Paralegal Certificate

This American-Bar Association (ABA)-approved Paralegal Certificate consists of 13 legal specialty courses and can be completed in one year. This program provides students with upper-division coursework that is current and focuses on the practical application of substantive law while encouraging critical thinking, ethical conduct and social responsibility. Paralegals are highly respected and valued in the legal profession. They enjoy a high rate of job satisfaction while working in an environment that is fast-paced and professional. Working with lawyers, paralegals play a vital role in providing legal services. Students enrolled in the certificate program may apply to the BA Legal Studies at any time.

Curriculum
Our curriculum complies with California Business and Professions code sections 6450 through 6456 requiring paralegals to be educated at an accredited institution offering a minimum of 37 quarter units of legal specialty coursework. To view the Certificate in Paralegal Studies curriculum, please click here.

Paralegals cannot provide legal advice except as directed by an attorney nor can they establish a client/business relationship or represent a client in court.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to this program, students must have 54 quarter units of transferable college credit. Of the 54 quarter units at least 27 quarter units must be in at least three of the following disciplines.

Social and Behavioral Sciences
English (English Composition must be completed with a grade of C or higher)
Foreign language
Mathematics
Humanities
Natural or Physical Science

How to Apply

Students are admitted on a rolling basis. New students may enter the Legal Studies Program in the Fall or Spring quarters. Applications must be completed two weeks prior to the desired starting quarter. To be considered for admission, the following are required:

A completed application form and nonrefundable application fee.
A writing sample (attached to the application form).
Interview with a faculty advisor.
One set of official transcripts of all college work.

Go to the Legal Studies Home Page