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Paralegal Studies Undergraduate Certificate

Start Your Path to a Paralegal Career

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Certificate in Paralegal Studies

Career Outlook and Growth

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegal and legal assistant jobs are expected to grow through the year 2032 with projected job openings of 38,000 in the United States.1

U.S. News also ranked Paralegal as one of the best social service jobs of 2023.2

1 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Edition, Paralegals and Legal Assistants, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm. (visited 1/20/2024). Also online at http://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/23-2011.00. Note that job market conditions are dynamic and can change. This data is not intended to predict the market conditions that will be present when you graduate from your program and may differ based on our geographic location and other factors.

See U.S. News Best Social Service Jobs 2023.

Expanding Careers Opportunities

As a graduate of the Bryan University Certificate in Paralegal Studies, examples of career opportunities3 may include:

  • Litigation Paralegal
  • Legal Support Specialist
  • Legal Assistant
  • Litigation Clerk
  • Discovery Paralegal
  • Court Clerk
  • Law Clerk
  • Real Estate Paralegal
  • Attorney Assistant
  • Judicial Assistant

Example occupations shown herein do not imply a guarantee of employment. Students are responsible for conducting occupational research for their chosen program. Employers have unique hiring practices and job-specific requirements, which may include years of experience for manager positions. Graduates with little to no prior experience should expect an entry-level position.

Attractive Employers

Examples of employment settings may include:

  • Local and international law firms
  • Corporate legal departments
  • Professional services firms
  • Finance and insurance firms
  • Government agencies
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Career & Job Search Services for Students & Grads

You’ll receive a dedicated career services advisor that provides job search assistance, job networking best practices, interview preparation, and helps you create an eye-catching resume.

Employers Who Have Hired BU Grads

Program Highlights

30
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Total Credits
100%
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Online
2
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Courses at a Time
8
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Weeks per Course

Get the Skills Employers Want

Bryan U programs are aligned with employers’ needs to ensure you get the most current and relevant skills, including:

Certificate

  • Legal office technologies and software
  • Overview of the legal system
  • Overview of the paralegal profession
  • Civil litigation process
  • Legal research and writing
  • Personal injury law
  • Family law
  • Criminal law
  • Business law
  • Contract law

Associate Degree

  • Collection, preservation and analysis of electronically- stored information 
  • eDiscovery software & project management
  • eDiscovery information, governance, processing, and software
  • Legal research and writing
  • eDiscovery simulation and application
  • Foundations of eDiscovery
  • Deposition preparation
  • Gain experience working in Relativity and preparation for the Relativity certification – one exam attempt included in tuition
  • Preparation for NALA’s Certified Paralegal Certification – one exam attempt included in tuition

Gain Valuable Experience

Bryan University’s Paralegal Studies Undergraduate Certificate is aligned with current competencies that law firms need and developed in collaboration with industry experts. You’ll gain real-world practice experience online combined with assignments that simulate job tasks to ensure you’re job-ready upon graduation.

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Become experienced in using Nexis Uni, a powerhouse database system containing over 15,000 sources, to conduct legal research including case law research.

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Learn how to use Clio, one of the largest legal software systems for billing, record management, and client intake, to complete assignments & simulate job-related tasks.

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Upgrade Your Skills & Career Options: Stackable Programs with Dual Enrollment

Once you complete your Paralegal Studies Certificate, you can transfer this directly into the Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies. Or you may consider continuing your education at Bryan University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Paralegal Studies. If you have prior college credit, or you have already completed a certificate or an associate degree at another institution, we will accept as many credits as possible (and potentially your entire certificate or associate degree) to help accelerate your Bryan program.

Hear from Our Successful Graduates

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“My favorite aspect of online learning was the preparation it gave me for my career. Everything is online now – for example in Texas, attorneys need to know how to locate files online. At my current job, everything is done on the internet, and I feel that Bryan helped prepare me for this – from using a scheduling app to uploading files to the cloud.”
–Zoni Berger, Bryan U Graduate
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"The experience at Bryan University exceeded my expectations and improved my life." 
–Claire Cielinski, BU Graduate

Meet Your Program Faculty

  • Christine Leavitt
    Christine Leavitt
    Program Director, Bryan University

    JD, Law, Brigham Young University; Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Spanish, Southern Utah University; Certificate, International Relations, Southern Utah University.

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    Christine Leavitt
    Christine Leavitt Program Director, Bryan University

    JD, Law, Brigham Young University; Bachelor of Arts, Political Science, Spanish, Southern Utah University; Certificate, International Relations, Southern Utah University.

