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Paralegal Studies

Undergraduate Certificate

Grand Rapids • Face to face (?) • 30 Credits

Face to face

Students are required to come to a GVSU campus for face-to-face instruction to complete the program requirements. Instruction is face-to-face (though some courses may be offered online in addition).

Hybrid

Students come to a GVSU campus more than one time a semester for face-to-face instruction, with additional class meetings online. Instruction is online and face-to-face.

Low Residency

Students come to a GVSU campus no more than one time a semester (e.g., one weekend, week, class session, etc.). Instruction is mostly online.

Online

Students are not required to come to any GVSU campus to complete the program requirements. Instruction is fully online.

Paralegal studies is the field focused on training individuals to assist lawyers by performing legal research, drafting documents, and managing cases.

Overview

Grand Valley's Paralegal Studies undergraduate certificate program prepares students for careers as paralegals and in the legal field. The program is face-to-face, consists of 30 credits, and is approved by the American Bar Association.

The coursework covers substantive law, oral and written communication, critical thinking, investigation and legal research, and legal ethics and professionalism. These courses aim to develop a strong foundation in writing and critical thinking with an emphasis on professional skills.

This certificate equips students with the skills necessary for success in the legal field, supported by experienced faculty and an advisory board of legal professionals. It enhances career opportunities in various law-related areas, making it a valuable addition for those pursuing a legal career.

Courses   What will transfer?   Admission Requirements  
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  Program Website
School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies

gvsu.edu/cj
289C Richard M. DeVos Center
(616) 331-7130

Admissions and Recruitment Office

gvsu.edu/admissions

Career Opportunities

Assist lawyers by investigating facts, preparing legal documents, or researching legal precedent. Conduct research to support a legal proceeding, to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action.

Top skills
  • Writing
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 42,769.76 10%
$ 47,522.23 25%
$ 60,441.95 50%
$ 75,969.11 75%
$ 89,216.74 90%

Assist lawyers by investigating facts, preparing legal documents, or researching legal precedent. Conduct research to support a legal proceeding, to formulate a defense, or to initiate legal action.

Top skills
  • Writing
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Active Listening
  • Speaking
  • Critical Thinking
Earnings statistics
Annual Earnings Percentile
$ 38,765.72 10%
$ 47,474.56 25%
$ 60,490.46 50%
$ 78,241.34 75%
$101,060.70 90%
#1
University in Michigan by Employers
94%
Graduates Employed
"One of the Top Public Universities in America"
- Niche.com

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Page last modified May 20, 2025
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