of experienced instructors, all of whom are practicing attorneys, as well as its flexible course delivery options, available in both a blended classroom format and entirely online. This program is also offered as an accelerated summer course that meets in the classroom for 14 days each June.
MICHIGAN
Paralegal Studies
Livonia, Michigan
Website
Paralegal Studies Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Estimated Cost per Credit: $670
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Outstanding Faculty of Practicing Attorneys and Paralegals
- Flexible Program Offered in a Hybrid Format
- Dynamic Paralegal Alumni Network of More Than 2,000
- Exceptional Track Record of Graduate Success with a 95% Employment Rate
Madonna University can take you from the classroom to the legal office in just a year with their Paralegal Studies Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program. But this certificate program has a lot more to offer: ABA approval, a flexible course schedule that includes both on-campus and online courses, and a 95 percent employment rate among graduates. Complete this post-baccalaureate program and you’ll enjoy courses taught by practicing paralegals and attorneys who have earned their stripes through years of experience. Plus, you’ll be joining the distinguished ranks of the 2,000 alumni who have passed through the halls of Madonna U and gone on to contribute their skills as valued paralegals throughout metropolitan Detroit and beyond. This University has such a strong reputation in the area’s legal community, local employers place them in a class all their own and refer to graduates of this program as “Madonna Paralegals.” We also love this school’s Career Development Office, which provides assistance to students, graduates, and alumni.
MINNESOTA
Legal Studies
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Website
Paralegal Certificate Program (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $790
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship/Practicum
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of Day and Evening Courses
- Promotes Networking and Professional Visibility by Encouraging Students to Join the Hamline University Paralegal Society and LEX, a National Paralegal Honor Society
- Contemporary and Relevant Curriculum Covers Constitutional Law, Beginning Mock Trial, Business Taxation, and Constitutional Issues in Criminal Procedure, Among Others
If you want to return to school to further develop your skills, Hamline University has you covered with their Paralegal Certificate Program, designed for students who’ve already earned a bachelor’s degree. This certificate program has everything you need to succeed, and everything you need to know it offers the highest quality education around: ABA approval, a long history of success (it’s been in existence since 1984), a required, 150-hour legal studies practicum, and a flexible curriculum that allows you to take classes in the day or the evening to suit your professional and personal obligations. We are big fans of the program’s contemporary coursework that includes a variety of electives like American Constitutional Law, Beginning Mock Trial, Business Taxation, and Constitutional Issues in Criminal Procedure, among others. In addition to the internship experience, students here also have the opportunity to increase their professional visibility through participation in the Hamline University Paralegal Society and LEX, a national paralegal honor society. This offers something beyond mere networking opportunities – it’s a real connection to the local legal community.
MISSISSIPPI
Department of History and Political Science
Clinton, Mississippi
Website
Post-Baccalaureate Paralegal Studies Certificate
Estimated Cost per Credit: $567
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- The Majority of Courses Can Be Taken Online, Offering Unrivaled Flexibility while Meeting ABA Requirements for On-campus Paralegal Courses
- Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes by Requiring a ‘C’ or Better in All Courses
- Provides Exceptional Career Services, Including Career Coaching, Academic Major Coaching, and On-Campus Interviews Through the Office of Career Services
- Contemporary and Relevant Curriculum Includes Courses in Mechanics of Property Transactions, Equity Practice, and Legal Research and Bibliography, Among Others
Mississippi College’s 27-hour Post-Baccalaureate Paralegal Studies Certificate is where aspiring paralegals go to become leaders and change makers. We love this program for offering a contemporary curriculum, while still focusing on developing skills and knowledge fundamental to the paralegal profession. This top tier program even offers the flexibility of online coursework delivery, which allows students to complete all but 15 hours of the program from home. Plus, there’s plenty of on-campus evening courses to accommodate working professionals. Students here can round out their certificate program with an internship while taking advantage of the college’s outstanding student support and career guidance services through the Office of Career Services. Just some of the services offered here include academic major coaching, career coaching, interview coaching, on-campus interviews, career fairs and job fairs.
