Have you ever dreamed of a career in law but didn’t want to spend the time and money going to law school? If so, then you may want to consider becoming a paralegal. Paralegals are the unsung heroes of the legal world, performing many of the same tasks as lawyers but without needing a law degree.
And thanks to the internet, you can now get a paralegal education online without ever having to set foot in a classroom.
This article will discuss 15 of the best paralegal courses online with certification in 2024. These programs are all accredited and offer a comprehensive education in paralegal studies.
They also have flexible online learning platforms that make it easy to fit your studies into your busy schedule.
So whether you’re just starting out in your paralegal career or you’re looking to advance your skills, one of these programs is sure to be a great fit for you. And who knows, you may even find yourself arguing a case before the Supreme Court one day!”
Is It Worth It to Take a Paralegal Course Online?
Whether or not it is worth it to take a paralegal course online depends on your circumstances, goals, and personal decision.
However, here are some additional factors to consider when making your decision:
- Your learning style: An online paralegal program may be a good fit if you are a self-directed learner who prefers to work independently. However, you may consider a traditional on-campus program if you prefer a more structured learning environment with more interaction with classmates and instructors.
- Your career goals: If you want to work in a specific area of law, such as criminal law or family law, then you may choose an online paralegal program offering specialization.
- Your budget: Online paralegal programs can vary in price, so it is important to compare costs before deciding. You may also consider financial aid options if you need help paying for your education.
Check out these 11 best Harvard free online courses- 11 Harvard Free Online Courses for You.
What are the Requirements for Taking a Paralegal Course Online With a Certificate?
The requirements for taking a paralegal course online with a certificate vary depending on the school or program, but some common requirements include:
- A high school diploma or equivalent
- A minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher
- Proof of computer proficiency (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- A resume or CV
- Letters of recommendation
- Transcripts from previous college or university coursework (if applicable)
How Long Does It Take to Finish a Paralegal Course Online?
The time it takes to finish a paralegal course online can vary depending on the program, the student’s prior experience, and the student’s commitment to the coursework. However, online paralegal certificate programs typically take six months to 1 year to complete.
These programs are designed for students who want to learn the basics of paralegal work and enter the workforce quickly.
What are the Best Platforms That Offer the Best Paralegal Courses Online in 2024
Udemy, edX, Coursera, and Alison are four popular online learning platforms offering paralegal courses. Each platform has strengths and weaknesses, so comparing them carefully before choosing one is important.
Udemy is a massive open online course (MOOC) platform that offers various courses on various topics, including paralegal studies. Udemy is a great option for paralegals who want to learn specific skills or topics, such as legal research, writing, or depositions.
edX is another MOOC platform that offers paralegal courses from top universities worldwide. edX courses are a great option for paralegals who want to earn a recognized credential and gain the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the field.
Coursera is a platform similar to edX, but it offers a wider variety of courses from various institutions. Coursera is a great option for paralegals who want to learn from the best and gain a recognized credential.
Alison is a free online learning platform that offers paralegal courses from various instructors. They are a great option for paralegals looking to learn the basics of paralegal studies at no cost.
Check out these ten best online courses at Oxford University- Top 10 Best Online Courses at Oxford University.
Which Universities Provide the Best Paralegal Courses Online With Certification?
Many great universities offer online paralegal courses with certification. Here are a few of the best:
- UC Berkeley Extension
- George Mason University
- University of Massachusetts Lowell
- Thomas Jefferson School of Law
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Harvard University
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Denver Sturm College of Law
- Yale University
15 Best Paralegal Courses Online with Certification in 2024
These selected courses are considered the best paralegal courses online because of their flexibility, affordability, quality, convenience, and networking opportunities. They include:
1. Legal Research and Writing for Paralegals
- Platform: Udemy
- Institution: None
- Level: Beginner
- Time: 5 hours
- Language: English
- Subtitles: Spanish, French, and Portuguese
This course covers the essential skills paralegals need to know to conduct legal research and write legal documents. It covers topics such as finding and evaluating legal sources, drafting legal memoranda, and writing persuasive briefs.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- The legal research process
- Primary and secondary legal sources
- Legal citation
- Legal writing style
- Legal drafting
- Case analysis
- Factual analysis
- Ethical considerations
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
This course is designed for people interested in becoming a paralegal or wanting to improve their legal research and writing skills.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- The legal research process includes how to find primary and secondary legal sources, how to evaluate the credibility of sources, and how to cite sources properly.