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    Carlos Baradat
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Bachelor of Science, Legal Studies, Hodges University; Juris Doctor, Florida A&M University College of Law

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    Carlos Baradat Faculty, Bryan University

    Bachelor of Science, Legal Studies, Hodges University; Juris Doctor, Florida A&M University College of Law

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    Tiffany Bratt
    Faculty, Bryan University

    JD, Law, Brigham Young University; BA, English Language, German, Brigham Young University.

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    Tiffany Bratt Faculty, Bryan University

    JD, Law, Brigham Young University; BA, English Language, German, Brigham Young University.

Meet Your General Education Faculty

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    Valerie Akbulut
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Master of Arts, Communication, Interpersonal Comm Track, University of Central Florida; Bachelor of Arts, Journalism, Specialization – Integrated Communication: Public Relations & Adve, Communication Studies minor, Butler University.

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    Valerie Akbulut portrait
    Valerie Akbulut Faculty, Bryan University

    Master of Arts, Communication, Interpersonal Comm Track, University of Central Florida; Bachelor of Arts, Journalism, Specialization – Integrated Communication: Public Relations & Adve, Communication Studies minor, Butler University.

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    Kelly Baker
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Doctor of Public Administration, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; Master of Arts, Communication Studies, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; Bachelor of Arts, Communication, Immaculata University.

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    Kelly Baker portrait
    Kelly Baker Faculty, Bryan University

    Doctor of Public Administration, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; Master of Arts, Communication Studies, West Chester University of Pennsylvania; Bachelor of Arts, Communication, Immaculata University.

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    Tonia Benton
    Faculty, Bryan University

    Doctor of Education, Higher Education Leadership, Walden University; Master of Arts, Education: Curriculum/Instruction, University of Phoenix; Bachelor of Arts, English/Secondary Education, Converse College

    read more
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    Tonia Benton Faculty, Bryan University

    Doctor of Education, Higher Education Leadership, Walden University; Master of Arts, Education: Curriculum/Instruction, University of Phoenix; Bachelor of Arts, English/Secondary Education, Converse College

Program Learning Outcomes

Following the completion of the program, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate written legal communication skills.
  • Employ basic legal research skills including manual and technology-supported research.
  • Employ basic legal analysis skills including with respect to case opinions, real-world fact patterns, and hypothetical scenarios.
  • Apply critical thinking skills in typical paralegal work assignments.
  • Prepare basic legal documents including legal memoranda, motions, pleadings, and related court documents.
  • Assemble legal documents for purposes of satisfying tasks typically requested of an entry-level paralegal.
  • Describe the role of the paralegal in the modern-day legal setting.
  • Differentiate between authorized and unauthorized practices of law.
  • Employ legal technology to access basic legal documents and legal resources including federal and state court websites and case law.
  • Evaluate real-world and hypothetical legal scenarios for ethical considerations.
  • Perform entry-level paralegal tasks in compliance with applicable rules of professional conduct.
Expand

Explore Paralegal Studies Courses

  • LGL-110, 3.0 credits
    Introduction to Paralegal Sciences

    This course presents the role of paralegals in the legal system, introduces paralegal skills, and explores career opportunities. It highlights the ethical and professional guidelines that govern the paralegal field. It also introduces the sources of law, an overview of courts, and alternative dispute resolution systems.

  • LGL-150 , 3.0 credits
    Civil Procedure

    This course presents the role of paralegals in the civil litigation process including alternative dispute resolution. It gives students instruction on basic legal research and writing, drafting documents and pleadings, and electronic filing.

  • LGL-160, 3.0 credits
    Introduction to Law Firm Technology

    This course provides the paralegal student with an introduction to the types and functions of technology in the legal field, providing them with knowledge of and access to commonly used software.

  • LGL-170, 3.0 credits
    Legal Research and Writing I

    This course expands the skills of the paralegal student in performing legal research and writing, emphasizing case briefing and legal analysis. It provides students with experience using research tools and search engines available in the legal field.

  • LGL-180, 3.0 credits
    Torts

    This course provides a basic understanding of personal injury, wrongful death, professional malpractice, and civil rights litigation. Students develop skills in applying law to fact patterns as well as utilizing rules of state and federal civil procedure.

  • LGL-220, 3.0 credits
    Criminal Law and Procedure

    This course involves the study of both substantive and procedural criminal law and the different stages of the criminal process from the prospect of both prosecution and defense. Topics include the classifications and elements of state and federal crimes, constitutional civil rights, procedural and evidentiary rules, criminal trial litigation preparation.

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A legacy of graduate success since 1940.

Accreditation & Approvals

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Benefits for You

Included in Tuition

As a Bryan University student, you’ll receive these benefits and services included in tuition at no extra cost.

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    Industry Certifications & Credentials

    Prepare for third-party certifications – one certification exam attempt paid for by the university.

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    Electronic Books & Courseware

    We give you easy access to your e-textbooks and software.