MISSOURI
Department of Criminal Justice, Legal Studies & Social Work
St. Joseph, Missouri
Website
Certificate Legal Assistant (post-associate if the associate degree was in paralegal studies/paralegal; otherwise, post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $204 (in-state), $421 (out-of-state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Promotes Networking by Encouraging Students to Join the Legal Studies Association
- Offers LSAT Prep Course for Students Interested in Law School
Missouri Western State University’s 33-credit Certificate Legal Assistant is your ticket to a career as a paralegal or further study in law if you have an associate degree in paralegal studies or a bachelor’s degree in another discipline. ABA approval (the only public institution in Missouri to hold this distinction!) and a contemporary curriculum that includes study in legal research, interviewing, investigation, legal drafting, the preparation of evidence and witnesses for trial, and assisting in the trial of a lawsuit are the hallmarks of this comprehensive course of study. Planning to transition from school to the paralegal profession? Consider completing an internship… Is law school on your mind? Take the LSAT Prep Course. Plus, as a student at MWSU and you’ll have access to valuable networking opportunities through the Legal Studies Association, an organization that strives to promote interest in the law for the students of Missouri Western.
NEBRASKA
Legal Studies
Omaha, Nebraska
Website
Paralegal Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Estimated Cost per Credit: $237 (in-state), $802 (out-of-state), $362 (Good Neighbor), $340 (Western Undergraduate Exchange states)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of Weekend Courses
- Exceptional Track Record of Graduate Success with a 100% Employment Rate Six Months After Graduation
- Provides Exceptional Career Services That Include Resume writing, Mock Interviewing, Career Assessments, Career Counseling, and More
There’s no denying the impressive statistics speaking to the success graduates of the College of St. Mary’s Paralegal Post-Baccalaureate Certificate program experience when entering the workforce: Historically, 100 percent of the program’s graduates were employed in the field within six months. This ABA-approved program features a foundation in the liberal arts, along with a law concentration. We love the flexible delivery method of this program, with classes held every other weekend, something that ensures your education will never interfere with your professional obligations. Consisting of 29 hours of coursework and one year of full-time study, this certificate program also features a paralegal internship, which includes a work experience and online discussion boards and assignments. We also love this school’s outstanding student and career services, which include CSMAdvantage, designed for first-year students to ensure a successful start to their academic experience, the Achievement Center, which offers subject-matter tutoring, testing, and writing assistance, and the Career Services Department, which offers everything from resume writing to mock interviewing to career assessments and counseling.
NEVADA
Department of Business Administration
Las Vegas, Nevada
Website
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $95-$155 (in-state), $104-$171 (non-resident)
- Offers the Flexibility of Day, Evening, Weekend, and Online Courses
- Optional Internship Opportunities
- Dedicated to Student Success Through Small Class Sizes and Membership in the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
- Outstanding Faculty of Practicing Attorneys
- Superb Career Services Include Job Placement Assistance
Why complete a paralegal certificate program at the College of Southern Nevada? Perhaps the better question is: Why would you go anywhere else? This 32-credit course of study, which takes one year to complete, has everything going for it, including a flexible curriculum (day, evening, weekend, and online courses available), internship opportunities and job placement assistance, small class sizes for a personalized learning experience, and a faculty of experience attorneys. This comprehensive program for the associate-prepared student, which has a strong track record of producing competent paralegals for more than 30 years and a stellar reputation in the legal community, is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education. This means you can feel confident knowing you are receiving the highest quality and most contemporary education in paralegal studies available.
NEW HAMPSHIRE
Justice/Legal Studies Program
Concord, New Hampshire
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $210 (NH resident), $210 (veterans), $315 (New England Regional Student Program), $478 (out-of-state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Optional Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers Discounted Tuition Rates for Veterans and Students of the New England Regional Student Program
- Provides Exceptional Career Services That Include Help with Career and Educational Decisions and Job Searches
- Offers the Flexibility of Evening Courses
New Hampshire’s Technical Institute’s Paralegal Studies Certificate provides aspiring paralegals with everything they need for success in the legal field. This ABA-approved course of study features a curriculum focused on the legal system, the role of paralegals in law offices, government agencies and corporate legal departments, the ethical rules governing lawyers and paralegals, and the operation of a law office. Offered in the evenings, the 22-25-credit Paralegal Studies Certificate is designed specifically for the working professional and includes an optional internship that allows students to gain valuable, on-the-job experience while making industry connections that are just as valuable. We are also big fans of NHTI’s Career Resources, which provide students with assistance when choosing a major, deciding on the course of their career, or seeking employment opportunities.
