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Certificate Program Overview
Boston University’s online Paralegal Certificate Program covers the essential professional competencies required in the paralegal field, including the effective use of technological tools and databases that paralegals use on a regular basis. Over the course of BU’s paralegal program, students are introduced to the practices that form the backbone of the industry, developing their knowledge of advanced research techniques and the fundamentals of legal writing. Additionally, the certificate program explores specific areas of law to prepare students for a variety of in-demand legal settings, including:
- Real Estate Law
- Business Law
- Litigation
- Probate and Family Law
- Legal Technologies
- Legal Writing and Reasoning
- Legal Research
The coursework, a series of seven, two-week-long modules, closely examines the areas of the legal field that are most essential to the daily functions of a paralegal. Through advanced case studies, discussion board participation, detailed assessments, and regular, hands-on assignments, students can examine the nuances of the law through Boston University’s online paralegal certificate program. Students also have access to virtual office hours with each module. No appointment is needed.
Request a Brochure
To download a program brochure and learn more about the online Paralegal Studies Program offered by Boston University, please fill out the form. You can also get in touch with an enrollment specialist directly by calling us at (857) 971-4728.
Who Should Enroll?
The online Paralegal Studies Program offers students an opportunity to build on existing skills or set the framework for expansion into an entirely new career path. It is a perfect fit for students from a wide variety of backgrounds, including:
- Individuals with an undergraduate degree in another discipline who would like to change their current career path and pursue a job as a paralegal
- Professionals in administrative positions within the legal field (secretary, clerk, etc.) that might be looking to move up in their career
- Paralegals who would like to update their skills or earn an advanced certificate from a prestigious, nationally recognized institution
- Recent college graduates considering law school
- International students—see our International Students page for more details.
Explore the Online Paralegal Certificate Program
- Explore the robust set of paralegal courses designed to prepare students with up-to-date, dynamic skills for a successful paralegal career.
- Do you have what it takes to become a paralegal? View the program requirements.
- Meet the online paralegal certificate program instructors who are all experienced legal experts.
- Questions or concerns? Visit our FAQ page or contact an enrollment specialist.
Expand Your Paralegal Knowledge With Standalone Modules
BU offers opportunities to gain additional legal knowledge in criminal law and elder law, plus an exclusive opportunity to engage in comprehensive paralegal career prep. Each module is two-weeks long, 100% online and includes optional live components led by instructors active in law, plus coursework that simulates real work in high-demand legal areas.
Learn more about the Criminal Law, Elder Law, and Paralegal Workshop modules.
Students who complete any standalone module will earn a digital badge of completion from Boston University that demonstrates the depth and breadth of their paralegal knowledge. This shareable badge is a verified symbol of your skills and can be displayed on LinkedIn, in your email signature, or across your digital portfolio.
Your 14-week path to the legal field starts here. Download the Program Guide to see how Boston University prepares you to lead with authority.