Paralegal Certificates & Degrees

Online Paralegal Certificate Programs

There is a wide variety of online certificates in paralegal studies that prepare students for entry-level roles in law offices, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. These programs provide foundational training in legal research, writing, ethics, and core practice areas such as contracts, litigation, or family law. More advanced certificate options may allow students to specialize in topics like corporate compliance, intellectual property, or criminal law, helping them build on prior academic or professional experience.

Who Should Enroll in an Online Paralegal Certificate Program?

Entry-level certificate programs are typically open to students with a high school diploma or GED and are well-suited for those seeking a fast track into the legal field. More advanced post-baccalaureate or graduate-level certificate programs are designed for individuals who already hold a degree in another discipline and want to transition into paralegal work, or for working professionals aiming to deepen their expertise in a specific legal specialty.

Here are several online paralegal certificate programs to consider:

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The paralegal certificate program, offered through the William and Ida Friday Center at UNC Chapel Hill, provides intensive, career-ready training tailored for individuals who aim to enter the legal field or enhance their professional skills.

The curriculum is comprehensive and organized into three components: a foundational paralegal skills course; five substantive law courses (including contracts, criminal law, family law, real property, and torts); and four survey courses in areas like constitutional law, wills & estates, administrative law/business law, and law office technology.

The program has been designated a qualified paralegal studies program by the North Carolina State Bar, making graduates eligible to sit for the state’s Paralegal Certification Examination. This recognition, combined with UNC-Chapel Hill’s strong reputation, positions graduates competitively for employment at law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and related fields.

• Location: Chapel Hill, NC
• Accreditation: SACSCOC
• Estimated Time to Completion: 19 Weeks

Boston University

Boston University’s Metropolitan College offers an intensive, fully online Paralegal Certificate Program designed to be completed in just 14 weeks. The curriculum is organized into seven two-week modules, each covering a key area of paralegal practice. Core topics include legal research, legal writing and reasoning, legal technologies, real estate law, business law, litigation, and probate & family law.

The program emphasizes applied skills, using case studies, assignments, and interactive exercises to replicate real-world legal tasks. Students also benefit from direct support through virtual office hours with instructors: practicing attorneys who bring professional experience into the classroom.

• Location: Boston, MA
• Accreditation: NECHE
• Estimated Time to Completion: 14 weeks

San Francisco State University

The Paralegal Studies Certificate Program at SFSU spans eight courses totaling 24 semester units. Its faculty of practicing attorneys and paralegals provides instruction in both essential legal skills and substantive law. As an ABA-approved program, it not only meets federal accreditation standards but also aligns with California state licensing requirements for paralegals.

Designed for concentrated study, the program can be completed in as little as one year through synchronous online classes, offering structure and accessibility for working professionals. Interactive learning takes place via Zoom and Canvas, enabling students to engage in real-time lectures, small-group discussions, and collaborative exercises while benefiting from integrated digital tools like Westlaw and the SFSU Law Library. Additionally, the curriculum may include an optional practical internship, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world legal environments.

• Location: San Francisco, CA
• Accreditation: WASC; ABA-approved
• Estimated Time to Completion: One year

University of California, San Diego

The UC San Diego Extended Studies division offers a Paralegal Studies Certificate that blends legal theory with practical skills training, preparing students for substantive paralegal tasks under lawyer supervision. Its curriculum covers key aspects of paralegal work, including legal research and writing, civil litigation, business law, torts, contract law, ethics, evidence, and more.
Students enrolled in the accelerated track can complete the program remotely in just one academic quarter. In contrast, the part-time track allows learners to complete required courses at a pace that fits their life and work commitments.

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Accreditation: WASC; ABA-approved
• Estimated Time to Completion: 12 weeks (accelerated); one to two years (part-time)

Purdue Global

Purdue University Global offers a Post‑Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies, crafted for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and wish to transition into the paralegal profession. The program emphasizes foundational legal competencies (including legal communication, research, ethics, and analytical skills) as well as the ability to apply these concepts to real-world legal contexts.

It requires a total of 36 to 37 quarter-credit-hours, depending on elective selection. Graduates of this program should meet educational eligibility requirements to pursue national certification as a Certified Paralegal (CP) through the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).

• Location: West Lafayette, IN
• Accreditation: HLC
• Estimated Time to Completion: Nine to 12 months

Florida International University

Florida International University’s Legal Studies Institute, housed within FIU Law, delivers a flexible and career-focused Paralegal Certificate Program that can be completed either fully online or in a campus-based format.

In the online version, learners complete over 600 hours of instruction, simulations, and required coursework. The on-campus format meets ABA-inspired educational standards that are aligned with guidelines from the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) and the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). It consists of nine in-person courses, each meeting once per week for 14 weeks. Core coursework includes legal research and writing, civil procedure, torts, criminal law, family law, contracts, constitutional law, real estate, and trusts and estates.

