The paralegal program is designed for individuals looking to advance their careers or transition into the legal field. By building upon existing skills, this program offers a comprehensive understanding of the legal system.
The program is great for anyone:
- Aspiring to work as a paralegal: This program provides the necessary skills and knowledge to enter the paralegal field.
- Advancing their careers: If you're already working in a legal or administrative role, a paralegal certificate can help you gain specialized skills and advance your career.
- Seeking a flexible education option: This evening program is offered both at the DePaul Loop Campus and online.
- Desiring a rewarding and challenging career: Paralegals play a vital role in the legal system and enjoy a fulfilling and intellectually stimulating career.
Why has DePaul University chosen to offer a Certificate in Paralegal Studies?
When considering a career as a paralegal, you have the option of pursuing a four-year bachelor's degree, a two-year associate's degree, or a paralegal certificate program. DePaul has chosen to offer a certificate program for the following reasons:
- Audience: While traditional degree programs may be suitable for students considering law school, our certificate program is designed for individuals with limited education, limited or no work experience, or those who do not plan to pursue a law degree. It focuses exclusively on paralegal skills, making it ideal for career changers or those seeking to enhance their current employment.
- Time: Our certificate program allows students to concentrate their studies on paralegal skills, eliminating the need for general education courses often required in longer programs. This intensive format provides comprehensive training in a shorter timeframe.
- Cost: The focused nature of our program enables us to offer it at a competitive price, making it accessible to many students.
- Industry Reception: The DePaul Paralegal Studies Certificate Program has been well-received by the Chicago legal community. We believe that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of the paralegal profession.
How often is the program offered?
The DePaul Paralegal Studies Certificate Program is offered at least twice a year.
What is the format of the program?
The DePaul Paralegal Studies Certificate Program meets twice a week in the evening, for 3 hours each day. The program is offered online live via Zoom or offered at the Loop Campus.
How long is the program?
The program runs for 17 weeks and meets twice a week from 6:00 to 9:00 pm CT.
Who teaches in the DePaul University Paralegal Studies Program?
The DePaul Paralegal Studies Certificate Program is taught by lawyers and paralegals. These individuals have experience in the subject matter area being taught and enrich the professional working adult’s learning experience.
Is the curriculum designed only for residents of Illinois?
No, the DePaul Paralegal Studies Certificate is designed to be applicable nationwide. While less than six percent of the program focuses on Illinois procedures, we will direct you to resources for the state where you reside. The skills and knowledge gained through this program are transferable to paralegal positions across the United States.
What are the prerequisites to take the program?
This program has no admission requirements. People taking the program should:
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Be at least 18 years of age.
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Be fluent in the English language (including speaking, reading, and writing).
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Be comfortable with research and writing.
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Have regular access to a computer and the internet.
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Be comfortable with standard office software and internet-based resources.
What is the tuition for the program?
The online paralegal program tuition fee is $6,795. Please note that books are not included and can cost between $500 and $625.
Do I have to pay tuition all at once?
Yes. Full tuition is due at the time of registration.
What books/materials are required for the program?
Required course materials, including up to four books, can cost approximately $600 and are not included in the registration fee. A few days before the class starts, students will receive an email with a list of required materials and recommendations for purchasing the textbook.
Is financial aid available?
No, this is a non-credit/non-degree program, there is no financial aid available.
Can I apply for federal funding or FAFSA?
No, the DePaul Paralegal Student Certificate Program is a non-degree program and is not eligible for federal student loans.
Does DePaul University provide a 1098-T form for tax credit for tuition?
No. Non-credit programs at DePaul University do not generate 1098-T forms, in accordance with the IRS guideline.
Does this program qualify for financial assistance through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)?
In order to find out if you qualify for financial assistance, you must first contact Workforce Development. As a certified program under the ILLINOIS workNet initiative, this program has been approved for workforce training grants for those who are eligible. Funding may be available for those receiving unemployment benefits. Please contact Workforce Development for more information.
What is your refund policy?
All requests to cancel registration and receive refunds must be received at least seven (7) days before the course is scheduled to start. The request must be sent to cperegistration@depaul.edu.
If a cancellation notification is received before the seven-day window closes, a full refund, minus a $75 cancellation fee, will be remitted.
Refunds will be applied through the original payment method, e.g. credit card payments will receive a credit on the same card. The university takes three (3) to four (4) weeks to process refunds via check or credit card.
Tuition is non-refundable less than seven (7) days before the course start date or after it has started.
Can I use this program for university credit elsewhere?
No, the DePaul Paralegal Studies Certificate Program is a professional, non-credit program that awards a post-baccalaureate certificate. This program does not grant college credits. However, the program may be eligible for Prior Learning Assessment (PLA), which allows you to apply the certificate towards the completion of a degree in DePaul’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies (SCPS). You can find more information at Prior Learning Assessment.
Is this a graded program?
Yes. There are assignments. Students must achieve a final grade of B- (an average score of 80% on assignment and exams as well at least 80% attendance) in the program to successfully complete it and earn the certificate.
When do I get my certificate?
Upon successful completion of the program, the university will mail the DePaul University Paralegal Studies Certificate of Completion to all students with a $0 balance with DePaul, a final grade of B- or better, and at least 80% attendance. The certificate is mailed via USPS and should be received within 3 months after the program end date.
Can I take individual classes?
No, the DePaul Paralegal Studies Certificate Program must be completed in its entirety. Individual classes cannot be taken separately.
Will DePaul assist me with getting a job after completing the program?
DePaul University does not offer formal job placement, job search assistance, or career services. Although we strive to prepare students for the job market, students are responsible for finding their own employment after completing the program.
Each year DePaul receives job postings from various law firms, court systems, and organizations and shares them with alumni of the program. Many organizations have hired DePaul paralegal students.
Is the DePaul University Paralegal Studies Program "approved" by the American Bar Association?
DePaul University has intentionally chosen not to pursue ABA approval for its Paralegal Studies Certificate Program. Around 23% of paralegal programs nationwide have sought ABA approval, which is not a form of accreditation. ABA approval is not a requirement for a successful paralegal program. DePaul has offered this program since 2006, and not seeking ABA approval has never been an issue for students or employers.
Can I sit for national Paralegal examinations?
The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) each offer a voluntary examination (for a fee). Illinois (and most other states) does not currently require paralegals to take an exam, and most paralegals choose not to take either exam.
Students that have obtained a bachelor's degree in any field and complete the DePaul Paralegal Studies Certificate Program should be eligible to sit for either exam. Please contact NALA or NFPA for the most current requirements to sit for those examinations.