NEW JERSEY
Department of Justice Studies
Montclair, New Jersey
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate Program (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $693 (in-state), $1,000 (out-of-state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of Online, Hybrid, and Evening Courses
- Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes by Requiring a 2.75 GPA or Better in All Courses
- Boasts a 17:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio for the Best in Personalized Education
- Provides Exceptional Career Services Through the Center for Career Services & Cooperative Education
Montclair State University’s Department of Justice Studies offers a Paralegal Studies Certificate for students who’ve already earned a bachelor’s degree and are interested in a course of study that will lead to an exciting career in the legal field. We love this program’s exceptional student-to-faculty ratio of just 17:1, its comprehensive curriculum that helps students develop their practical and analytical skills, and its ABA-approved curriculum—the only state school in New Jersey to hold this distinction! Plus, for the best in flexibility and convenience, this hybrid program offers many of the classes online, while the summer sessions include both day and evening classes. Complete this 21-credit-hour program with a required minimum 2.75 GPA and you’ll be armed with the knowledge and skills needed to serve as a competent and qualified paralegal in a variety of legal environments.
NEW MEXICO
Career Training
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Website
Paralegal Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Estimated Cost of Program: $2,495
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Offers the Flexibility of an Accelerated Program with a Hybrid Course Delivery That Can be Completed in Just Eight Weeks
- Program is Offered Five Times a Year
- UNM’s Exceptional Career Services, Including Career Fairs, Career Resource Lab, Career Advisement, On-Campus Recruiting, and More
- Graduates of the Program are Eligible for Membership with the State Bar of New Mexico Paralegal Division
The Paralegal Post-Baccalaureate Certificate through the University of New Mexico offers the best in accelerated learning for the aspiring paralegal. Learn about the most relevant areas of law in the context of modern legal issues while developing the knowledge and skills fundamental to the paralegal profession. You’ll also participate in plenty of hands-on projects that include networking and connecting with the legal community—all this packed into an eight-week program! This certificate course covers topics such as civil procedure, criminal procedure, evidence, interviewing, ethics, discovery, and more. It’s offered five times a year, with an internship rounding out all programs. We love the hybrid course delivery, which requires meeting in-person for 48 hours and completing the other 48 hours through an online course management system. Plus, graduates of this program are eligible for membership with the State Bar of New Mexico Paralegal Division.
NEW YORK
Department of Law/Criminal Justice
Rochester, New York
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-baccalaureate or post-associate with 18 credits in liberal arts courses and significant work experience)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $179 (in-state), $358 (out-of-state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Required Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Relevant and Contemporary Curriculum was Developed in Partnership with the Monroe County Bar Association and the Paralegal Association of Rochester
- Offers the Flexibility of Evening and Saturday Courses
- Provides Exceptional Career Services
Preparing legal documents…researching case law…investigating facts…working effectively with attorneys and clients. The Monroe Community College of SUNY’s Paralegal Studies Certificate is where aspiring paralegals in Upstate go for a comprehensive education and real career preparation for a profession in the legal field! In fact, the curriculum of this program, created in partnership with the Monroe County Bar Association and the Paralegal Association of Rochester, holds esteemed ABA approval—a sign of excellence in paralegal programs. But there’s plenty more to love about this program. For example, working professionals will be able to juggle both their educational and professional obligations, thanks to evening and Saturday morning courses at the Downtown Campus. The Paralegal Studies Certificate is completed in four semesters, and it includes a required internship experience.