Classes across both formats are taught by highly credentialed faculty, including judges, practicing attorneys, and experienced paralegals who bring real-world legal expertise into the program.

• Location: Miami, FL
• Accreditation: SACSOC
• Estimated Time to Completion: One year

Online Degrees for Paralegals

In addition to certificate programs, many colleges and universities now offer associate’s, bachelor’s, and even master’s degrees in paralegal studies through fully online or hybrid formats. These degree programs provide a more comprehensive education, covering not only the fundamentals of legal research, writing, and ethics but also advanced topics such as litigation management, corporate law, and constitutional law. For students seeking to enhance their credentials, these online degree options can be a flexible way to pursue long-term academic and career goals without relocating or leaving the workforce.

Who Should Enroll in an Online Paralegal Degree Program?

Online bachelor’s degrees in paralegal or legal studies are often best suited for those seeking broader career opportunities, access to supervisory roles, or a pathway toward law school or graduate study. Online master’s programs in legal studies (MLS) or related fields are typically designed for professionals who already have significant academic or workplace experience and want to specialize or advance in areas such as compliance, human resources, or corporate governance.

Typical Admission Requirements

Admission requirements for online paralegal degree programs vary by level. Associate programs generally require only a high school diploma or GED, while bachelor’s programs may ask for standardized test scores or prior college coursework. Post-baccalaureate and master’s programs typically expect applicants to hold an accredited undergraduate degree and may request a minimum GPA, professional résumé, personal statement, or letters of recommendation. Some programs, particularly those with ABA approval, may require applicants to demonstrate strong writing and research skills.

Here are several online paralegal degree programs to consider:

University of Hartford

University of Hartford has a suite of flexible online pathways in paralegal education. In addition to a certificate program, it offers an Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) with a concentration in Paralegal Studies. Both are designed to prepare students for substantive legal support roles under attorney supervision.

The AS program is tailored for individuals beginning their college journey or those with fewer than 60 credits. Delivered fully online, it requires 60 credits in total, including 31 in general education and 25 in paralegal-specific coursework. Applicants must earn a minimum 2.0 GPA and complete prerequisite general education credits before beginning paralegal coursework, including classes like Academic Writing and Power & Politics in America.

This online bachelor’s degree requires 120 credits, blending 43 general education credits, 47 credits in paralegal studies, and elective coursework. The curriculum includes an internship, plus advanced electives such as Family Law, Employment Law, Healthcare Law, and Bankruptcy.

• Location: West Hartford, CT
• Accreditation: NECHE; ABA-approved
• Estimated Time to Completion: Two years (AS); four years (BA)

Penn Foster

Penn Foster College offers a fully online Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies, designed to prepare students for entry-level roles such as paralegal or legal assistant. The self‑paced format allows learners to progress according to their own schedules, completing four semesters of coursework that emphasize practical skills like legal research, document preparation, case management, ethics, and both civil and criminal litigation. Graduates qualify to sit for the NALA Certified Paralegal (CP) exam, one of the most recognized credentials in the profession.

• Location: Chandler, AZ
• Accreditation: DEAC
• Estimated Time to Completion: Two years

Paralegal: On-Campus Certificates and Degrees

On-Campus Certificates for Paralegals

Here are several on-campus paralegal certificate and degree programs to consider

Hofstra University

Hofstra Law offers a highly flexible, ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate designed to launch careers in legal support swiftly and effectively. The program is delivered through the Maurice A. Deane School of Law and allows students to complete their certificate in just one term, with both day and evening class options available to accommodate busy schedules.

The curriculum emphasizes practical and emerging skill sets. Curses such as legal technology and immigration law are taught by experienced judges and attorneys in small, interactive classes. This structure ensures students develop hands-on expertise in tools and legal frameworks relevant to today’s law practice.

• Location: Hempstead, NY
• Accreditation: MSCHE; ABA-approved
• Estimated Time to Completion: 4 months

Indiana University Indianapolis

Indiana University Indianapolis offers a Certificate in Paralegal Studies through its Department of Political Science, designed to provide students with a focused foundation in core areas of law. The program requires 27 credit hours, with courses covering subjects such as litigation, property, contracts, bankruptcy, and family law. Taught by practicing attorneys and experienced paralegals, the curriculum emphasizes applied skills in legal research, communication, and ethical judgment.

This certificate may be completed as a stand-alone credential or alongside another degree program, making it a flexible option for both new students and those already pursuing higher education. Students complete the majority of coursework in person at IUPUI, with at least nine credits (including litigation and legal research) delivered synchronously to ensure interactive engagement with faculty and peers.

