Paralegal Certificate

If you already have a degree, you can earn your Paralegal Certificate in as little as 18 months! This program is ideal for those looking to change careers. As long as you have 18 credit hours of general education coursework, your associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree, regardless of the subject, need only be supplemented by the paralegal core program classes.

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: $4,135.5

Credit Hours to Complete: 30

Weeks to Complete: 32


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Career Outlook

Related Programs

  • Paralegal Studies AAS The Paralegal program at MCC is designed to prepare you for immediate employment in a rapidly growing field. Courses are close to home and taught by lawyers, judges, and paralegals. The program also serves as a foundation for students who may later pursue baccalaureate or professional degrees 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 $3,495 $10,011.9 $14,368.2 $14,368.2
Additional Costs $640.5 $640.5 $640.5 $640.5
Program Total $4,135.5 $10,652.4 $15,008.7 $15,008.7

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 the 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.