Legal and Paralegal Studies

Online Certificates in Legal and Paralegal Studies

Certificate Programs in Legal and Paralegal Studies are designed to boost students' skills in the field and move them ahead in their careers. Starting with foundational courses in Criminal Justice & Legal, most programs then move into a specialization in Legal and Paralegal Studies.

Students in Certificate programs can expect to graduate and move into Legal and Paralegal Studies careers within 1 to 4 years.

Legal and Paralegal Studies Career Outlook

The industry is predicted to grow faster than average during the next decade. With a degree in Legal and Paralegal Studies, you will be in high demand to law firms, corporate legal departments and governmental agencies.

People with Legal and Paralegal degrees work as: Legal assistants, court reporters, legal office administrators, law clerks, title examiners, and claim adjustors.

Legal and Paralegal Studies Salary Information

Salaries for paralegals and legal assistants range from $30,000 to close to $70,000 per year. Advancement opportunities are good; many with a Legal and Paralegal degree move into top managerial positions and other law-related positions within the firm, or they seek employment with larger firms.

Legal and Paralegal Studies Required Job Skills and Knowledge

Employers look for candidates who at least have a certificate or associate degree in Legal and Paralegal Studies. The best candidates have good computer and organizational skills, are good communicators, know how to conduct research, and can represent the employer in a professional manner. People with Legal and Paralegal degrees are expected to have court reporting skills, be able to assist lawyers in researching and prosecuting or defending cases, and know important laws and rulings that affect the legal area of interest.