Program Overview

Introduction to the Paralegal Certificate Program

The Paralegal Certificate Program at Old Dominion University provides a comprehensive legal education designed by practicing attorneys and judges. This program is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a paralegal in as few as four months.

Program Overview

The program covers key areas of law, including Tort Law, Contract Law, and Civil Procedures. Students will develop expertise in legal processes, court structure, client interviews, investigations, document preparation, the use of AI in the law, and legal research using Lexis +AI.

Course Structure

The program is offered in two delivery modes:

• Zoom delivery courses are offered during Spring and Fall terms.
• Self-paced delivery courses are offered monthly.

Zoom Delivery

• In-person instruction from judges and attorneys.
• Two evenings per week for four months.
• Extensive online study support.
• Successful graduates receive the Old Dominion University Paralegal Certificate.
• Courses are offered during Spring and Fall terms.

Self-Paced Delivery

• Go-at-your-own-pace format and enroll at anytime.
• Study online when it is convenient for you.
• Every student is assigned their own attorney/judge instructor.
• Students are provided with the instructor's contact information.
• Successful graduates receive the Old Dominion University Paralegal Certificate.
• Best for students who are able to be disciplined and focused.
• Courses are offered monthly.

Eligibility for ODU Undergraduate Credit

Students who are admitted and enrolled in an ODU undergraduate degree program are eligible for 8 CPD elective credits upon completion of this program.

Program Cost and Aid

• Zoom Delivery: $5,670
• Self-Paced Delivery: $7,670
• Includes tuition and books.

Refund Policy

To withdraw from this course, a request must be sent in writing seven days prior to the start date of the course. Failure to attend a course does not constitute withdrawal. Course registration fees, less a $100 processing fee, will be refunded back to the original form of payment. There are no refunds once the class has begun.

Careers in Paralegal

Our graduates pursue roles as paralegals, legal assistants, compliance specialists, and contract administrators, assisting attorneys with legal research, document preparation, and case management. Employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 10 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Paralegal Specialty Certificates

In today's ultra-competitive labor market, you need skills that will help you stand out amongst the crowd. With ODU's convenient, self-paced legal courses, you can advance your legal career in only a matter of months. ODU's Paralegal Specialty Certificates provide graduates the opportunity to concentrate on high-demand segments of the law that they are passionate about, such as:

• Bankruptcy Law
• Elder Law
• Health Care Law
• Immigration Law
• And more

Benefits of Paralegal Specialty Certificates

• Complete the online programs at your own pace, with no trips to campus required.
• Learn from a distinguished faculty of legal professionals.
• Earn a sought-after credential backed by a major research university.
• Convenient registration happens on an open-enrollment basis no application required.

Related Programs

The Paralegal Specialty Certificate is a related program that allows graduates to further specialize in their area of interest.