Paralegal Studies

Certificate Program

“The number of jobs for paralegals is expected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations through 2018. Law firms will hire more paralegals to help lawyers prepare their cases. More people and businesses will need legal help.”

- U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (March 19, 2010)

The American Bar Association (ABA)-approved California State University, East Bay Certificate in Paralegal Studies qualifies aspiring paralegals for entry-level positions in the field, whether in law offices, corporations, government agencies, or other organizations. Earning a certificate is also an excellent option for existing paralegals who seek to differentiate themselves, increase earning potential and meet or exceed the educational requirements dictated by California law.

San Francisco Bay Area legal professionals hold Cal State East Bay's Paralegal Certificate Program in high regard. Many graduates have become accomplished paralegals at some of the most prestigious law firms in the East Bay Area.

Students who take advantage of our ABA-approved program enjoy maximum convenience and flexibility. Classes are held in the evenings year-round, at all three Cal East Bay campuses (Hayward, downtown Oakland, and Concord). Students will also enjoy small class sizes, personal attention, job placement assistance, internship opportunities, and other benefits.

Paralegals cannot provide legal advice, except as directed by an attorney, nor can they establish a client/business relationship or represent a client in court.

Program Objectives

• To give graduates the educational foundation necessary for a successful career as a paralegal and to prepare them to work as paralegals in a variety of organizations.
• To provide graduates a way to meet the educational requirements for paralegals set forth by the State of California Business and Professions Code section 6450 et seq.
• To give graduates an understanding of the structure of the state and federal court systems.
• To give graduates professional legal research and writing skills and sharpen their skills in problem solving and analytical thinking.
• To provide graduates an understanding of civil lawsuits and give them the skills and confidence necessary to assist in the discovery and preparation of related legal documents.
• To assist graduates with securing employment in the paralegal field, foster their involvement in paralegal professional associations and provide them the knowledge and confidence necessary to meet the highest professional and ethical standards.

Who Should Attend

• Individuals interested working with attorneys in all areas of civil and criminal law as an entry-level paralegal.
• Individuals interested in becoming paralegals and desire to meet the educational requirements dictated by California law.
• Current paralegals who seek to differentiate themselves with an ABA-approved Paralegal Studies certificate, increase earning potential and meet or exceed the educational requirements dictated by California law.

Program Highlights