Interested in working in the legal field, but not so much in spending years upon years in school for a law degree? If so, then you may want to consider pursuing a paralegal certificate. This can be useful across a wide range of disciplines outside of the legal field directly.
But what is a paralegal certificate and what does this program of study entail? How does a paralegal certificate differ from a degree? Learn about this and much more to help you determine which type of program may be right for you.
Understanding Paralegal Certificates
First, it is important to understand what working as a paralegal entails, as well as the distinct differences between a paralegal certificate and a paralegal degree.
Role and Responsibilities of a Paralegal
Specifically, a paralegal is a professional who works alongside a lawyer, supporting them by completing any number of tasks that can range from maintaining files to conducting legal research. In some cases, paralegals may also assist in drafting essential legal documents, using technology to deliver certain legal services, and communicating with clients.
Typically, paralegals work in independent law offices. However, paralegals may also be employed by government agencies.
Paralegal Certificate vs. Degree: What Is the Difference?
So, what is a paralegal certificate, and what is a paralegal degree? If you are interested in working as a paralegal, you might be wondering what the difference is between a paralegal certificate and a degree. Generally, certificate programs tend to consist of fewer credit hours, usually around 30 compared to 120-130 in a bachelor’s degree program. As a result, a paralegal certificate may take less time to complete and because schools typically charge by the credit hour, a certificate program may also cost less money than a formal degree.
Pathways to Obtaining a Paralegal Certificate
Curious about how to get a paralegal certificate? The requirements and prerequisites can vary from one school and program to the next. However, there are some general requirements for enrollment to keep in mind that may help inform your decision.
Educational Prerequisites for Enrollment
To enroll in a paralegal certificate program, most schools require that applicants have a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED. Some students applying to a paralegal certificate program may already have an undergraduate degree if they are coming back to school to make a career change, but a formal degree is typically not required.
Generally, there are no other prerequisites, such as submitting ACT or SAT scores, for starting in a paralegal certificate program.
Overview of Accredited Paralegal Programs
When searching for a paralegal certificate program, it is also important for prospective students to select a program or school that is accredited. Accreditation refers to a process that schools or individual programs voluntarily go through as a means of ensuring that their programs and curricula meet certain standards for quality.
Selecting the Right Paralegal Certificate Program
Choosing the right paralegal certificate program is crucial for building a successful career in the legal field. Key considerations and tips can help you make an informed decision.
ABA-Approved Programs and Their Importance
While there are many different accreditations that a school or certificate program can earn, a program that has been ABA-approved is ideal. This will mean that your chosen paralegal program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). The ABA is an independent governing body that issues accreditation to approved law schools and other legal programs that meet certain standards for quality.
By choosing a paralegal degree program that is accredited, students can rest assured that they are enrolling in a program that meets strict standards for quality.
Online vs. In-Person Paralegal Education
Another thing to consider when selecting a paralegal certificate program is whether you prefer an online or in-person format. These days, many schools offer paralegal programs that are available 100% online, which can be convenient for those who have busy schedules or do not live close to a college campus.
By enrolling in an online program, students can enjoy the flexibility and versatility of completing their credit hours online. This can also be useful for those working full-time or have other obligations to fulfill that could make attending classes on a physical campus challenging.
The Application Process Explained
What can you expect when applying to a paralegal program? When exploring how to get a paralegal certificate, each school has its own requirements in place, so you will want to do some of your own research and create a checklist of documents you will need to apply. Still, there are some general tips and requirements worth keeping in mind as you prepare to apply to a paralegal certificate program.
Essential Documents and Application Tips
When applying to a paralegal certificate program, it is common for the school to ask for a copy of your academic transcript. This is a document that you can obtain from your high school or the institution where you completed your highest degree of learning.
You will also need to submit a formal application to a paralegal degree program, which may typically be done online or by mail. Many schools also charge a small application fee, so be sure to keep this in mind as well.
Preparing for the Entrance Requirements
The best way to prepare for the entrance requirements to a paralegal studies certificate program is to give yourself plenty of time to get your documents in order. Sometimes, schools can take a while to respond to requests for academic transcripts, so you should submit requests as far in advance as possible and make copies of your transcripts for your own records.
Meanwhile, take time to familiarize yourself with the admissions process as much as possible. Depending on your school and program, you may be required to complete an advisory session or attend an orientation before beginning classes.
Curriculum and Coursework
A paralegal studies certificate program is designed to prepare students for the hands-on work of a paralegal professional. With this in mind, there are a number of key subjects and skills that may be covered in this type of program.
Key Subjects Covered in Paralegal Programs
The exact courses found in a paralegal studies program may vary from one school to the next, but common courses and subjects may include:
- Introduction to law
- Real estate law
- Civil litigation
- Business law
- Legal research
- Family law
- Estate administration
In some cases, a certificate program may also include a legal studies internship or some other kind of hands-on experience in the field.
Practical Skills and Legal Specialties
Students can expect to complete a paralegal studies certificate program with a number of practical skills that they can apply to their work in the field, including the ability to engage in legal work under the supervision of an attorney. Other practical skills that you may gain from a paralegal certificate program include:
- Using technology to deliver legal services
- Communicating with clients professionally
- Managing and organizing legal files
Those who study paralegal topics may also explore specialties or specific areas of the field, ranging from family law to business law and beyond.
Certification vs. Certificate: Clearing the Confusion
Another common question that people have when considering a paralegal certificate program is whether this is the same thing as getting certified as a paralegal.
Simply put, getting a paralegal certificate, and becoming a certified paralegal are two very different things.
The Process of Becoming a Certified Paralegal
A paralegal certificate program can help prepare students for certification, but the crucial thing to remember is that becoming a certified paralegal is a separate process that grants formal recognition to paralegal professionals who have met certain standards and passed a certification exam. Those who become certified paralegals must also keep their certification active by completing continuing education and professional development each year. You can learn more about the differences between a paralegal certificate and a certification on the American Bar Association website.
Benefits of Certification Beyond the Certificate
Even once you have completed your certificate program, it can be beneficial to go above and beyond by taking the exam and earning your certification as a paralegal. In doing so, you can add another designation to your resume that may help you set yourself apart from others in the field. Because maintaining your certification requires you to complete annual continuing education, this can also be a great way to stay on top of changes in the legal field.
Career Opportunities With a Paralegal Certificate
So, what exactly can you do with a paralegal certificate alone? This credential opens doors to various roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, providing a solid foundation for a rewarding legal career.
Various Legal Settings and Specializations
Those with paralegal certificates can qualify to work as paralegal assistants in lawyers’ offices. However, a paralegal certificate may also be helpful for those working in non-legal careers where additional legal knowledge can come in handy, such as human resources or real estate. Paralegals can also specialize in a certain area of law, such as real estate, family law, business law, or another niche that interests them.
Explore a Certificate in Paralegal Studies at Post University
Whether you are currently working in a law-adjacent field or simply want to make a career change, getting your paralegal certificate can be a step in the right direction. Of course, no two paralegal programs are exactly alike, which is why it is so important to take your time researching and exploring your options. When exploring how to get a paralegal certificate or engage in other paralegal studies, Post University has you covered.
At Post University, our paralegal studies certificate program is offered in both on-campus and online formats, so you can select the program that meets your needs. Our paralegal studies certificate program is designed to help students build the foundation of insights and practical skills necessary to work in this rewarding field. Reach out to learn more about Post University’s paralegal certificate program or start filling out your online application today!
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