Program Overview

The Paralegal Studies Non-Credit Certificate program at James Madison University is designed for career changers with little to no legal experience and legal assistants seeking to augment their training and experience with a professional credential. The program is offered in a convenient online format, combining theoretical and practical aspects of law.

Program Details

• The program fee is $3,995, which includes all required course materials.
• The program consists of live, instructor-led online classes, meeting twice a week.
• The skills, training, and knowledge acquired in this program include an advanced understanding of legal procedures, ethics, and substantive law, as well as research, communication, and writing skills.

Courses

The Paralegal Studies Certificate program includes the following courses:

• Career Preparation: Provides up-and-coming paralegals with the tools they need to compete for jobs and includes an introduction to the paralegal profession and workforce.
• Introduction to Law: Offers an overview of the environment in which a paralegal works, including legal writing and citation, the operation of the court system, the role of government in the legal system, and the basics of attorney/paralegal ethics.
• Legal Research & Writing: Provides the foundation for finding legal authority, conducting legal analysis, and writing a basic legal memorandum.
• Civil Litigation: Prepares students to work in the context of civil litigation, covering both the Federal Rules of Civil Procedures and the Virginia Rules of Civil Procedure.
• Contract Law: Introduces the broad area of contract law, including the basics of contract law and the elements necessary to create a valid contract.

Admission Requirements

To ensure graduates are qualified for employment after earning a paralegal certificate, the program requires:

• The equivalent of two years of full-time professional work experience (does not need to be in the legal field) or an undergraduate degree.
• Access to the internet with a high-speed connection.
• Basic computer and word-processing skills.
• Non-native English speakers are recommended to have a TOEFL score of at least 250 on the computer-based exam or 100 on the internet-based exam.

Program Completion Requirements

• A minimum of 70% is required to pass each course.
• An overall average of 75% or higher and submission of a career portfolio are required to successfully earn the Paralegal Studies certificate.
• The program is approved for 6.2 CEUs.

Instructors

The program instructors are experienced legal professionals, including:

• Belinda Berling, a paralegal with over ten years of experience in various practice areas.
• Mark G. Bong, a member of the Virginia State Bar with broad experience in resolving criminal issues.
• Daniel Dovel, a practicing lawyer with experience in mass claims litigation.
• Steven M. Traubert, a graduate of the University of Notre Dame and the West Virginia University College of Law, with experience in multiple state and federal court settings.

Registration and Payment

• Registration closes the Friday prior to the class start date.
• Payment options include online registration with credit card, payment by check, and additional payment options such as private student lending and a Paralegal Payment Plan.

James Madison University

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Overview:

James Madison University (JMU) is a public research university located in Harrisonburg, Virginia. It is known for its strong academic programs, vibrant student life, and beautiful campus.

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Services Offered:

JMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Libraries, career planning services, tutoring, and academic advising.

Student Life:

Housing, dining, clubs and organizations, recreational activities, and student government.

Health and Wellness:

Campus health center, counseling services, and wellness programs.

Financial Aid:

Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

JMU boasts a vibrant and active student body with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

Living on Campus:

A variety of residence halls and apartment-style living options.

Clubs and Organizations:

Over 300 student organizations catering to diverse interests.

Spirit and Traditions:

Strong school spirit with numerous sporting events, concerts, and other campus traditions.

Harrisonburg:

A charming town with a thriving arts and culture scene, offering opportunities for exploration and entertainment.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in business, education, and the arts.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively and engaging campus environment with numerous opportunities for student involvement and personal growth.

Beautiful Campus:

A picturesque campus with modern facilities and a welcoming atmosphere.

Affordable Education:

JMU offers a relatively affordable education compared to other universities.

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Academic Programs:

JMU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Majors:

A diverse selection of majors across various disciplines, including business, education, engineering, health sciences, and the arts.

Graduate Programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, nursing, and public administration.

Research Opportunities:

Opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to engage in research projects with faculty mentors.

Study Abroad:

Programs to study abroad in various countries around the world.