- Legal writing style, including how to write clear, concise, and persuasive legal documents.
- Legal drafting, including how to draft pleadings, motions, and other legal documents.
- Case analysis, including how to read and understand case law, etc.
2. Paralegal Power Breaks
- Platform: Udemy
- Institution: None
- Level: Beginner to Advanced
- Time: 3.5 hours
- Language: English
- Subtitles: Spanish, French, and Portuguese.
The Paralegal Power Breaks course on Udemy is a great resource for paralegals of all experience levels. The course is divided into 10-15 minute sessions covering various topics related to the paralegal profession. Experienced paralegal instructor Laura Stack teaches the course.
The Paralegal Power Breaks course is a great way to learn new skills, improve your existing skills, and stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the paralegal profession.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- Office politics
- Paralegal career advancement tips
- Paralegal skills assessment
- Legal research
- Legal technology
- Civil litigation
- Intellectual property law
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
The course is ideal for entry-level to seasoned paralegals who want to learn new concepts, improve on various legal processes, and interact with other paralegals in different locations.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- The basics of the paralegal career include the role of paralegals in the legal field, the different types of paralegal jobs, and how to get a job as a paralegal.
- Important paralegal skills include legal research and writing, civil litigation, intellectual property law, etc.
- How to stay up-to-date on the latest legal trends and how to network with other paralegals.
3. LegalTech & Legal Software – A Paralegal Skills Course
- Platform: Udemy
- Institution: None
- Level: Intermediate
- Time: 7 hours of on-demand video
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English
The LegalTech & Legal Software – A Paralegal Skills Course on Udemy is a comprehensive course that covers the essential legal technology tools and software that paralegals need to know.
The course is taught by experienced paralegal and legal technology expert Emily Burke, who provides clear and concise instruction on various topics. The course also includes several hands-on exercises that allow students to practice using different legal technology tools.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- Legal research and e-discovery
- Document automation
- Case management
- Time tracking
- Billing
- Client relationship management (CRM)
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Blockchain
- Smart contracts
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
This online paralegal course is for anyone who wants to learn about the latest legal technology and software.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- The basics of legal technology, including what it is, how it works, and how it can benefit paralegals.
- The different legal technology types include case management software, document automation software, and e-discovery software.
- Use legal technology to improve your paralegal skills, such as legal research, writing, and drafting.
- How to choose the right legal technology for your needs.
4. What is a Paralegal? Fast Introductory Course for Beginners
- Platform: Udemy
- Institution: None
- Level: Beginners
- Time: 2 hours of on-demand video
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English
The course “What is a Paralegal? Fast Introductory Course for Beginners” on Udemy is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of the paralegal profession. It is suitable for those who have little to no knowledge of the legal system and what paralegals do.
The course is taught by an experienced paralegal who creatively illustrates the material and makes it engaging. You will also have the opportunity to participate in a virtual shadowing module where you can see what a day in the life of a paralegal is like.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- The role of paralegals in the legal system
- The skills and abilities required to be a paralegal
- The different types of paralegal jobs
- The education and training requirements for paralegals
- The career outlook for paralegals
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
The course is designed for those with little to no knowledge of the legal system and what paralegals do and who want to learn more about this line of work.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- What is a paralegal, and what do they do?
