Paralegal Studies - Classroom
FAQ
How often do you offer this program?
The Duke Paralegal Certificate Program is offered twice a year, each fall and spring, in both Durham and Charlotte. We also offer a six-week Summer Intensive version of the Durham program each May. Click here to read more about the Summer Intensive Program (link).
Do you have a registration deadline?
Typically we open registration a few months prior to the start of the program and accept registration forms up until either the program is full or the program begins. You can find a registration form and contact information for the registration office on the registration link. (hyperlink the word “registration” to our registration classroom page)
What are the prerequisites to enroll in the program?
Students must have either an associate’s or bachelor’s degree, in any field, in order to take the Duke Paralegal Certificate Program. A copy of the student’s official transcript must be mailed to the registration office as a part of the registration process. As well, students must have Internet access, word processing skills, and other basic computer skills (e.g. ability to attach a document, manipulate a form, etc.) in order to take the program. There are no experience requirements and students are not expected to have a legal background.
Do I have to pay tuition all at once?
You may pay tuition all at once, or utilize our three-part payment plan: $1800 upon registration, $1800 six weeks into the program, $1795 ten weeks into the program.
Is financial aid available?
We have a number of different options available for funding. Students may apply for a Continuing Education student loan. As well, the program is approved for VA funding and funding through the Workforce Investment Act. We have more information about these options, as well as contacts for these alternative funding sources on our website. (link “website” to payment options page)
Can I apply for federal funding or FAFSA?
No. The Duke Paralegal Certificate Program is non-credit (not applicable toward a degree) and therefore NOT eligible for federal education loans. Please do not submit FAFSA forms for this program.
Can I use this program for university credit elsewhere?
No. The Duke Paralegal Certificate Program is a professional non-credit program, which will award you a post-baccalaureate certificate. There are no college credits associated with this certificate program.
How long has this program been in existence?
The Duke Paralegal Certificate Program is a well-established program that started in the fall of 2003 in Durham and fall of 2005 in Charlotte. Since that time, we have been offering a high-quality program that trains students for careers in the paralegal profession.
Who are your instructors?
All of our instructors are licensed attorneys who practice law in North Carolina and have teaching experience. We have an excellent group of instructors who are committed to student success and to sharing their knowledge and love of the law with students. You can read more about our instructors on the faculty page. (hyperlink “faculty page” to the instructor page)
Can I take individual classes?
While we do not allow students to enroll in portions of the Duke Paralegal Certificate Program, we do offer individual Continuing Paralegal Education (CPE) classes that are open to the public. Check our website for updates on new course offerings, prices, and instructor biographies. (hyperlink “website” to main CPE page)
Is your program NC State Bar Approved?
Yes. Our classroom-based program is approved by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Paralegal Certification. Upon completion of the Duke Paralegal Program, students will be eligible to take the NC State Bar Paralegal Certification exam. This exam allows paralegals to use the designation NCCP or North Carolina Certified Paralegal. Students are responsible for submitting all application materials, if they wish to take the exam. The Duke Paralegal Program will provide transcripts for the exam upon request.
The difference in admission requirements between the Duke classroom-based and the online-based program is due to the NC Bar Association paralegal program qualification process and is not indicative of one program being superior to another. NC paralegal certificate programs approved by the NC Bar Association, such as Duke's classroom-based program, must adhere to the guidelines set by the NC Bar: to only admit candidates with either an Associate's Degree or a Bachelor's Degree. NC based online paralegal programs are not eligible for program qualification approval by the NC Bar Association. Further information on the NC Program qualification process, the voluntary state exam and its implications for paralegal students who reside in North Carolina can be found at http://www.nccertifiedparalegal.gov/.
Is your program ABA approved?
The Duke Paralegal Certificate Program has chosen not to pursue ABA approval, as is the case with the majority of paralegal programs. Of the approximately 1,000 paralegal programs nationwide, only 260 are ABA approved. The ABA does not formally “accredit” any paralegal program, but for a fee, the organization will approve programs that meet certain standards. We feel strongly that the reputation of the institution attended by the paralegal is more determinative in the job market than ABA approval. Duke University is ranked in the top ten in the nation, and students can be assured that when attending the Paralegal Program at Duke, they will be receiving an education that meets Duke’s high academic standards.
Do you have job placement services?
While we do not offer job placement, we can assure you that our program will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to work as a highly trained paralegal. We offer our students an Employment Strategies Seminar with an academic career counselor and invite graduates of the program to come in and speak. In addition, the program director sends out job postings to all graduates of the program for as long as they want to receive them. While we do our best to prepare students for the job market, it is ultimately incumbent upon students to find their own employment upon completion of the program.
Why choose the Duke Paralegal Program?
Read what graduates of the program have to say about it! (link to testimonials page)