Paralegal Studies, Certificate
The Paralegal Studies certificate consists of specialized courses as well as general education offerings. It has two basic goals: first, to upgrade the job performance of the paralegal practitioner, and second, to initiate the professional career development of those entering the paralegal field.
Students who opt for a degree may apply the 30 credits from this one-year certificate program to the associate of arts degree in paralegal studies program.
- View the Paralegal Studies Fact Sheet for faculty contact information and additional program information.
Program Pathway
First Year Fall
| ENG-101 | English Composition | 3 credits |
| PLS-101 | Introduction to Paralegal Studies | 3 credits |
| PLS-102 | Legal Research | 3 credits |
Restricted Elective-
| Choose from the list | 3 credits |
| Total Credit Hours: | 12 |
First Year Spring
| PLS-103 | Legal Writing and Documents | 3 credits |
| PLS-104 | Principles of Litigation | 3 credits |
| PLS-203 | Domestic Relations | 3 credits |
| PSY-101 | General Psychology | 3 credits |
| Total Credit Hours: | 12 |
Second Year Fall
| PLS-105 | Contracts and Torts | 3 credits |
| PLS-202 | Criminal Law and Procedure for PLS | 3 credits |
| Total Credit Hours: | 6 |
Program Requirements (27 Credits)
Requirements List
| ENG-101 | English Composition | 3 credits |
| PLS-101 | Introduction to Paralegal Studies | 3 credits |
| PLS-102 | Legal Research | 3 credits |
| PLS-103 | Legal Writing and Documents | 3 credits |
| PLS-104 | Principles of Litigation | 3 credits |
| PLS-105 | Contracts and Torts | 3 credits |
| PLS-202 | Criminal Law and Procedure for PLS | 3 credits |
| PLS-203 | Domestic Relations | 3 credits |
| PSY-101 | General Psychology | 3 credits |
Restricted Elective (3 Credits)
Select Restricted Elective Credits from the Following List
| BUS-104 | Legal Environment of Business | 3 credits |
| POL-101 | American Government | 3 credits |
| PLS-269 | Internship I | 1-3 credits |
Certificate Requirement (30 Credits)
Note:
Students who have been convicted of certain crimes may be precluded from employment in this field and may affect internship placement. Please discuss concerns with the Paralegal Studies program coordinator.