Post Baccalaureate Paralegal Programs

A post baccalaureate certificate program is specifically designed for those students who have already completed their undergraduate degree program in any other area of study, but want to pursue further education. A post baccalaureate program in paralegal –– especially one accredited by the American Bar Association –– equips students with specialized knowledge and technical skills required for carrying out legal work under the direction and supervision of lawyers in different legal service settings.

This program is perfect for individuals who want to advance their skill set or go for a career change. If they have a bachelor’s degree in a different field, they can complete this program to qualify for entry level positions in legal services. As a paralegal, you will not be authorized to practice law, but you will be assisting lawyers with their various responsibilities.

These programs are offered by colleges, universities, and community colleges. Students will earn a certificate or a degree, after successful completion. They are shorter and less expensive than a bachelor’s degree program. Students can enroll in an online or on-campus program to gain the required competencies. Online programs are much more convenient and flexible as they allow students to complete the coursework at their own pace. Online programs are also more economical as no transportation and accommodation costs are involved.

Program Outcomes

After completing this program graduates will be able to accomplish the following:-

• Case management in litigation by incorporating standard resources and techniques
• Drafting legal pleadings that are in accordance with the rules of civil procedure
• Utilizing law library resources and legal research databases in the development and execution of legal research plans
• Preparing written reports and oral documents
• Recognizing and applying rules relating to professional ethics governing the practice of law
• Accurate application of introductory principles and legal terminology of procedural law

Program Curriculum

Generally, these programs require 24 credits in paralegal courses. The coursework generally comprise of the following units:-

• Introduction to Paralegalism
• Legal Research and Writing
• Civil litigation
• Interview and Investigation Techniques
• Law Office Management
• Legal Ethics
• Evidence, Investigation and Discovery
• Computer Applications

Most of the courses are compulsory; however, students will get to choose from a few elective courses.  These include fraud examination, family law, bankruptcy law, organizational behavior, cyber forensics, and accounting and medical terminology.

Career Opportunities

As reported by the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of paralegals and legal assistants is predicted to grow by 18% from 2010 to 2020. Graduates of this program generally work under the supervision and direction of lawyers and carry out tasks assigned to them. They are employed in courts, corporate legal departments, federal and state agencies, private law offices and other public and private organizations that require expertise in government regulation and legal processes. Their median annual wage in May 2010 was $46,680. This is a profession where location matters. So, paralegals working in big metropolitan cities will typically earn relatively more than those who are employed in smaller cities or firms.