The majority of paralegal certification programs are post-baccalaureate programs, also referred to as postbac programs. Basically, these programs are designed for the professional who has already earned an associate or bachelor’s degree. The degree itself doesn’t have to be in paralegal studies; a person can have a degree in political science, art history, or even in business. The main thing is that the graduate has the foundation of a higher education, has completed courses in social sciences, English, math, and humanities, and has developed communication and writing skills that will be essential in the paralegal field.
Post-Baccalaureate Vs. Certificate Programs
There are some certification programs that can be completed right out of high school. A paralegal studies program with minimal enrollment requirements usually offers courses that are solely focused on the paralegal career field, with no general education courses, while a postbac program is similar to a graduate program.
Considering the amount of writing, reading, proofing, and research that you’re required to do in this profession, there are definitely many advantages to completing a wide variety of general education courses, in addition to legal classes. These days, many employers will also specifically require a bachelor’s or associate degree as an employment prerequisite. However, if you want to enter the workforce right after graduation then a certification program that doesn’t require a degree as an enrollment prerequisite can be the way to go. It’s important to note that completing this type of training program will not provide the type of higher paralegal salary you can expect if you also have a bachelor’s or associate degree. Additionally, there are law firms out there that will pay for a paralegal’s ongoing education and training in exchange for signing an employment contract. These contracts will typically require the paralegal to work for the law firm for a period of two years after graduation.
Basic Certification Programs for Paralegals
Certification programs usually require twenty to forty-five credit hours. Since most students who choose these entry-level programs right out of high school are working in a full-time position, this type of program is typically offered through online, weekend, or night classes on a part-time or full-time basis. Most programs can be completed in a year, even for students enrolled part-time, however, some programs are designed with flexibility in mind and will allow a student to complete the coursework at their own pace.
Postbac Programs in Paralegal Studies
The postbac programs tend to vary in regard to the areas of law they will focus on. Most of these programs include legal writing, substantive law, legal research, and a few courses in specialty areas for the aspiring litigation paralegal, real estate planning paralegal, or those interested in entering family law.
Typically, students in a post-baccalaureate program are more mature, older, and have some work experience in the field. They’re also extremely motivated to succeed. Paralegals who complete this type of advanced program are often the ones who earn a higher than average salary.
Why You Should Choose a Certification Program in Paralegal Studies
A certification program that offer a few specialty courses can be a great option for those who are interested in working in a specific area of the law. As an example, a student wants to pursue an ecology related career can take a paralegal studies program with courses offered in environmental law. With this background, the graduate will be more likely to find available positions in non-government organizations such as Green Peace, or Global Footprint Network. Because the law tends to impact several areas of the health care world including drug companies, insurance companies, and medical facilities, a person who already holds a degree in nursing can graduate from a paralegal studies program designed for the nurse paralegal and find a higher paying position in the field due to their specialized training.
A basic certificate program can be the best choice for the working individual who is looking to make a major career change in a short amount of time. Certificate programs also provide a good opportunity for anyone who is considering entering law school because it allows students to experience firsthand what a career in the legal field will be like.
A certificate program can even benefit people who don’t have a goal of working solely as a paralegal. Anyone who wants to enroll in a one-year training program in paralegal studies can add legal knowledge to their resume, creating more advancement opportunities in their current profession.
Paralegal Certification Requirements
The NALA, also known as the National Association of Legal Assistants is one of the two main associations for paralegals. This association requires individuals to complete an accredited paralegal training program in order to be eligible for the certified paralegal exam. This exam results in paralegal certification. Below is a list of requirements that will qualify the aspiring paralegal for the certification exam:
- The certificate program must be approved by the ABA or
- The applicant must have completed a postbac certificate program in paralegal studies or
- A bachelors or associate degree program in paralegal studies
- The program must consist of a minimum of sixty semester hours, with fifteen of the semester hours devoted to legal coursework.
Other qualifications can include a bachelor’s degree in any field, in addition to one year of work experience as a paralegal.
Applicants who already have a bachelor’s degree or associate degree and have completed a post-baccalaureate certification program will meet the education requirements for the certification exam. With a qualifying score, an individual will obtain the title of the certified paralegal. Certification is a frequently preferred prerequisite and it’s often recognized as a milestone of professional excellence by law firms and corporations.
Continuing education requirements can vary, depending on the association that awarded the certified paralegal designation. On average, you can expect to complete eight to ten hours of continuing education training a year in order to maintain valid certification. This is also a great way to stay on top of important changes in the legal world. Continuing education training is typically available via on-campus courses, online courses, seminars, and workshops.