Paralegal Studies Certificate

This 21 credit-hour certificate program is designed for those individuals who are currently employed or employable in the legal field or those who, because of legal experience, could benefit from these specialty options. The various choices available allow the student to develop special interests and skills.

To receive a certificate in Paralegal Studies, students must have earned an associate in applied science degree which includes general education courses equivalent to those required in Harper College's associate in applied science degree in paralegal studies, an associate in arts degree or a bachelor's degree. Verifications of the degree must be submitted before the certificate will be awarded.

Students who complete the 21 credit-hour certificate are eligible to use our computerized placement service and otherwise work as paralegals for a practicing attorney. Students should be aware that there are legal restrictions on the practice of law by laymen.

Students electing to earn a certificate in paralegal studies are eligible to apply credits earned toward completion of the associate in applied science degree.

Required:
PLS 101 Introduction to Paralegal Studies 3
PLS 102 Fundamentals of Legal Research 3
PLS 103 Litigation 3
Electives: Select at least 12 credit hours from the following courses, providing the combination has the approval of the coordinator or a Student Development faculty member.
CRJ 201 Criminal Law (1) or
CRJ 202 Criminal Procedures 3
PLS 105 Family Law 3
PLS 123 Real Property Law 3
PLS 200 Probate 3
PLS 201 Tort and Insurance Law 3
PLS 202 Estate Planning 3
PLS 203 Income Taxation I 3
PLS 204 Income Taxation II 3
PLS 205 Contract Law 3
PLS 208 Internship in Paralegal Studies 3
PLS 210 Corporate and Securities Law 3
PLS 212 Law Office Systems 3
PLS 220 Community Law 3
PLS 221 Bankruptcy Law 3
PLS 222 Intellectual Property 3
PLS 230 Topics in Paralegal Studies 3

  1. Students may take CRJ 201 or CRJ 202, but not both