Program Overview

Paralegal Studies Certificate Program

The Paralegal Studies Certificate Program at LSU is designed to provide students with the foundational legal knowledge and practical skills needed to excel in a law office. The program is structured to fit busy schedules, offering part-time and full-time enrollment options.

Why Choose LSU's Paralegal Studies Program?

• Fast-Track Completion: Earn your certificate in as little as one year.
• Expert Instruction: Learn from experienced paralegals, attorneys, and judges.
• Live-Online Format: Take evening classes remotely while maintaining a structured learning experience.
• Internship Opportunities: Gain real-world experience and enhance your resume.

Program Overview

The program is the only ABA-approved non-credit paralegal program in Louisiana, providing students with a prestigious credential that employers recognize. Designed for working professionals, this program equips students with essential legal skills through flexible evening courses and a live-online format.

Upon Completion of the Program

Upon completion of the program, students will be able to:

• Draft clear, effective legal memoranda and documents.
• Conduct legal research using primary and secondary resources.
• Interview clients and witnesses with professionalism.
• Analyze legal opinions and case law.
• Understand civil litigation procedures and business law concepts.
• Uphold the ethical responsibilities of a paralegal.

Program Options and Cost

• Full-Time Track: Complete in just one year (two semesters).
• Part-Time Track: Take two or more courses per semester at your own pace, completing the program around or under 2.5 years.
• Cost: Approximately $5,810 plus textbooks. Students pay per semester as they register for courses. Out-of-state students pay the same tuition - no added fees.
• Financial Aid: This program does not qualify for federal aid, but private loan options may be available.

Curriculum Overview

To earn the LSU Paralegal Certificate, students must take at least nine semester credits or the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction. Some electives are offered asynchronously. Applicants who have attended another ABA-approved paralegal studies program can transfer up to 10 credit hours or two non-credit paralegal legal specialty courses.

Core Courses

• Principles of Paralegal Studies: Introduction to the legal profession, legal ethics, legal research sources, and preparation of legal documents.
• Legal Research: Fundamentals of legal research, including primary and secondary sources, computer-assisted legal research, and analysis.
• Legal Case Analysis: Development of skills necessary to read and understand legal opinions, with emphasis on legal analysis and case law.
• Civil Litigation I: Overview of Louisiana civil procedural rules, including drafting pleadings, discovery documents, and assisting attorneys in trial preparation.
• Law Office Technology: Development of skills necessary to use software applications commonly used in law offices, including Microsoft Office, Adobe Acrobat, and timekeeping and billing software.
• The Practicing Paralegal: Instruction and practical experience in on-the-job paralegal duties, including summarizing depositions, producing and managing documents, and maintaining client files.
• Paralegal Internship: Valuable experience in a law office, government agency, court, or non-profit, requiring 150 hours of work at the internship site.
• Legal Ethics Seminar: Familiarization with the Louisiana State Bar Association Rules of Professional Conduct for Attorneys, including a paralegal's relationship with attorneys, clients, and law clerks.

Elective Courses

Students will choose two elective courses to customize their learning experience, with options updated regularly to reflect in-demand skills and emerging trends.

Internship and Career Opportunities

A 150-hour supervised internship provides students with hands-on experience in a law office or government agency. Graduates are prepared for careers in:

• Law Firms
• Government Agencies
• Corporate Legal Departments
• Real Estate and Trust Departments
• Contract Administration

Admission Requirements

• Bachelor's Degree: From an accredited institution with a minimum 2.5 overall GPA and a 2.5 GPA in English courses.
• 45 College Credit Hours: Including at least 18 general education credits, a 2.5 overall GPA, and a 2.5 GPA in English courses.
• Exceptional Admission: Applicants with three years of legal experience may qualify with additional documentation.
• Application Fee: $40
• Transcripts: Official copies required
• Personal Statement: Required

Application Deadlines

• Spring 2026 Cohort: Apply by January 4, 2026, with classes beginning January 26, 2026.