• Location: Indianapolis, IN
• Accreditation: HLC; ABA-approved
• Estimated Time to Completion: One year

On-Campus Degree Programs for Paralegals

Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University (EMU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies program, fully approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). Designed to equip students with both substantive knowledge and practical skills, the curriculum emphasizes legal research and writing, case investigation, court procedures, and ethical advocacy. Courses cover essential topics including torts, civil procedure, family law, probate law, legal drafting, client interviewing, corporate transactions, and preparation for trial tasks.

Students of the program benefit from guidance by experienced faculty and can enter the program at any stage of their undergraduate studies, including as transfer or second bachelor’s students. A highlight of the program is a unique internship placement at the Washtenaw County Courthouse Legal Resource Center, where students assist community members under attorney supervision.

• Location: Ypsilanti, MI
• Accreditation: HLC; ABA-approved
• Estimated Time to Completion: Four years

Lewis University

The BA in Paralegal Studies at Lewis University equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to serve as effective legal support professionals. Grounded in both theoretical understanding and hands-on practice, the program emphasizes legal research and writing, interviewing, courtroom procedure, and ethical decision-making. Students learn to prepare documents, conduct client and witness interviews, and support attorneys through substantive legal work.

Key strengths of the program include a faculty with real-world legal experience, small class sizes that foster interaction and mentoring, and a robust curriculum infused with practical training. Courses also provide training in court form and filing procedures, judicial council rules, and preparation skills for those considering law school. Additionally, the program allows transfer of applicable paralegal coursework from other institutions, subject to approval.

• Location: Romeoville, IL
• Accreditation: HLC; ABA-approved
• Estimated Time to Completion: Four years

Paralegal Program Accreditation

When selecting a paralegal program, it is important to consider both institutional and programmatic accreditation. Accreditation ensures that a school or program meets established standards for quality in areas such as curriculum, faculty, facilities, and student outcomes. Choosing an accredited institution not only assures students of a rigorous education but also increases the likelihood that credits will transfer between schools and that employers will recognize the credential.

Programmatic Accreditation

For paralegal programs, the most widely recognized programmatic accreditor is the American Bar Association (ABA). ABA approval indicates that a program has met high standards developed in consultation with practicing attorneys, legal employers, and bar associations. Graduating from an ABA-approved program can be a competitive advantage in the job market, as some employers specifically prefer or require candidates with this credential.

Other paralegal and legal studies programs may also be affiliated with professional bodies such as the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE), which promotes best practices and academic standards in paralegal education. While AAfPE does not accredit programs directly, membership signals a program’s commitment to quality and professional development.

Institutional Accreditation

Beyond program-level approval, students should also verify that the college or university as a whole holds institutional accreditation from a recognized regional accrediting agency. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes the following regional accreditors:

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges (ACCJC), Western Association of Schools and Colleges

Institutional accreditation is crucial for federal financial aid eligibility, credit transferability, and broad recognition of a degree or certificate.

Paralegal Professional Certification

While certification is not required to work as a paralegal, earning a credential can demonstrate professional competence, enhance credibility, and improve employment opportunities. Several national organizations administer respected certification programs, each with its own eligibility requirements and maintenance standards.

The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) offers the Certified Paralegal (CP) designation, which is one of the most widely recognized credentials in the field. Candidates must meet educational or experience-based prerequisites and pass a comprehensive exam covering legal research, communications, ethics, and substantive law. For experienced paralegals, NALA also offers the Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP) credential, which requires additional coursework in specialized areas such as contract management, family law, or discovery. Both CP and ACP certificants must complete continuing legal education (CLE) to maintain active status.

The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) provides two levels of certification. The Core Registered Paralegal (CRP) credential is aimed at entry-level paralegals and requires passing the Paralegal CORE Competency Exam (PCCE). The more advanced Registered Paralegal (RP) designation requires the Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) in addition to a combination of education and professional experience. Both NFPA certifications must be maintained through annual CLE requirements.

The American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc. (AAPI) awards the American Alliance Certified Paralegal (AACP) credential. Unlike NALA or NFPA, AAPI does not require an exam; instead, eligibility is based on a minimum of five years of paralegal experience plus qualifying academic credentials, such as a bachelor’s degree or a degree from an ABA-approved or AAfPE-member paralegal program. Renewal requires 18 hours of CLE every two years, including two hours in ethics.

Finally, some states and professional associations offer additional certifications. For example, California and Texas have state-specific paralegal credentialing systems, while organizations such as the National Association for Legal Professionals (NALS) provide certifications in legal support and office management. These can be valuable for paralegals practicing in specialized fields or in regions where state recognition carries added weight.