Paralegal Studies Certificate Overview

The online Paralegal Studies undergraduate certificate builds the knowledge, skills, and abilities required of a paralegal. Graduates will have the ability to research and prepare legal documents, investigate legal precedent, project-manage law office activity, and provide case management. Paralegals work in private law offices, corporate counsel offices, government agencies, contract management departments, and other settings. Admission is not required for those completing the certificate.

As a student, you will:

  • Complete an overview of a civil trial from the filing of a complaint through the appeals process.
  • Master the foundations of U.S. law, legal research, writing, and other skills needed to be a successful paralegal in a law office setting.
  • Learn the key issues surrounding electronic discovery rules and case management systems in both civil and criminal litigation.
  • Examine the code of ethics and ethical obligations encountered in a legal environment.

At a Glance

Online
24 Credits
$500/Credit
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Next Start Date
Summer II (Jun 23, 2025)

Courses You Might Take

LEST 402

Litigation and Trial Advocacy

3 Credits
LEST 403

Legal Research and Writing

3 Credits
LEST 420

Law Practice Management

3 Credits
LEST 462

Ethics in a Legal Environment

3 Credits
LEST 418

Electronic Discovery and Legal Technology

3 Credits
LEST 324

Interviewing, Negotiation and Alternative Dispute Resolution

3 Credits

What it’s like going to UMass Global?

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Woman shaking hands with man

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Instructor-Led, Session-Based

This program is delivered in an instructor-led format, with eight-week sessions and multiple start dates per year for flexibility. In each class, you'll focus on one topic at a time and can take a session off if needed—no penalty. Courses include online lectures, group discussions, and structured assignments with set deadlines. This format offers clear milestones and peer interaction, making it ideal for students who thrive in a structured learning environment.

Personalized Support Services

UMass Global meets you wherever you are in life, with dedicated support at every step. From enrollment coaching and financial aid to academic advising and career services, we're committed to your success. Access personalized guidance, flexible resources, and a supportive community, empowering you to achieve your educational goals, no matter your starting point.

Woman shaking hands with man

Employer-Aligned Curriculum

At UMass Global, our employer-aligned curriculum ensures that coursework is directly relevant to today’s workplace. Designed with input from industry experts and faculty who are also working professionals, our programs focus on practical, career-advancing skills. Using a “backwards course design,” we tailor coursework to meet current job market needs. Our diverse faculty provides real-world insights and mentorship, ensuring that the skills you learn are immediately applicable to your career or future career changes.

Our Faculty

All Faculty
Portrait of Melissa Meyer
Melissa Meyer, JD
Associate Dean, School of Arts & Sciences, Associate Professor of Legal Studies
Melissa Meyer JD
Portrait of David Long
David Long, JD
Professor of Criminal Justice and Legal Studies
David Long JD

Admission Requirements

Applicants for this program must complete the formal application process and submit required documents. Documents required vary based on the number of transferable credits and include:

0 – 11 TRANSFERABLE CREDITS

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Official high school transcript indicating the date of graduation
  • Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended

12 OR MORE TRANSFERABLE CREDITS

  • A minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA
  • Provide official transcripts from ALL colleges and universities attended

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

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Testimonials

The distinguished faculty and their dedication to their students as well as the administration have made it possible for us students to overcome the challenges we faced and helped us bring our educational goals to fruition.

Maribel L.
Legal Studies, BA

 

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