lawyer

#Paralegal Studies - Professional Certificates - Duke Continuing Studies

Paralegal Studies - Online

Is the curriculum designed only for residents of the State of North Carolina?

No. The Duke Paralegal Online Program was designed with a national audience in mind. While the classroom-based program and the online program share a similar curriculum, the online program does not focus on North Carolina laws or procedures, but uses examples from a variety of different states. The skills and knowledge that you will acquire during the program will be transferable to any paralegal position in the United States. As well, the program is housed entirely online, so students can complete the program from anywhere in the world.

How long does it take to complete the program?

Students have up to one year to complete the program from their start date. However, since the program is entirely student-driven, students can complete the program as quickly as they wish. Some students finish the program in just 5-6 months, while others take the entire year. It s up to you!

How is the program designed?

The program is comprised of two main parts, Essential Skills and Substantive courses. Students first complete the six-part Essential Skills portion of the program. Upon successful completion of the Essential Skills portion, students choose two of four substantive courses to complete. When all course work is successfully complete, your instructor will notify the program director and you will be sent a certificate in Paralegal Studies from Duke University s Office of Continuing Studies.

What happens if I don t complete the program in one year?

While one year is a sufficient amount of time to complete the program, some students do not complete the program by their deadline. If students need extensions, they must submit a written request to the Program Director for approval. Approval is at the full discretion of the Program Director. If approval is granted, the student will receive a one-time extension for three months and no further requests for an extension will be considered.

The Duke Online Global Paralegal Program accepts applications throughout the year except between June 24 and June 30 due to the close of the fiscal year. There is no specific application period, but there is an application process that is discussed further on the Tuition and Application Process page.

What are the application requirements?

All applicants must meet the following requirements.

• Be at least 18 years of age.
• Possess word processing and internet skills.
• Have an email account and regular access to a computer.
• Be fluent in the English language (including reading and writing).
• All applicants are required to hold either an Associate s or Bachelor s degree. Upon notification of admission to the program, an official sealed transcript must be submitted. For degrees earned outside of the US, proof of equivalency to a US degree will need to be provided by World Education Services (WES) in place of a transcript. WES must be contacted directly by the applicant.
• Upon notification of admission to the program, be able to pay the tuition fee in full. If a loan has been secured to pay tuition, Duke Continuing Studies must be notified that the loan has been approved.

What is the amount of tuition for the program?

The classroom paralegal program tuition fee is $6,995. Books are not included in the tuition and are an additional $500- $625.