- The different types of law that paralegals work in
- The paralegal’s role in the legal system
- The ethical obligations of paralegals
- The different ways to become a paralegal
- The different career paths that are available to paralegals
5. Compliance in Office 365: eDiscovery
- Platform: Udemy
- Institution: None
- Level: Intermediate
- Time: 6 weeks, 10 hours per week
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English
The course Compliance in Office 365: eDiscovery on edX is designed to teach you how to plan, implement, and manage eDiscovery in your organization. As organizational data stored in email and documents continues to grow, Office 365 makes it easy to find relevant information as you need it.
This course covers all the steps to plan and manage discovery requests effectively. A team of experienced eDiscovery professionals from Microsoft teaches the course.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- The discovery architecture of Office 365
- Planning eDiscovery activities
- Implementing eDiscovery features of Office 365
- Using eDiscovery to find information in your organization
- Troubleshooting typical eDiscovery issues in Office 365
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
This course is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn how to use eDiscovery to comply with regulations and protect their organization’s data. It is also a good starting point for those wanting to learn more about eDiscovery and its use in various settings.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- You will learn about the eDiscovery features of Office 365.
- You will learn how to plan and implement eDiscovery activities.
- You will learn how to use eDiscovery to find information in your organization.
- You will learn how to troubleshoot typical eDiscovery issues in Office 365.
6. Contract Law: From Trust to Promise to Contract
- Platform: edX
- Institution: Harvard Law School
- Level: Intermediate
- Time: 10 weeks, 6-10 hours per week
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English, Chinese (Simplified), French, German, Spanish
This is a Paralegal Course Online from Harvard Law School. This course covers the basics of contract law, from forming a contract to its enforcement. Students will learn about the elements of a valid contract, the different types of contracts, and the remedies available to parties who breach a contract.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- What is a contract?
- The elements of a contract
- The different types of contracts
- The enforceability of contracts
- The defenses to breach of contract
- Remedies for breach of contract
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
This course is for anyone interested in learning more about the paralegal profession.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- You will learn about the basics of contract law.
- You will be able to identify the elements of a contract.
- You will be able to distinguish between the different types of contracts.
- You will understand the enforceability of contracts.
- You will be familiar with the defenses to breach of contract.
- You will know the remedies for a breach.
7. International Law
- Platform: edX
- Institution: Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain)
- Level: Advanced
- Time: 12 weeks, 6-8 hours per week
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English
This is a Paralegal Course Online from the Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain). This course introduces international law, covering topics such as the sources of international law, the Law of treaties, and the Law of war. Students will learn about how international law is made and enforced and how it affects individuals and businesses worldwide.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- The sources of international law
- The role of international organizations
- The law of treaties
- State responsibility
- Human rights
- The settlement of international disputes
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
This course is for anyone who wants to learn about the principles and practices of international law.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- How and by whom international law is created, who must obey it, and how it is applied
- What happens when binding norms are broken, and how may justice be sought in this world?
8. International Human Rights Law
- Platform: edX
- Institution: Université catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain)
- Level: Intermediate
- Time: 6 weeks, 6-10 hours per week
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English, French, Spanish
The International Human Rights Law course on edX is offered by the Université Catholique de Louvain (UCLouvain). It is part of the International Law MicroMasters program, including courses on international law, international humanitarian law, and international investment law.
It also discusses some of our time’s most pressing human rights issues, such as climate change, migration, and gender equality.
Professor Catherine Brölmann, a leading expert on international law, teaches the course.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- The history of international human rights law
- The major human rights treaties
- The mechanisms for enforcing human rights
- The most pressing human rights issues of our time
- The role of non-governmental organizations in promoting human rights
- The relationship between human rights and international humanitarian law
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
This course is for anyone who wants to learn about international human rights law principles and practices.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- You will learn about the principles and practices of international human rights law from experts in the field.
- You will understand international human rights law comprehensively, from its history to its contemporary challenges.
- You will be able to apply your knowledge of international human rights law to real-world cases and scenarios.
