Paralegal: Certification Programs

“"The UC Davis program absolutely gave me a competitive edge and allowed me to command a higher salary than I had as an un-certified legal assistant." — Rachel Eckhardt” UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education

: These are the "gold standard" for employability. The American Bar Association (ABA) conducts rigorous on-site evaluations to ensure students learn essential workforce skills like litigation, legal research, and ethics. paralegal certification programs

: Online programs offer flexibility and lower costs but may lack the in-person networking found in campus-based programs. “"The UC Davis program absolutely gave me a

: Programs like NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) are highly respected across the U.S. and are acknowledged by over 47 paralegal organizations as a definitive credential. : Programs like NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) are

: Ensure the program covers litigation/civil procedure , legal writing , and legal ethics to align with National Federation of Paralegal Associations standards. Student Perspectives

: While many online degrees are respected , some employers still favor the reputation of traditional on-campus programs.

: While more expensive and time-consuming, a Paralegal Bachelor's Degree can provide a broader educational foundation and better setup for law school. Certificates are typically faster and ideal for those wanting to enter the field without a large commitment. Key Considerations for Your Choice