Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, play a crucial role in supporting lawyers and enhancing the efficiency of legal services. They conduct legal research, draft documents, and manage case files, ensuring all documents comply with legal standards.
Paralegals communicate with clients to gather information, provide updates, and answer basic questions. They also assist in trial preparation and perform various administrative tasks. In specialized areas of law such as family law, real estate, or criminal law, paralegals tailor their tasks to meet specific needs.
This is a very fulfilling career path for those who do not want to be lawyers but want to enter into a career in the legal field. Choosing the right paralegal certificate program can be a stepping stone to a successful career in this dynamic field. This article will guide you through the top online paralegal certificate programs, focusing on key factors such as curriculum, accreditation, and cost, to help you make an informed decision.
Best Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
1. Eastern Kentucky University
Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) was established in Richmond, Kentucky in 1906. It is recognized for its strong online education programs and is particularly known for its criminology, homeland security, and emergency medical care programs.
EKU also provides a Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Science, preparing students for paralegal roles in various settings such as banks, law offices, corporations, and government agencies. The curriculum includes essential subjects like real estate practice, legal research and writing, and family law practice, complemented by an internship experience.
Applicants are required to submit a high school GPA of 2.5 or higher for standard admission. The cost per credit hour is $434 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
2. Madonna University
Madonna University, a private Catholic institution in Livonia, Michigan, was founded in 1937. The university emphasizes integrating ethical and moral values into its educational programs. It offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral degrees, including an online certificate in Paralegal Studies.
The paralegal program includes essential courses such as will and trust drafting, litigation, and law office management. Students must complete at least nine semester hours of legal specialty courses through synchronous online instruction.
For admission, first-year students need a high school diploma with a minimum GPA of 2.8. Transfer students are required to have a GPA of 2.0 or higher. The cost per credit hour is $525 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
3. Davenport University
Davenport University, a private nonprofit institution located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, was founded in 1866 and provides a diverse array of academic programs.
One of the offerings is a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, designed to prepare students for careers in law firms or government agencies or to continue their education with a juris doctorate in law school. This degree includes a blend of business and law courses, allowing students to specialize in either general practice or litigation technology.
Key courses in this program cover topics such as technology in the law office, negotiation and dispute resolution, and advanced litigation, along with an internship component. The program is ABA-approved, and the cost per credit hour is $928 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
Roger Williams University offers flexible scheduling options, including evening and online classes, to accommodate working students and those with other commitments.
4. Roger Williams University
Roger Williams University offers both a Bachelor of Science and a Certificate in Paralegal Studies, with programs approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring high educational standards.
The curriculum includes courses in legal research and writing, civil litigation, criminal law, and family law. Students also study legal ethics and various substantive areas of law, ensuring a comprehensive education. The paralegal program at Roger Williams University aims to equip students with a robust foundation in legal principles and practical skills, preparing them for successful careers in the legal field.
The cost per credit hour is $433 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
5. SUNY College of Technology at Canton
SUNY College of Technology at Canton, also known as SUNY Canton, is a public institution situated in Canton, New York. This college offers a variety of legal studies programs, including an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Legal Studies, a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Studies, and a Paralegal Certificate. These programs are designed to equip students with a thorough legal education and practical skills.
The curriculum for these paralegal programs includes courses such as legal research and writing, civil litigation, criminal law, family law, and real estate law. Students acquire knowledge of legal procedures, ethics, and substantive law. Applicants are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent. The cost per credit hour is $295 for in-state students and $590 for out-of-state students.
6. National University
National University, a private nonprofit institution based in San Diego, California, offers a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies. This program aims to equip students with a thorough understanding of legal principles and the practical skills necessary for a successful career in the legal sector.
The BS in Paralegal Studies at the National University delivers an intensive and comprehensive education in legal terminology, analysis, and research. The curriculum includes courses on litigation, criminal law, and remedies and dispute resolution. Each course is four weeks long, with open enrollment available throughout the year. Applicants are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent.
The paralegal program at National University is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) which shows that it adheres to high educational standards. The cost per credit hour is $370 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
7. University of Massachusetts Global
The University of Massachusetts Global offers a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies that is aimed at equipping students with a vast understanding of legal concepts and the skills needed for careers in the legal field.
The curriculum covers legal research and writing, civil and criminal procedure, constitutional law, ethics, and various substantive areas of law. It emphasizes critical thinking, analysis, and the practical application of legal principles.
The program provides flexible learning options, including online and hybrid formats, enabling students to balance their studies designed to accommodate working professionals. The cost per credit hour is $500 for both in-state and out-of-state students.
8. Purdue University Global
Purdue University Global offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Legal Support and Services and a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Support and Services, which are designed to provide students with a comprehensive legal education and practical skills needed for a career as a paralegal or legal assistant.
The program includes courses in legal research and writing, civil litigation, criminal law, family law, and ethics. Students can also study substantive areas of law and gain knowledge of legal procedures. The program is entirely online, providing flexibility for working adults and those with other commitments. This allows students to complete their studies from anywhere at their own pace.
The cost per credit for Purdue University Global’s paralegal program is $371, regardless of whether students are in-state or out-of-state. This program is not approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
9. Florida Gulf Coast University
Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) is a public university located in Fort Myers, Florida. FGCU offers a Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies with a concentration in Paralegal Studies. This program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in legal principles and practical skills necessary for a career as a paralegal or legal assistant.
The paralegal program includes courses in legal research and writing, civil litigation, criminal law, family law, and legal ethics. Students also gain practical experience through internships and hands-on projects. The program may be accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), ensuring high educational standards and recognition within the legal profession.
The cost per credit for Florida Gulf Coast University varies based on residency status. In-state students pay $106 per credit, while out-of-state students pay $711 per credit.
10. University of Providence
The University of Providence is a private Catholic university located in Great Falls, Montana, it was founded in 1932. This university offers a Paralegal Studies program designed to prepare students for careers as paralegals or legal assistants.
The paralegal program covers various aspects of the legal field, including legal research and writing, civil litigation, criminal law, family law, and real estate law. Students also learn about legal ethics and procedures. Applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent.
The University of Providence offers an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved Paralegal Studies program. The cost per credit is consistent for both in-state and out-of-state students, set at $978 per credit.