9. Introduction to Paralegal Studies from the University of Denver Sturm College of Law.
- Platform: Coursera
- Institution: University of Denver Sturm College of Law
- Level: Beginner
- Time: 4 weeks, 4-6 hours per week
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English
This course provides a comprehensive overview of the paralegal profession, including the history of paralegals, the different types of paralegal jobs, and the skills and knowledge required for a successful career as a paralegal.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- Introduction to the paralegal profession
- The legal system
- Legal research and writing
- Interviewing and Investigation
- Drafting legal documents
- Working with clients
- Ethics and professionalism
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
This Online Course is designed for anyone interested in learning more about the paralegal profession. The course is perfect for students considering a career in paralegal studies and for professionals who want to learn more about the legal field.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- The structure of the legal system
- The different types of law
- Legal research and writing
- Interviewing and Investigation
- Drafting legal documents
- Working with clients
- Ethics and professionalism
10. An Introduction to American Law
- Platform: Coursera
- Institution: University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School
- Level: Beginner
- Time: 7 weeks,1 hour per week
- Language: English
- Subtitles: Arabic, French, Portuguese, Italian, German, Russian, Spanish
This paralegal course online is a free course offered by the University of Pennsylvania on Coursera. Professor Theodore Ruger and Professor Shyam Balganesh, both experts in American Law, teach the course. The course is designed to give students a basic understanding of the major areas of American Law. It is not a comprehensive law school course, but it will give students a foundation in legal concepts and terminology.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- Introduction to Law
- Tort Law
- Contract Law
- Property Law
- Constitutional Law
- Criminal Law
- Civil Procedure
- Legal Reasoning
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
This course is a great option for students interested in learning more about the American legal system.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- The history and development of American Law
- The structure of the American legal system
- The role of paralegals in the legal profession
- The major areas of American Law, such as tort law, contract law, property law, constitutional Law, Criminal Law, and civil procedure
- The legal principles that govern these areas of law
- How to conduct legal research and analysis
11. American Contract Law I
- Platform: Coursera
- Institution: Yale University
- Level: Beginner
- Time: 3 weeks, 10 hours a week
- Language: English
- Subtitles: Arabic, German, Portuguese (European), Vietnamese, Russian, English, Italian, French, Spanish
American Contract Law I is a course offered on Coursera by Yale University. Ian Ayres, a leading expert in contract law, teach it. The course provides a comprehensive overview of contract law in the United States.
It covers most key concepts in a first-year law school class, including offer and acceptance, consideration, capacity, legality, mistake, fraud, coercion, and unconscionability. Each lecture is based on one or more common-law cases, integrating legal doctrines with policy discussions.
The course also covers key sections from the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), which governs the sale of goods.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- Consideration and its substitute the consideration doctrine I
- Consideration and its substitute the consideration Doctrine II
- The bargaining relationship I
- The bargaining relationship II
- The bargaining relationship III
- The bargain relationship IV
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
The course is designed for anyone who wants to learn about contract law, regardless of their prior legal experience.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- What is a contract?
- What are the elements of a valid contract?
- What are the different types of contracts?
- What are the defenses to contract enforcement?
- What are the remedies for breach of contract?
- How does the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) affect contract law?
12. American Contract Law II
- Platform: Coursera
- Institution: Yale University
- Level: Beginner
- Time: 3 weeks, 12 hours a week
- Language: English
- Subtitles: Portuguese (European), Russian, English, French, Spanish
American Contract Law II is a course offered on Coursera by Yale Law School. The second part of a two-course sequence provides a comprehensive overview of contract law in the United States.
