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Program Overview

The Summer 2008 program is no longer accepting applications Next program starts: Summer 2009 Details will be posted in Winter Program location: Online Sign up to receive e-mail updates >> Contact a program representative >>

Participants in the online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program gain the knowledge and skills needed to enter the paralegal profession, which is rapidly growing. Taught by leading attorneys in the Puget Sound region, this intensive one-year program combines theory and practical fundamentals of legal practice.

Litigation support skills, essential for the entry-level paralegal, are emphasized in the program, which has been developed and approved by the UW School of Law. Participants earn 27 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) upon completion of the program.

How Online Learning Works

Classes in this certificate program are delivered online via the World Wide Web, which means you don't need to come to campus to earn your certificate: You can study from anywhere. To access your course materials, you'll simply log on to the Internet. You'll use e-mail and online discussion boards to communicate with your instructors and other students. Just like in a classroom course, in these "group-start" online courses, students begin each course at the same time and work through the coursework together. To participate, you'll need a computer with access to the Web (see technology requirements). After you are accepted and enrolled in a course, you will be mailed instructions on how to access your classes.

Qualities for Success through Online Learning

You should consider your learning style, strengths and preferences before enrolling in an online learning program. This format is especially appropriate if you are self-motivated, goal-oriented and work well independently. Some points to consider:

Are you comfortable following written instructions?
Courses in the online learning format rely on printed materials and written instructions rather than in-person explanations from your instructor. Consider whether you need face-to-face interaction. You will benefit from these courses if you are comfortable with learning through reading and communicating in writing. You should also have the ability to follow written instructions. The study guide for each course may include instructions to read textbooks, view videotapes, listen to audio tapes or participate in a teleconference and discussion session over the Internet.

Can you use technology?
Students taking the online learning format leave any questions they have in their instructor's voice mailbox, or e-mail these questions to their instructor. Most assignments are sent to instructors via the Internet, e-mail or fax. You should be comfortable using technology.

Are you self-motivated and disciplined?
Online learning saves commuting time, but these courses require at least as much time as attending classes and completing assignments for campus courses. Not having enough time to take campus classes is a poor reason for opting for an online learning course, unless you are prepared to create time for your study in a disciplined manner. Having a compelling reason to complete an online learning course can serve to motivate you and help you avoid diversions to your study.

Would you enjoy participating in a virtual learning community?
You may be studying in your living room, but you are not alone when you take an online learning course. With the help of a variety of technologies, you will be part of a large and diverse "virtual" community. You will exchange ideas and information with your instructors and other students, take part in online discussions and collaborative interaction for completing individual or team assignments.

Also Available in a Classroom Format

This program is also available in a classroom format.

Contact a Program Representative

If you have questions about this program, please call 206-685-8936 in the greater Seattle area, or 888-469-6499, or e-mail us.