Cert in Legal Support Services

The Paralegal Studies certificate at Moraine Valley Community College trains students to support lawyers, judges and others working in the legal community. Its goals and objectives match those of the Paralegal Studies associate degree, but it is designed for people who already hold an earlier college credential. The certificate suits completers of an Associate in Science, Associate in Arts, Associate in Engineering Science or Associate in Fine Arts, or someone with a higher postsecondary degree. Holders of an Associate in Applied Science or Associate in General Studies need to talk with an academic advisor to confirm eligibility and, if required, plan a bridge program. Because the objectives mirror those of the degree, the certificate is a way to gain paralegal training without repeating earlier general education. The certificate requires 36 credit hours and is listed under curriculum code 1491.