NORTH CAROLINA
Continuing Studies
Durham, North Carolina
Website
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-associate) and Paralegal Specialist Certificates (post-associate or degree/certificate in paralegal studies)
Estimated Cost of Certificate in Paralegal Studies: $5,395 (on-campus), $6,995 (on-line)
Estimated Cost of Paralegal Specialist Certificate ($2,395)
- Program is North Carolina Bar Qualified
- Offers the Flexibility of Day, Evening, and Online Courses and a Summer Intensive Program
- Outstanding Faculty of Practicing Attorneys
- Paralegal Specialist Certificates Offered in 22 Areas, including Contract Law, Criminal Law, Family Law, Entertainment Law, Sports Law, and Real Estate Law
- One-Day Employment Strategies Workshop Included in the On-Campus Program
Looking for a school that offers flexible certificate programs for both basic and advanced study? Look no further than Duke University. Since 2003, Duke University’s Office of Continuing Studies has offered the Certificate in Paralegal Studies and the Paralegal Specialist Certificates. The Certificate in Paralegal Studies, which is completed on Duke’s campus in Durham, is North Carolina Bar Qualified and taught by an esteemed faculty of practicing attorneys. This program is ideal for the working student, as it is offered as a traditional, five-month course of study that meets in the evenings and on occasional Saturdays. This program is also offered as a Summer Intensive program, which is completed in a daytime/accelerated format, thereby allowing students to complete the program in just seven weeks. But that’s not all– Duke also offers this program in a self-paced, entirely online format, making it accessible to anyone in the world. Duke also makes it easy to continue your studies by completing one or more of the 22 Paralegal Specialist programs, all of which are offered completely online and can be completed in just six months. To qualify for one of the specialist programs, you must hold a degree or certificate in paralegal studies or a bachelor’s or associate degree in any field, along with at least three years of experience working as a paralegal. Just some of the Paralegal Specialist programs offered through Duke include Contract Law, Criminal Law, Family Law, Entertainment Law, Sports Law, and Real Estate Law.
NORTH DAKOTA
Legal Studies Department
Belcourt, North Dakota
Website
Certificate in Tribal Advocacy/Paralegal (post-associate)
As of April 2018, Turtle Mountain Community College is no longer offering the Certificate in Tribal Advocacy/Paralegal program. We will update this resource if the status of the program changes.
Estimated Cost per Credit: $60
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Offers the Flexibility of Online Courses with Some Face-to-Face Instruction
- Committed to Issues of Justice for Indigenous People Through a Tribal Advocacy-Focused Curriculum and the Development of the Mountain Community College Tribal Justice Center
- Program Provides a Strong Foundation for Students Interested in Law School
- Graduates of the Program Can Apply for Licensure to Practice in the Turtle Mountain Tribal Court System and Other Court Systems
The 12-month Certificate in Tribal Advocacy/Paralegal not only stands as a unique example of a program with a focus on legal issues affecting indigenous populations, it’s also the picture of convenience for the aspiring paralegal with an associate’s degree. Students here can complete this program primarily online, with some face-to-face instruction. Turtle Mountain Community College’s program provides an extensive education in tribal law—a vital component of study for paralegals practicing in North Dakota. Complete the certificate program here with its 120-hour internship, and you can apply for licensure to practice in the Turtle Mountain Tribal court system, along with other court systems. Plus, this certificate can also provide a solid foundation for students interested in attending law school. Students here also gain valuable experience through the Turtle Mountain Community College Tribal Justice Center, which focuses on issues of justice for Indigenous Peoples. The Legal Studies Department is an Indian Law Education Program that was designed to strengthen legal justice curricula at the tribal college level and also increase the number of tribal members who are knowledgeable about Indian law.
OHIO
Columbus, Ohio
Website
Paralegal Program (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $396
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study through Capital University Law School
- Program Includes a Professional Development Practicum
- Offers the Flexibility of Evening Courses and a Summer Intensive Program
- Offers Exceptional Opportunities Through the Law School, Which Include a Full-Service Law Library and the Opportunity to Participate in Programs, Seminars, Hearings, and Other Events Provided Throughout the Year
Capital University Law School is the setting of the esteemed post-baccalaureate Paralegal Program, where bachelor’s-prepared students come for a quality paralegal education. This ABA-approved course of study includes a foundation in the legal field while also providing aspiring paralegals with instruction aimed at the practical skills of research and writing, case management, legal team collaboration, and more. Capital University understands that post-baccalaureate students often need a flexible course of delivery, which is why they offer both evening classes, completed in one year, and a summer intensive program, which allows students to complete the programs 27 credit hours in just 14 weeks. We also love the professional development practicum of this program, which allows students to attend one-on-one counseling appointments to discuss their career and professional development needs. The Paralegal Program enjoys a unique locale at the Capital University Law School, which means plenty of opportunities for collaboration, both in and outside of the classroom, a full-service law library, and the opportunity to participate in programs, seminars, hearings, and other events provided by the Law School throughout the year.
OKLAHOMA
Division of Lifelong Learning
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Website
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-associate)
Estimated Program Cost: $5,950
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Offers the Flexibility of a Day or Evening Program Format
- Committed to Educational Excellence: Works with the Local Legal Community to Line Up Internships and Employ Top Professionals in the Field
- Offers Outstanding Career Services, Including Access to Golden OpporTUnities, a Listing of Internships and Job Openings
As the only ABA-approve paralegal program in the Tulsa area since 1999, the Certificate in Paralegal Studies at the University of Tulsa is likely already on your radar. But there are plenty more reasons to love this program. For starters, the university works closely with the local legal community, employing top professionals as instructors and offering students the best in internship experiences through local law firms, district courts, nonprofits and corporate legal departments. Plus, because it is designed to accommodate the working professional, this program offers students the option of completing the coursework in a day format (Monday through Friday over the course of 8 months) or in an evening format (mainly Tuesday and Thursday evenings over the course of 15 months). Complete your program here and you’ll have access to the university’s outstanding student and career services, which include assistance with future graduate studies, career options, internships, and more. Plus, all students here have access to Golden OpporTUnities, a listing of internships and jobs available in the area.
OREGON
Portland, Oregon
Website
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $104 (resident), $236 (non-resident – includes all states that do not border Oregon)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Cooperative Education Experience
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Committed to Educational Excellence: Program Advisory Council Maintains a Rigorous and Contemporary Curriculum
- Well Connected to the Local Legal Community, Maintaining Relationships with Local Law Firms and Corporations to Ensure the Best in Networking and Job Opportunities
- Immersive Learning and Enrichment Opportunities Include an Onsite Law Library and a Student-Run Paralegal Club
- Outstanding Faculty of Practicing Attorneys and Paralegals
Portland CC’s ABA-approved, 45-credit Paralegal Certificate program, designed for the associate-prepared student, is a dynamic course of study that is constantly updated to reflect the contemporary legal environment, thanks to the diligent work of the program’s Advisory Council. Plus, the program maintains links with local law firms and corporations to ensure students have the best opportunities available to them for internships, networking and job openings. The Paralegal Certificate program features a broad-based curriculum that includes specialized training in areas like interview techniques, investigation, and legal research and writing, along with a wide selection of elective courses and a faculty with more than 30 years of experience practicing in the legal field. We also love the Career Services department, which includes counseling in career development, and the student-run Paralegal Club, which provides students with social and academic opportunities. A cooperative education experience rounds out this comprehensive course of study and provides students with valuable, hands-on experience at approved job sites.
PENNSYLVANIA
Paralegal Institute
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Website
General Paralegal Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $789
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status (One of Just Three Programs in the Country Administered by a School of Law to Hold ABA Approval)
- Outstanding Faculty Made up of Practicing Attorneys and Paralegals
- Exceptional Access to Case Law and Legal Literature with Two Law Libraries
- Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study Through the Duquesne University Law School
- Offers the Flexibility of an Evening or Summer Intensive Program
- Includes a Variety of Scholarship Opportunities for Aspiring and Current Students
Duquesne University Law School’s General Paralegal Certificate hits the marks as the premier paralegal program in Pennsylvania for a number of reasons: It’s one of just three programs in the country to be approved by the ABA and administered by a school of law…It’s offered in four terms throughout the year as a part-time evening or full-time summer intensive program…And it has an alumni network of more than 2,000 practicing paralegals. Students here have access to two law libraries, a faculty of practicing lawyers and paralegals, and a number of scholarship opportunities, including the Paralegal Institute’s own Genevieve A. Mealy Scholarship. Plus, this program also features an internship experience, an opportunity for students to gain real-world experience working alongside attorneys and experienced legal support staff in a legal environment.
RHODE ISLAND
School of Continuing Studies
Bristol, Rhode Island
Website
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost per Credit: $573, $250 (military tuition rate)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Discounted Tuition for Members of the Military
- Contemporary Curriculum Focused on the Development of Critical Thought, Analytic Reasoning, Scholarly Writing and Practice-Oriented Skills
- Offers Outstanding Student Support and Career Services Through the Center for Student Academic Success and the Center for Career and Professional Development
A focused, contemporary course of study is the hallmark of Roger Williams University’s Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies. This program is focused on the development of critical thought, analytic reasoning, scholarly writing, and practice-oriented skills, thereby preparing students to take on paralegal jobs in a variety of dynamic legal environments. Graduates of this program not only enter the job market with a deep understanding of paralegal fundamentals and the legal environment, they are also armed with the technology skills that are now so vital in this profession. We are big fans of this program for its ABA approval, its primarily online course delivery, and its faculty of experienced legal professionals. We also love the School of Continuing Studies’ Center for Student Academic Success and Center for Career and Professional Development, which foster academic success and provide individual career counseling, resume and cover letter development, and job search assistance.
SOUTH CAROLINA
Columbia, South Carolina
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate Program (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $170 (Richland, Lexington, and Fairfield Counties), $213 (out-of-county), $510 (out-of-state)
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Flexible Curriculum Includes Both Online and On-Campus Courses
- Outstanding Academic and Career Counseling Services
- Demonstrates a commitment to Student Outcomes by Requiring a ‘C’ or Better in All Courses
A focused program of eight courses of study (24 credit hours) is the hallmark of Midland Technical College’s Paralegal Studies Certificate Program, designed for the bachelor’s-prepared student looking to change careers or advance in their current one. ABA approval speaks to the quality and comprehensive nature of this program’s curriculum, while flexible delivery methods include online and in-person courses at the Airport and Beltline campuses to accommodate students of all kinds, regardless of their professional obligations and geographical limitations. We also love the academic and career counseling services available to students of this program, which include assistance with everything from time management and study skills to individual career planning and career assessments.
TENNESSEE
There are no listings at this time.
TEXAS
School of Continuing Studies
Houston, Texas
Website
Paralegal Graduate Certificate Program
Estimated Program Cost: $4,550
- Flexible Curriculum is Offered in Both an Online and On-Campus Format
- Classroom Program Features Small Class Sizes
- Online Program Features Live Instruction Classes Via Blackboard Ultra
- University Consistently Ranked Among the Top 20 Universities in the U.S.
- Outstanding Career Development and Student Support Services Through the Center for Career Development
- Commitment to Student Success: Requires a Passing Score on a Final Exam
Rice University’s Paralegal Graduate Certificate Program has everything you need to become a skilled paralegal primed and ready for the job. The grad certificate at Rice consists of both an essential skills course and substantive topic courses, along with a comprehensive final to assess mastery and retention of the new knowledge and skillset, which requires a minimum score of 70% to pass. Do you have current professional obligations? Rice has you covered, as it is offers the Paralegal Graduate Certificate Program in both online and classroom formats. The classroom program features small class sizes, while the online program features live instruction classes via Blackboard Ultra. Complete your program here and you’ll be part of a nationally renowned university that has been consistently ranked among the top 20 universities in the U.S. This school’s Center for Career Development offers a variety of career development programs and services, along with valuable opportunities to connect with employers and alumni.
UTAH
Organizational Leadership
Orem, Utah
Website
Legal Studies, Certificate of Proficiency (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $380 (resident) $1,143 (non-resident)
The Organizational Leadership Department at UVU will be enrolling new students in the Legal Studies Certificate program through the fall of 2018, but will be discontinuing the program after that. Courses will continue to be available in the coming years to allow existing students to complete the program.
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship that Includes Oral Presentations, Written Assignments, and the Completion of a Portfolio
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Provides Outstanding Student Support and Career Services Through the Career Development Center
- Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes by Requiring a ‘C’ or Better in All Courses
Utah Valley University’s Legal Studies, Certificate of Proficiency builds on your current associate or bachelor’s degree to provide you with a comprehensive education that covers U.S. law and legal practice with a decided focus on career-ready skills. This 28-credit-hour program is committed to the success of its students, as is evident from its ABA approval status and its available internship experience, which also includes the completion of a portfolio, written assignments, and oral presentations. We also love UVU’s Career Development Center, which focuses on individual career success and career opportunities by nurturing relationships with employers at the community, regional, and national levels.
VIRGINIA
Roanoke, Virginia
Website
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $412
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Externship
- Flexible Curriculum Includes Day and Evening Classes
- One of Just a Few Programs to Offer Preparation For the NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) Exam
- Outstanding Career Services Available to Both Students and Alumni
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Low, 15:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio
American National University’s Paralegal Studies Certificate produces well-rounded paralegals through its comprehensive curriculum that combines legal theory with study that focuses on the legal, technical, and leadership skills that today’s employers are looking for. This 32-credit-hour course of study also prepares students to take NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) exam, one of just a couple programs to offer this valuable tool. But there’s plenty more to love about American National University: ABA approval; day and evening classes to suit traditional students and working professionals; small class sizes (average 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio) for the best in personal attention; and instructors with real-world field experience. We also love this schools superb career services team, which works with students and alumni on resume and cover letter development, interview skills, and the job search itself.
WASHINGTON
Paralegal
Lynnwood, Washington
Website
Advanced Paralegal Certificate (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Cost per Credit: $105 (residents), $282 (non-residents), $78 (eligible veterans)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Committed to Academic Excellence: Curriculum was Developed with the Cooperation of the Washington State Bar Association
- Flexible Curriculum Includes Day, Evening, and Online Courses and the Ability to Start the Program Four Times a Year
- Outstanding Career Services Offered Through the Career Action Center
With a rigorous curriculum that was developed in cooperation with the Washington State Bar Association to meet the ABA’s exacting standards, Edmonds Community College’s Advanced Paralegal Certificate is the epitome of the comprehensive paralegal course of study. But this 40-credit program provides more than just career preperation for the baccalaureate-prepared student—it’s also convenient and accessible, with classes offered in the day, evening, and online. It also offers exceptional accessibility, with new students able to start the program once every few months throughout the year. We also love that students of this program can complete an internship experience, thereby gaining valuable, on-the-job experience that will prepare them to be a valued asset in any legal seetting. As a student of Edmonds Community College, you’ll also have access to their wide-reaching Career Action Center, which offers assistance with recruitment, career information, job searches, and internships.
WISCONSIN
Law, Public Safety and Security
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Website
Paralegal Post-Baccalaureate Technical Diploma
Estimated Program Cost: $4,200
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Committed to Academic Excellence as a Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) and as a Designated ‘Achieving the Dream Leader College’
- Committed to Student Outcomes with a Low, 17:1 Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- Exceptional Track Record of Graduate Success with a 91% Employment Rate
- Outstanding Career Services Include Portfolio Development, Interviewing, Resume Development, and Job Search Assistance, Among Others
Northeast Wisconsin Tech’s 28-credit Paralegal Post-Baccalaureate Technical Diploma is a focused and comprehensive course of study for the baccalaureate-prepared student who has aspirations of becoming a competent and trustworthy member of the legal team or advancing in a current position that intersects with the law. This program earned a spot on our list for its commitment to academic excellence and student outcomes: It holds ABA approval…It’s a member of the AAfPE…It boasts a low, 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio…And it has an impressive 91 percent success rate for graduates entering the job market. Plus, Northwest Wisconsin Technical College is an ‘Achieving the Dream Leader College’—a national designation awarded to select community colleges that are committed to improving student success and closing achievement gaps. We are also impressed with this school’s superb career services, which include assistance with resume writing, interviewing techniques, networking, portfolio development, internships, and job search strategies, just to name a few.
WYOMING
Department of Law
Cheyenne, Wyoming
Website
Paralegal Certificate of Completion (post-baccalaureate)
Estimated Program Cost: $142 (in-state), $189 (WUE states) $330 (out-of-state)
- Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
- Lowered Tuition Rates for Students in States That Participate in the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) Program
- Holds ABA-Approval Status
- Outstanding Career Services Include Job and Internship Searches, Resume Building, Interview Preparation, Career Exploration, and More
A comprehensive paralegal education at affordable community college prices is yours at Laramie County Community College! The ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate of Completion is the ideal program for baccalaureate-prepared career changers who want to become valuable members of the legal team and anybody working in a position that would benefit from more legal expertise. This 30-32-credit program also includes an internship experience, so you can be sure that your education includes not just legal theory but also practical, hands-on training that will ease the transition from student to practicing paralegal. We are also big fans of the college’s Career Center, which offers students plenty of guidance and preparation for career development. Just some of the services offered here include job and internship searches, resume building, interview preparation, career exploration, and more.