Professional Legal Studies Certificate
This ABA-approved professional certificate program in Professional Legal Studies allows students to build upon a baccalaureate degree in any field to gain the specific legal knowledge necessary to seek employment in the paralegal field.
Format
Schedule
Classes start: January 24
and March 22
Credits Required
31 credits
Cost
Ways to Save
Are you:
A resident of Central Falls, Cranston, East Providence, Foster, Glocester, Pawtucket or Providence?
A municipal or state government employee?
A veteran or military member?
Unemployed or underemployed?
Deserving of credit for life experience?
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At UC, You Can
Approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) since 1988, and accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education, this professional certificate program provides specialized legal training that builds on top of a non-legal degree, preparing students for entry-level paralegal careers.
The Paralegal Studies professional certificate program is open to students who have previously earned a baccalaureate degree. Under exceptional circumstances, this requirement may be waived.
As you work with our faculty, each respected in their field, you'll build lasting connections that open doors to your success.
"I teach my students all sorts of subsets of litigation. I was a litigator as an attorney and now people litigate cases before me. I teach students from my hands-on experience from the start of a case through the ultimate appeal, if necessary."
– Michael Feeney, Judge, Rhode Island Worker's Compensation Court
His Advice: Get involved, and it opens doors.
More: Teaching As An Extension of Law: Judge Michael Feeney, UC Adjunct Professor
Paralegals work in a variety of law offices. Our students receive education in many different facets of substantive law, including litigation, criminal law, legal databases and alternative dispute resolution, in order to develop well-rounded legal professionals capable of succeeding in any field. It should be noted that paralegals are prohibited from the practice of law except when allowed by law or court rule.
Sample Courses
Legal Research & Writing I and II
Law of Contracts
Litigation I and II
Credits Required
Nine required courses and two paralegal electives, for a total of eleven courses, or 31 credits.
How You'll Get There
At UC, we support you on your individual path. Whether you are just starting out or picking up where you left off, we work with you to accomplish your goals. As you work with our faculty, each respected in their field, you'll build lasting connections that open doors to your success.
You may take advantage of our prior learning assessment, applying transfer credit, trainings and assessments, military experience, work experience, and self-taught skills toward your certificate.
An Expert Advisor
All matriculating students are assigned a on-on-one advisor, who is both an adjunct professor and an expert in their field.
Flexible, Online Schedule
The entire Paralegal Studies degree can be completed from anywhere. The majority of the courses are available online without specific course meeting times. In accordance with ABA requirements, a minimum of 9 credits (3 courses) of legal specialty courses must be taken in synchronous instruction. That means you will either attend class meetings through your computer or at our conveniently located campus in downtown Providence. Your advisor will help you determine the best schedule for you.
Individualized Support, More Affordable
At University College, you get the individualized attention of a private university at a more affordable cost. There are multiple options for financial aid, scholarships, and accelerated paths to get you to the degree you need. Some programs run by Roger Williams are awarded by simply applying for admission, while others are awarded to students through a more formal aid application process.
To ensure full consideration for all aid programs, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Learn More About Tuition at UC
Questions?
Everyone has questions.
Our Pathway Specialists are here to help. Contact UC Admissions at ucadmissions@rwu.edu.