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    Tutoring & Academic Support

    Our tutors and academic staff provide personalized support whenever you need it.

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    School Starter Kit

    You’ll receive a starter package to ensure you’re ready to succeed in your program.

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    Accelerated Programs & No Waiting Lists

    Finish in the shortest time possible and never get wait-listed for course registration.

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    Refresher Classes

    As a graduate, audit previously completed courses free to keep your skills sharp.

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    Personal Success Coach

    You'll receive dedicated support to help you succeed in and out of the classroom.

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    Career Services

    Get expert help to ensure you're job-ready and connect with employers.

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    Mentoring from Expert Faculty

    Learn from faculty with real-world experience in their field.

Recommended by Students & Grads

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Why Learn Online

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    Flexible & Convenient

    We recognize that life can be busy and complex, so we’ve designed the learning experience around you. You have the option to complete your homework assignments online each week at days and times convenient to you. You have the flexibility to resubmit homework to improve your grades and gain greater mastery of the course content.

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    Learn Faster & Retain More

    We provide you with user-friendly learning technology such as adaptive digital textbooks and simulated job tasks to help you learn faster, easier, and retain more knowledge. All your efforts are recorded so you can track your progress and plan your time more effectively.

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    Personalized Academic Support

    Studying online with Bryan lets you learn from the comfort of home while connecting you in live events with peers, teachers, industry professionals, and mentors. If you happen to miss the event, we record them so can you watch them later and not miss a beat. Whenever you need help with an assignment, you can schedule a tutor at any time online with the click of a button.

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    Connect with your Community

    You'll have ample weekly opportunities to connect with your classmates and expand your professional network through Paralegal Club meetings, homework hours, and live, industry-relevant events.

How You Learn Online

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Live Classes & Events on Zoom

Most programs provide live classes that are also recorded in case you miss them and need to watch them later - click here for a list of live classes by program.

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Re-submit Homework for Mastery

Didn't get the grade you wanted? At Bryan U, you can resubmit your homework to improve your grades.

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User-Friendly Learning Technology

You'll learn using a program that adapts to your knowledge level while helping you learn faster and retain more.

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Share Your Interests

Engage with others in class using a social platform to share your thoughts on topics you're interested in.

BU Student Experience

Affording College

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Tuition Lock Guarantee

Bryan offers affordable tuition rates for all students, no matter where they reside. We don't differentiate between residents or non-residents. We also lock-in your tuition rate when you enroll, so you can rest assured that your tuition will never increase over the length of your program.

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Transfer Credits

If you apply to Bryan University with prior college credits and/or a degree, we’ll accept as many credits as possible to validate the hard work you’ve already completed. If you complete a Bryan U associate degree or undergraduate certificate, these credits are transferrable to a higher degree, such as a bachelor’s degree.

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Financial Aid if You Qualify

As an accredited institution, students of Bryan University who are residents of the United States may qualify for federal financial aid. Our team of dedicated financial advisors can also help you understand what other options are available to you. To learn about those who qualify, please visit our financial aid page.

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Active-Duty Military & Veterans

For students who are veterans or active-duty members of the U.S. military, you may also use your military educational benefits, if qualified. Please see our military benefits page for more details. You may also complete the Request Information form or call us at 888-721-9773 to receive immediate assistance.

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Tuition Rates Go Down the Longer You're in School

As you progress through each credential level (e.g., certificate to associate degree, or associate degree to bachelor’s degree), your tuition decreases. Plus, your tuition is locked in once you enroll so that it never goes up as long as you remain continuously enrolled in good academic standing. For a current listing of Bryan University’s tuition rates by program, please visit our tuition rates page.

Admission Requirements

To be admitted to Bryan University, prospective students must complete the following requirements:

  • Earn a high school diploma or its equivalent.
  • Be at least 17 years of age. If a student is under the age of 18, they will be required to have a parent or legal guardian counter-sign enrollment forms.
  • Fill out the University’s Application and pay a $25 registration fee.
  • Pass a computer and internet speed assessment to ensure technology minimums are met. Please see the university’s course catalog to see detailed technology requirements.
  • Complete all required forms for admission.
  • For transfer credit evaluation, submit official transcripts from past colleges and universities attended.
  • Complete an online introductory course – “LaunchPad” – to demonstrate the ability to navigate online coursework.
  • Attend online orientation to meet your faculty and classmates.
  • For all healthcare, public health, paralegal, and pharmacy technician programs, applicants must complete and pass a required criminal background check, which is provided by the university.
  • Note that students applying to healthcare programs may need to identify a practicum site. The university provides a list of approved practicum sites and will support students in site selection.

To begin this process, we invite you to contact a member of our admissions team at 888-768-6861 or complete the Request Information form.

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