The day ABA-approved paralegal certificate program at the University of San Diego School of Law is ideal for the student who wishes to enter the legal profession quickly. Students have the flexibility to complete the requirements in one or two terms, choosing a pace that fits their lifestyles. Through classroom lectures, readings, and practical assignments, students earn the necessary skills to assist in the effective delivery of legal services and become familiar with the role of the paralegal in the legal environment. Graduates of the paralegal certificate program are sought-after candidates to work on legal teams under the supervision of attorneys. Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.
Program Outcomes
Earn an ABA approved paralegal certificate, meeting the requirements of Business & Professions Code §6450
Develop practical skills in preparation for a paralegal career
Acquire foundational knowledge in substantive areas of law necessary to perform work under the supervision of an attorney
Understand legal ethics and the role of the paralegal in the legal environment
Understand basic legal concepts and terminology and our court structure
Understand and practice the elements of legal research and analysis
Become familiar with and practice appropriate technology use in the legal environment
Core Courses
Minimum required: 4 courses
- PLST 500: Introduction to Law
- PLST 505: Legal Research and Writing
- PLST 510: Computers in the Legal Field
- PLST 551: Civil Litigation
Elective Courses
Minimum required: 4 courses
Schedule varies per term:
- PLST 521: Introduction to Business Entities
- PLST 525: Contracts
- PLST 526: Intellectual Property
- PLST 555: Family Law
- PLST 556: Real Estate
Strongly encouraged, may be replaced with an evening elective:
The USD Paralegal Certificate – Day Program requires students to complete 24 units over one or two terms. The Intensive Day Program is ideal for the student who wishes to enter the legal profession quickly. Students in the Intensive Day Program will complete 24 units in one term (4 months). The Extended Day Program allows students to complete the requirements at a slower pace, splitting the coursework over two terms. Students in the Extended Day Program will complete 12 units of core curriculum during the first term and 12 units of electives during the second term. USD does not transfer in paralegal credits from other institutions.
Previous Education – Applicants for the day certificate program must possess a baccalaureate degree from an accredited postsecondary institution to be considered for admission (no exceptions). Interested applicants who do not possess a baccalaureate degree may qualify for the evening program.
The Paralegal Program is open to domestic students who reside in a state in which USD is authorized to enroll students. Interested applicants located outside of San Diego County also should review the Prospective Students not in San Diego County information before beginning the application process.
International Education/English Proficiency – The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) (recommended minimum 92 or 4.5) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) (recommended minimum 7.0) or the Duolingo English Test (recommended minimum total score 120) is mandatory for all applicants educated outside the United States. The test can be waived if you have obtained a bachelor's degree from an institution where English is the official language of instruction. The Program is not authorized to facilitate visas of any kind.
Dates subject to change
| Term | Intensive Day (1 term) | Extended Day (2 terms) |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Sep 8 - Dec 10, 2026 | Sep 8, 2026 - Apr 16, 2027 |
| Spring 2027 | Jan 19 - Apr 16, 2027 | Jan 19 - Aug 25, 2027 |
| Summer 2027 | May 25 - Aug 25, 2027 | May 25 - Dec 9, 2027 |
| Fall 2027 | Sep 7 - Dec 9, 2027 | Sep 7, 2027 - Apr 12, 2028 |
Dates subject to change
| Start Term | Synchronous Online |
|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Sep 8 - Dec 10, 2026 (synchronous online) |
| Spring 2027 | Jan 19 - April 16, 2027 (synchronous online) |
| Summer 2027 | May 25 - Aug 25, 2027 (synchronous online) |
| Fall 2027 | Sep 7 - Dec 9, 2027 (synchronous online) |
| Spring 2028 | Jan 18 - April 12, 2028 (synchronous online) |
Paralegal Program tuition is $320 per semester unit. The program consists of 24 total units (12 core and 12 elective). View a course-by-course cost breakdown.