The evening ABA-approved paralegal certificate program at the University of San Diego School of Law is ideal for working professionals desiring to change or advance their careers. Students in the evening paralegal certificate program will complete the program in just under one year (three terms) while being afforded the flexibility to maintain other commitments. 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
The USD Paralegal Certificate - Evening Program is ideal for candidates who are working full time and are seeking a career change or advancement. Students in the evening program will complete 24 units in just under one year (three terms). USD does not transfer in paralegal credits from other institutions.
Previous Education – Applicants for the evening certificate program must possess a baccalaureate degree or an associate of arts or science degree from an accredited postsecondary institution.
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
| Start Term | Evening (3 terms) |
|---|---|
| Summer 2026 | May 26, 2026 - April 12, 2027 |
| Fall 2026 | Sep 8, 2026 - Aug 16, 2027 |
| Spring 2027 | Jan 19 - Dec 6, 2027 |
| Summer 2027 | May 25, 2027 - April 10, 2028 |
Dates subject to change
| Start Term | Synchronous Online |
|---|---|
| Summer 2026 | May 26 - Aug 17, 2026 (synchronous online) |
| Fall 2026 | Sep 8 - Dec 7, 2026 (synchronous online) |
| Spring 2027 | Jan 19 - Apr 12, 2027 (synchronous online) |
| Summer 2027 | May 25 - Aug 16, 2027 (synchronous online) |
| Fall 2027 | Sep 7 - Dec 6, 2027 (synchronous online) |
| Spring 2028 | Jan 18 - Apr 10, 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.
Info Sessions and Events
See below for an up-to-date list of upcoming events and info sessions about the USD Paralegal Program and RSVP today!