Certificate in Paralegal Studies

Explore the Law with an On-Campus or Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program

Program Overview

Develop a better understanding of the law and the legal system with the Certificate in Paralegal Studies from Post University. This 30-credit-hour campus-based or online paralegal studies program provides an introduction to law as well as an exploration of real estate law, civil litigation, business law, probate practice, and other areas paralegals, legal assistants, and other professionals in the legal field could experience throughout the course of their careers. Coursework offers learning experiences you could use to develop skills to conduct legal research and prepare legal documents. Your Certificate in Paralegal Studies program also provides opportunities to develop skills that transcend professions, such as communication, critical thinking, and decision making.
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Benefits of an Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program
From the admissions process to graduation day, we are with you every step of the way. Our online paralegal studies students can benefit from online learning flexibility as well as:

  • The support of a personal Post team focused solely on their academic success
  • Insights from experienced industry professionals
  • No class times or strict login times
  • Group discussions in courses to help stay engaged and learning

At A Glance

Online or On Campus

30 Credit Hours

12-Month Typical Program Length

Get Started on Your Degree!

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Curriculum

Certificate in Paralegal Studies: 30 Required Credits

Industry-Focused Curriculum for Professional Skills

Coursework for your paralegal certificate, on ground or online, is designed to help you build the foundation of insights and practical skills necessary to:

  • Engage in practical legal work under the direction of a practicing attorney
  • Use technology in the delivery of legal services
  • Communicate more effectively and professionally
  • Provide relevant services based on ethical awareness and integrity
  • And more!
Sample Courses

Introduction to Law

This course is an introduction to the American federal and state legal systems. Students have the opportunity to learn about the Constitution and the three branches of government it creates: legislative, executive, and judicial. Topics include jurisdiction, statutes, case law, and specific areas of the law.

Estate Administration and Probate Practice

Students have the opportunity to learn the role that wills, trusts, and powers-of-attorney appointments play in the management of personal assets. Additionally, students become familiar with the procedures employed to open, manage, and close decedents’ estates. Other topics include the role of the fiduciary, intestacy, and long-term care.

Civil Litigation Practice

Students are introduced to all aspects of a civil lawsuit, including Jurisdiction, Rules of Procedure, Pleadings, Motions, Discovery, Trial Procedures, and the Appellate Process.

Business Law I

This course provides a practical foundation in key areas of law with a focus on the business context. Topics include constitutional law, contracts. torts, criminal law, digital.

The sample courses listed are intended to illustrate the types of coursework included in this program. Course offerings and requirements may change. Please consult the official University Catalog for current and complete program information.

Licensing Disclosure

Licensure and Program Disclosures

The Certificate in Paralegal Studies is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any legal credential, such as a state law license or a paralegal certification. 

Visit the University Catalog >> for Curriculum, Course Descriptions, and Program Outcomes.

 

“The legal studies program attracts students who are interested in law. We offer a broad-based education in legal studies. Students have the opportunity to obtain exceptional legal skills and knowledge.”
Linda Latimer, JD

Program Chair, Legal Studies

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The admissions team is available to walk you through each step of the application process and clarify any remaining questions.

Accreditation

Institutional Accreditation

NECHE LogoCollege (University) is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the Commission should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:

New England Commission of Higher Education
301 Edgewater Place, Suite 210, Wakefield, MA 01880
(781) 425 7785
E-Mail: [email protected]

For more information on Post University's state licensure or accreditation, please visit the Accreditation page.

Undergraduate Admissions Requirements

Post University’s undergraduate admissions process is structured to be accessible for students planning to study online or on campus. All applicants must complete an admissions application and demonstrate high school completion or an equivalent credential.

Acceptable documentation includes:

  • An official high school transcript showing graduation
  • A General Education Development (GED) certificate or equivalent diploma
  • A home-school transcript recognized by the student’s state
  • An associate degree transcript
  • Official college-level credit, typically 60 or more semester hours, that may apply toward a bachelor’s degree

Applicants are encouraged to connect with admissions advisors, including participating in an advisory session or interview, to support their transition into their selected program.

For detailed and format-specific requirements, including documentation and enrollment steps, please visit:

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Why Students Choose Post University

“Along the way, what I ended up with was a family. My academic advisor would regularly check in and ask ‘How is class going? Do you need any help?’”

Carol Carnegie

Post University Student

Tuition & Ways to Save

An education at Post University is designed to provide long-term value. Tuition is competitively structured, and financial aid opportunities are available for those who qualify. Admissions and financial aid teams work with you to review available options and explain each step of the process clearly.

With multiple funding opportunities available, you may qualify for more than you expect.

Tuition Reductions →

Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.

Scholarships →

Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.

Financial Aid →

Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.

Transfer Credits →

​Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.

Military Benefits →

​Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.

Student Loans →

Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.

Tuition Reductions →

Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.

Scholarships →

Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.

Financial Aid →

Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.

Transfer Credits →

​Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.

Military Benefits →

Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.

Student Loans →

Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.

Ready to take the next steps?

Admissions advisors are available to answer your questions, explain the application process, and help you explore which program aligns with your interests and experience.

If you are considering Post University, we invite you to begin the conversation.

Why Post University?

At Post University, you are not an anonymous face in a crowded lecture hall. You are known and supported from your first conversation through program completion. That is the meaning behind Post Makes It Personal®.

Our approach is grounded in three commitments: career focus, value, and personalization. Whether you are beginning your undergraduate journey, returning to continue your education, or pursuing a graduate degree, Post University offers programs developed with professional practice in mind, led by industry-experienced faculty, and delivered in formats designed to fit into your life.

Post people come from many different backgrounds and life stages. Some are stepping onto campus for the first time, while others are learning online while balancing work, family, military service, or community commitments. Across every format, students are part of a community built on connection, structure, and shared purpose.

Paralegal Studies FAQs 

What Could I Do with this Certificate in Paralegal Studies?

Upon completion of your certificate, you will have had the opportunity to develop the fundamental skills necessary for a future in the legal field. These skills could also be useful in non-legal settings, including areas of business, that could benefit from this type of paralegal training. You could also use this education as a steppingstone toward a higher degree opportunity, such as an Associate or Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies at Post University.

How do you earn a paralegal certificate?

At Post University, our program is offered on campus and online, providing learning flexibility for anyone wishing to delve into the inner workings of the legal field.

What does a paralegal certificate do?

A Certificate in Paralegal Studies could help you build the skills you could use to pursue a future in paralegal work. In addition to legal skills, it could also help you build professional skills in communication and critical thinking.

What qualifications do you need to be a paralegal?

There are many pathways to becoming a paralegal. Many employers require some formal education, whether it is a certificate, associate, or bachelor’s program.

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