Paralegal Certificate

Earn your Paralegal Certificate in 12 to 18 months! This program is ideal for individuals seeking to enter the legal field, plan to attend law school after completing a bachelor’s degree, or change careers.

An associate's degree is not required to pursue the certificate. You may begin the program immediately after high school graduation, or, through MCC’s Running Start Program, you can start taking Legal Studies courses while still in high school (check with your high school counselor or home school official for eligibility requirements).

If you have strong research, writing, and organizational skills—or an interest in law, justice, or government—the Paralegal Certificate provides a practical pathway into the legal profession.

Legal professionals work under the direction of attorneys, applying foundational legal knowledge, managing information, and preparing documents across a variety of practice areas.

In this program, you will develop the ability to:

  • Interview clients and potential witnesses
  • Prepare trial evidence and maintain case files
  • Summarize depositions and legal documents
  • Conduct legal research
  • Draft legal documents, including briefs, memoranda, contracts, interrogatories, and correspondence

Contact (815) 455-8690 with specific questions about this program.

(in-district) Total Amount: $6,852

Credit Hours to Complete: 30

Weeks to Complete: 32


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Career Outlook

Related Programs

  • Legal Studies AAS Launch your legal career with MCC's Legal Studies AAS program, offering hands-on training and expert instruction for success in law and compliance fields.

What you need to know about getting your Paralegal Certificate (CIP 22.0302)

Total Paralegal Certificate Costs
Cost in-district out-of-district out-of-state international
Tuition $4,297.5 $13,107.6 $16,708.2 $16,708.2
Additional Costs $2,554.5 $2,554.5 $2,554.5 $2,554.5
Program Total $6,852 $15,662.1 $19,262.7 $19,262.7

What makes MCC's Paralegal Certificate program distinct?

MCC’s Paralegal Certificate program is tailored to the legal and regulatory job market in McHenry County and the greater Chicagoland area. Guided by an advisory committee of attorneys, judges, and legal professionals, the curriculum reflects current practices and employer needs.

You’ll focus on the skills and subject areas most in demand in our local market—preparing you for real-world success in a variety of legal settings.

What job opportunities are available to someone with a Paralegal Certificate?

You’ll be prepared for legal support roles in law offices, courts, government agencies, corporations, and nonprofit organizations.

How will MCC's Paralegal Certificate program prepare me for my career or connect me to opportunities?

Internships are strongly encouraged and provide valuable hands-on experience while helping you build a professional network and develop a portfolio of written work. Many students secure employment opportunities through their internship placements.

Outside the Classroom

Paralegal-Specific Career Information

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Semesters to complete assumes students are taking a full-time credit load of 12 credits per semester.

Proportion of students completing in normal time is the percentage of completers who earned the credential within the specified time of their first enrollment at the College.

Students attending part-time or changing their program of study are two common reasons why they may not complete in "normal" time.

Tuition and fees are set by the Board of Trustees. Prices for books and supplies are subject to change.

See additional information about international student costs.