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100% Online Paralegal Studies Certificate

The only ABA-approved non-credit paralegal certificate in Louisiana.

BENEFITS

Why the LSU Paralegal Studies Certificate?

American Bar Association Approved

Finish in One Year

Internship Opportunity

Full-time students can finish in as little as one year.

The optional internship course helps you put your skills to use in a law setting.

This program is the only ABA-approved non-credit paralegal certificate in Louisiana.

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Start Class

Next Start Date

Aug 11, 2025

Aug 25, 2025

Paralegal Studies Certificate

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Choose Your Pace

Full-Time and Part-Time options available.

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Expert Instructors

All teachers are experienced lawyers or paralegals with extensive experience in the classroom and working with paralegals.

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Flexible Format

Live-online evening classes are designed to make the program easier to fit into your life.

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Affordable Program

The total cost of the paralegal studies certificate is $5,810.

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Prepare for Law School

This certificate is perfect for those considering law school later.

QUICK FACTS

Paralegal Studies Certificate

APPLICATION FEE
TOTAL COST
FULL TIME PROGRAM
PART TIME PROGRAM

Students take five classes for two regular semesters.

Students may take two classes a semester, but may take up to four classes a semester to complete the program in a shorter time.

*

$40

$5,810

*Prices are subject to change. Cost does not include the price of textbooks.

ABOUT

A Comprehensive Flexible Program for Working Professionals

Are you looking for an all-in-one training program to jumpstart your legal career?

The Paralegal Studies Certificate program from LSU is for you! Whether you're a new college graduate or seeking a career change, this well-established program provides the expertise needed to begin your legal career quickly.

You'll learn from experienced law professionals and develop skills in legal research, writing, analysis, and more. With live-online evening classes, you can fit this flexible program around your schedule. The program also includes an optional internship course that offers hands-on experience in a real law setting. After graduating, you'll earn a Certificate of Paralegal Studies, opening doors to jobs in law firms, corporations, and government agencies.

The Paralegal Studies Certificate Program is the only non-credit paralegal program in Louisiana approved by the American Bar Association. 

ABA Approved Paralegal Program
QUALIFICATIONS

Admission Requirement Highlights

Admission Requirement Highlights

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution

or

45 semester hours college credit from an accredited institution

with

Admission requirements for the LSU Paralegal Studies Certificate online program include the following:

Minimum 2.5 overall GPA

What Will I Learn?

The LSU Paralegal Studies Certificate is a college-level, non-credit program. Upon completing the program, you will be able to: 

Write clear, effective legal memoranda, using proper citation form.

Explain the structure of both state and federal judicial systems. 

Analyze reported legal opinions. 

Interview clients and witnesses. 

Articulate the ethical standards of the paralegal profession. 

Describe basic concepts of business organizations and contract law.

Research legal problems using primary and secondary resources. 

Recognize the procedure in a civil suit and draft appropriate pleadings. 

Paralegals must work under the supervision of an attorney and are not allowed to give independent legal advice, represent clients in court, or settle claims on behalf of clients. Paralegals who do so may be charged with the crime of unauthorized practice of law.

Students must take at least nine semester credits or the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction.

CAREER OUTLOOK

Job Trends & Salaries

Median Annual Wages

Paralegal Careers

$60,970

$98,830

Law Office Paralegal

Public/Government Paralegal

Corporation Paralegal

Trust Department Paralegal

Real Estate Paralegal


Law Office Manager

Freelance Paralegal

Paralegal Supervisor

Legal Aid Office Paralegal

Contract Administrator


for paralegals and legal assistants in May 20231

for highest paid 10% of paralegals and legal assistants in May 20231

Built-in Internship

The LSU Paralegal Studies Certificate program features an optional built-in internship opportunity. During the internship, students work as paralegals in a local law office, government agency, or corporation. Students complete the internship in their final semester of the program.

DON'T JUST TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT

Hear From a Student

Johanna Fini, J.D.

Used Paralegal Studies Certificate from LSU OCE as a stepping stone to a law degree

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

You Might Be Wondering

Does the program tuition cost include textbooks?

No, the tuition cost does not include the price of textbooks.

Does this program qualify for financial aid?

The Paralegal Studies Program does not qualify for federal financial aid or Pell Grants; however, students may apply for a Sallie Mae Smart Option Student Loan or a continuing education loan through banking institutions such as Campus Federal Credit Union.

Will I need to pay the full tuition all at once?

No. The program is semester-based, so you pay as you register for courses.

How are courses structured?

All courses are online, with the majority being live-online and a select few offered asynchronously. The optional internship course meets as a class at noon four times throughout the semester. We do not offer weekend classes.

What is the difference between live-online learning and asynchronous learning?

Live-online learning refers to a format where classes are conducted in real-time over the internet using tools like Zoom. Students attend scheduled class sessions at specific times, just as they would in a traditional classroom, but they join the class virtually from their own locations. 
Asynchronous learning lets students complete coursework on their own schedule, as long as they meet deadlines within a given time frame. They don't need to be online at specific times but must follow the overall course schedule.

What are some other benefits of choosing this program?

This program offers the best of both worlds: the resources of the state’s largest university and the personal attention of a small, student-friendly program.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Contact Alanna Clanton at aclant1@lsu.edu or 225-578-6760.

Get More Information

APPLY TODAY

Talk to an Enrollment Coach

Enrollment Coaches are happy to answer any questions you have about LSU Online & Continuing Education programs. As part of your dedicated student support team, we're here for you from application to graduation. Let us help you take the first step toward advancing your educational goals. 

The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and is subject to change without notice. While we strive to use reputable sources, we do not control the content provided by third parties. Visit ce.lsu.edu or online.lsu.edu for more information. Complete degree program admission requirements are not listed on this page. Alternative requirements may be applied depending on your personal situation. All programs of the LSU system are accredited under the institution’s accreditation (A&M, Shreveport, Alexandria, Eunice, HSC-NOLA, H-Shreveport). Visit online.lsu.edu for more information.

1Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

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