The course covers most key concepts in a first-year law school class. Each lecture in the course is based on one or more common-law cases, integrating legal doctrines with policy discussions. The course also covers key sections from the UCC, which governs the sale of goods.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- Special controls on promissory liability- Formation defenses I
- Special controls on promissory liability- Formation defenses II
- Contract performance I
- Contract performance II
- Remedies I
- Remedies II
- Third-Party Interests
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
It is designed for learners interested in understanding contract law and its application to real-world problems.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- Understand the basic principles of contract law
- Apply those principles to real-world scenarios
- Analyze and evaluate contract law cases
- Draft and negotiate contracts
- Represent clients in contract disputes
13. Paralegal Ethics and Professional Responsibility
- Platform: Alison
- Institution: None
- Level: Intermediate
- Time: 5 hours
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English
This course covers the ethical and professional responsibilities of paralegals. Topics include the American Bar Association Model Code of Professional Responsibility, the NALA Code of Ethics, and the importance of confidentiality and conflict of interest.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- The history of legal ethics
- The ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct
- The ethical duties of paralegals
- Conflicts of interest
- Confidentiality
- Solicitation of clients
- Communication with the opposing party
- Expert witnesses
- The role of paralegals in the legal system
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
The Paralegal Ethics and Professional Responsibility course on Alison is for anyone interested in learning about the ethical standards that govern paralegals.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
- You will learn the history of legal ethics and how the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct developed.
- You will learn about the ethical duties of paralegals, such as confidentiality and the duty to uphold the law.
- You will learn how to identify and avoid conflicts of interest.
- You will learn how to handle confidential information properly.
- You will learn how to communicate with the opposing party ethically, etc.
14. Comprehensive Course Paralegal Studies
- Platform: Alison
- Institution: None
- Level: Beginner
- Time: 3-4 hours
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English
This free course provides a comprehensive introduction to the paralegal profession, covering topics such as the history of paralegals, the role of paralegals in the legal system, legal research and writing, and ethics and professional responsibility.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- The role of paralegals in the legal system
- Key legal terms and concepts
- Effective communication skills
- The UK legal system
- Business, property, estate, and criminal law
- Family law, civil court proceedings, bankruptcy, insurance, and personal injury claims
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
The Comprehensive Course Paralegal Studies is a great option for anyone interested in a law career but who does not want to go to law school.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
By the end of the course, you will have a strong understanding of the paralegal profession and the skills and knowledge you need to be successful in this field.
15. Paralegal Studies: Criminal Law
- Platform: Alison
- Institution: None
- Level: Intermediate
- Time:10 hours
- Language: English
- Subtitles: English
This course covers the basics of criminal law, including the different types of crimes, the criminal justice system, and the role of paralegals in criminal law cases.
Online Paralegal Course to Take
- The history of criminal law in the UK
- The different types of criminal offenses
- The legal principles that govern criminal trials
- The role of paralegals in criminal law cases
- The different types of paralegal work in criminal law.
Who is This Online Paralegal Course For?
The course is designed for anyone interested in a career in criminal law or wanting to learn more about the criminal justice system. It is also a good course for those already working in the legal field and wanting to develop their criminal law knowledge.
What You’ll Learn From This Online Paralegal Course
At the end of the course, learners will be able to:
- Understand the basics of criminal law
- Identify the different types of criminal offenses
- Explain the legal principles that govern criminal trials
- Describe the role of paralegals in criminal law cases
- Identify the different types of paralegal work in criminal law
Frequently Asked Questions
A paralegal is a legal professional who assists lawyers with their work. Paralegals perform a variety of tasks, such as conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, and interviewing witnesses.
There are many benefits to becoming a paralegal. Paralegals earn a good salary, have job security, and can work in various settings.
The job prospects for paralegals are excellent. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of paralegals and legal assistants will grow 15 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.
The salary ranges for paralegals vary depending on experience, education, and location. However, the median annual salary for paralegals was $51,740 in 2020.
Conclusion
The legal field is rapidly growing and evolving, and paralegals are in high demand. If you’re interested in a career in law but don’t want to spend the time and money to get a law degree, becoming a paralegal is a great option.
With an online paralegal certificate, you can gain the skills and knowledge you need to start a successful career in law.
References
Forbes.com– Best Online Paralegal Degrees Of 2023
Bestvalueschools.org– The 15 Best Online Paralegal Certificate Programs in 2023-2024