IU South Bend has now made a new minor program available for students who are interested in legal education and can receive a paralegal certification upon completion of the program. Through this minor program, you’ll possess the essential skills to pursue employment as a paralegal. Paralegals are in demand across diverse industries, including private corporations, banks, healthcare facilities and nonprofit organizations, in addition to law firms.

The certificate is a part-time, evening, classroom-based program totaling 21 credit hours, designed for individuals currently working who wish to obtain certification and advance their careers. Paralegals enhance the efficiency, speed, cost-effectiveness and accessibility of legal services, and they help to meet the growing demand for affordable legal assistance. 

Typical responsibilities include preparing materials for closings, hearings, trials and corporate meetings; drafting contracts; investigating case facts; organizing and managing legal files; and assisting with tax return preparation and financial recordkeeping. While paralegals are commonly employed by law firms and government agencies, they may also work for corporations, insurance companies, hospitals, title companies and community legal service organizations.

The Paralegal Studies Certificate Program begins each year during Summer Session 1 with the course POLS-Y 211 Introduction to Law. Students cannot start at other times without special permission from the program.

This interdisciplinary program is usually completed in two and a half years; however, an accelerated one-year option is available for eligible students. Additionally, students in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences can use this certificate to fulfill the requirements for the CLAS minor.

For more information on this program and if you want to register, call 574-520-4415 or email the program coordinators at [email protected].