Legal Studies

Certificate Program

About This Program | Curriculum

About This Program

Purpose

The Wilmington University Legal Studies Certificate allows students to concentrate their studies in the specific content areas relevant to the profession. It is designed to provide the education needed to begin a paralegal career working under the supervision of an attorney or advance an existing career in related fields. Because certificate programs are valued by those in the legal field, it is perfect for those who want to enhance their marketability, make a career change, or simply expand their career options.

Program of Study

Certificate programs come in a variety of models. Wilmington University has elected to offer the program as a post- baccalaureate program because a four-year degree combined with a certificate offers students the greatest salary potential¹. The certificate program was designed by paralegals and attorneys to concentrate exclusively on the skills and knowledge needed by working professionals. The program includes a core curriculum of eight classes (24 credits) but can be tailored to the individual student through the selection of two substantive courses. Students actively pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Wilmington University will be permitted to enroll in the Certificate program, but will not receive a certificate until the completion of the degree program.

¹Source: Delaware Paralegal Association, 2005 Salary and Benefits Survey Results

Certificate Competencies

Upon completion, students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate proficiency in computerized and manual legal and non-legal research techniques and the effective analysis and communication of those findings in writing.
2. Demonstrate a knowledge of effective interviewing and fact finding techniques.
3. Demonstrate an understanding of law office dynamics and technology.
4. Demonstrate personal skills in organization, time management, and prioritization.
5. Demonstrate an understanding of the substantive and procedural components within the major fields of American law.

General Requirements

Each prospective student must submit the following:

1. An undergraduate application for admission.
2. An official transcript showing completion of a bachelor’s degree.
3. No more than two courses may be transferred into this certificate program.

Up to six (6) transfer credits will be accepted for the Certificate in Legal Studies.

Minimum Grade Policy

The Legal Studies program has set a minimum passing grade of “C” for LES 120, 200, 314, 316, and 320 (designated with an asterisk). Students receiving a grade lower than “C” in any of these courses must retake that course.