Paralegal Certificate

Earn your Paralegal Certificate in as little as 18 months! This program is ideal for those desiring to work in the legal field, planning to attend law school after earning their bachelor’s degree, or looking to change careers. An associate degree is not required before pursuing the certificate. You can also enter the program immediately after high school graduation, or, with MCC’s Running Start Program, you can begin taking paralegal 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 are interested in going into the legal field and possibly becoming a lawyer, becoming a paralegal is a great career choice! Paralegals work under the direction of a lawyer making decisions that call for understanding basic legal concepts, managing information, and preparing documents in specialized areas of the law. Typical job duties of a paralegal include:

  • Interviewing clients and potential witnesses
  • Preparing trial evidence
  • Maintaining case files
  • Summarizing depositions
  • Researching legal issues
  • Writing briefs, interoffice memos, contracts, interrogatories, and letters

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

(in-district) Total Amount: $5,930.5

Credit Hours to Complete: 30

Weeks to Complete: 32


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Career Outlook

Related Programs

  • Paralegal Studies AAS The program prepares you for immediate employment in a rapidly growing field and it also serves as a foundation if you later pursue a baccalaureate or professional degree in law.

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 $3,645 $9,874.5 $13,881.9 $13,881.9
Additional Costs $2,285.5 $2,285.5 $2,285.5 $2,285.5
Program Total $5,930.5 $12,160 $16,167.4 $16,167.4

What makes MCC's Paralegal Certificate program better than or distinct from similar programs at other institutions?

MCC’s program is specifically tailored for the paralegal market in Chicagoland and McHenry County. With the help and guidance of our advisory board, made up of lawyers, judges, paralegals, and professors, we have designed a unique program with an emphasis on the needs of the existing legal community. You’ll focus on class subjects that are the most sought-after and applicable within our local markets.

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

You'll be qualified to work as a paralegal in law offices, State and Federal Court systems, and for non-profits and corporations.

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

Our mandatory internship program provides you with practical experience as you network and develop a portfolio of written work. Your internship may even lead to employment opportunities.

Additional Paralegal Certificate Costs
Expense Cost
Fees $357.00
Books and supplies $1,825.00
Total Expenses $2,391.00

By the Numbers:

  • The salary range within a 50-mile radius of MCC for a paralegal is $30,000 for part-time to over $110,000 full-time employment.
  • In 2015, there were 67 job listings for paralegals within a 25-mile radius of MCC and 526 listings within a 50-mile radius.
  • In 2013, there were 12,390 paralegals and legal assistants in Illinois, and the number of positions is projected to increase 17.52% by2022 to 14,022. (ides.illinois.gov)

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 (the minimum required for federal financial aid).

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.