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Undergraduate Certificate in Paralegal

This certificate prepares the student with a basic understanding of the legal system and meets the California paralegal requirements. This certificate can also be used toward completion of the Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies.

Paralegal Studies Program Overview

The Paralegal Studies certificate focuses on the attainment of the knowledge, skills and abilities required of a paralegal. Graduates will have the ability to research and prepare legal documents, investigate legal precedent, project-manage law office activity and case management. Paralegals find jobs in private law offices, corporate counsel offices, governmental agencies, contract management departments and other types of departments. Admission is not required for those completing the certificate.

As a student, you will:

  • Complete an overview of a civil trial from the filing of a complaint through the appeals process.
  • Master the foundations of U.S. law, legal research, writing and skill set needed to be a successful paralegal in a law office setting.
  • Learn the key issues surrounding electronic discovery rules and case management systems in both civil and criminal litigation.
  • Examine the code of ethics and ethical obligations encountered in a legal environment.

 
Who Should Enroll

  • Paralegals and Legal Assistants

Next Session

Spring II (Mar 3, 2025)

Estimated Tuition

Ways to Learn

Online

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process and submit required documents. Documents required vary based on the number of transferable credits and include:

0 - 11 TRANSFERABLE CREDITS

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Official high school transcript indicating the date of graduation

12 OR MORE TRANSFERABLE CREDITS

  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
  • Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended
active military?

Admissibility and minimum transfer credit awarded will be determined based on the Community College of the Air Force, SMART, AARTS or JST transcripts.

Transcripts

Only credits from regionally accredited institutions may be accepted in transfer. Failure to report any previous academic work at another college or university may be considered a violation of academic integrity.

HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT UNDERGRADUATE REQUIREMENTS? Request more information>

Program Curriculum

  • LEST 300  Foundations of Law

    3

    LEST 403  Legal Research and Writing

    3

    LEST 402  Litigation and Trial Advocacy

    3

    LEST 416  Contemporary Legal Issues

    3

    LEST 418  Electronic Discovery and Legal Technology

    3

    LEST 420  Law Practice Management

    3

    LEST 462  Ethics in a Legal Environment

    3

    LEST 324  Interviewing, Negotiation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

    3

    Total Credits

    24

The distinguished faculty and their dedication to their students as well as the administration have made it possible for us students to overcome the challenges we faced and helped us bring our educational goals to fruition.
Maribel L.
BA, Legal Studies

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