![Banner image for certificate](/-/media/Site/Pro/Banner-images/New-Paralegal-1800.jpg)
Paralegal Studies Certificate
Program Fast Facts
- Start date: August 17, 2024
- Saturdays
9 a.m. – 4 p.m. - On Campus
- 6 months
- 5,495 Priority Tuition (expires 8/2/24)
$5,745 Standard Tuition
Next program starts August 17, 2024
Paralegal Studies Certificate
SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate program.
Essential to the practice of law, the paralegal profession is expected to grow 10% by 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate program covers a comprehensive curriculum of 129 hours. Through content designed by practicing attorneys and paralegals, you will gain substantive foundational legal knowledge and practical experience. Includes modules in legal technology and career planning will help you prepare for success the industry.
Upcoming Start Dates
August 17
Saturdays
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
On campus
October 21
Mondays & Wednesdays
6 – 9 p.m.
Live online
February 15
Saturdays
9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Live online
June TBD
Tuesdays & Thursdays
6 – 9 p.m.
On campus
Why Paralegal Studies at SMU?
![Distinguished faculty and highly experienced practitioners](/-/media/Site/GO-PRO/inner-pages/pro-you/Icon2.png?h=120&iar=0&w=120&sc_lang=en&hash=A5599949C047B9C116274B0AFC865E1F)
Learn from Legal Experts
Instructors are practicing attorneys and paralegals who share diverse perspectives and real-world examples in class.
![SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate badge image](/-/media/Site/CAPE/,-w-,Files---New-CAPE/Images/CAPE_Paralegal_Badge600.png?h=120&iar=0&w=120&hash=AC558FF0B2789C6AF00A8398D1B89785)
Highlight Your Accomplishment
Complete your certificate and earn a digital badge to add to your resume and LinkedIn profile.
![Acquire the in-demand skills](/-/media/Site/GO-PRO/inner-pages/pro-you/Icon4.png?h=120&iar=0&w=120&sc_lang=en&hash=CD1B51AC4FAEC20CAE0A65987795D66E)
Demonstrate your knowledge and skills
Program graduates have been hired by Dallas’ top legal firms who recognize and trust SMU’s commitment to excellence.
![SMU’s global alumni organization](/-/media/Site/GO-PRO/inner-pages/pro-you/Icon6.png?h=120&iar=0&w=120&sc_lang=en&hash=1C0D96E4EC07A51E67545C6FFA163BFB)
Build your Professional Network
With instructors as guides, students progress through the program with the same group of peers from class-to-class.
Video
Paralegal Studies Certificate Program
Hear from instructors and students about the career benefits of the SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate program.
![Emilie Taos](/-/media/Site/CAPE/,-w-,Files---New-CAPE/Images/Emilie-Taos-Headshot-4x5.jpg)
Student Success
"I'm more marketable now as an executive assistant with a paralegal certificate."
— Emilie Beavers, SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate student