Paralegal Studies Certificate

Paralegal Studies

These undergraduate programs are offered for career enhancement and to assist individuals in meeting entry-level requirements. They are designed to provide students with a program of concentrated studies to enhance professional skills. Two-thirds of the credits required must be earned at Rockhurst University.

In 1974 Rockhurst began one of the first paralegal programs in the United States and has conferred more than 600 certificates. Courses are designed as preparation for paralegals, legal administrators, and others who work or plan to work in law offices, the court system, corporations, government agencies, bank trust departments, and insurance claim offices.

Carefully structured courses are taught by practicing attorneys and judges with expertise in specialized areas of law. Presentations by paralegal guest speakers illustrate and explain practical application skills. College graduates with specialized training in Paralegal Studies are projected to have promising career opportunities.

The certificate and minor are available in the evening through the Evening Program of the School of Graduate and Professional Studies.

Certificate in Paralegal Studies:

Students preparing for a paralegal career will be awarded a Certificate in Paralegal Studies after successfully completing PA 2000 , PA 3400 , PA 3600 , PA 4000 , and a minimum of six additional upper-division credit hours of paralegal elective courses. A grade of C or better is required in each course of the certificate. (A grade of C- will not satisfy the requirement.) Courses may be applied as electives toward a bachelor’s degree at Rockhurst University.

Admission to the program requires a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent. Students with previous college work should request that an official transcript be sent to the Office of Admission and Financial Aid.