Paralegal Studies

Become a paralegal in under a year.

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For over four decades, UCLA Extension’s Paralegal Training Program has been setting students up for success. Recognized by employers throughout Los Angeles and beyond, our program equips students with a thorough understanding of the functions and ethics needed in this ever-growing profession. Our program qualifies graduates to hold themselves as paralegals under the California Business & Professions Code §6450. It has been designed specifically to prepare students to perform and adapt successfully in an ever-changing legal environment.

Instructors approved by the UCLA School of Law
Real-world experience is one of the cornerstones of our program and training. That’s why all of our instructors are attorneys, judges, paralegals, and other legal professionals, selected from a broad spectrum of the legal community. We pride ourselves on the expertise that our instructors bring. Some of our instructors are also graduates of the program themselves, who after working as paralegals have gone on to careers as practicing attorneys or judges. Our diverse instructor base delivers a unique and relevant perspective on the legal field.

Note: Paralegals may not provide legal services directly to the public, except as permitted by law.
 

Choose the Program That Works for You
Already mid-career, or have a busy schedule? No problem! There's no need to put your life on hold to switch careers, or expand your career options. 

We offer both 5- and 11-month programs where you'll receive instruction in the following areas: The Paralegal Profession, Common Law, Practical Paralegal Skills, Civil Procedure, and Statutory Law.

5-Month Daytime Program
Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

This 5-month program offers a more traditional class schedule, designed for those who work nights or have other obligations, but have the mornings available for study. 

11-Month Evening Program
2 evenings a week, from 6:30-10 p.m.

This 11-month program is designed to meet the busy schedules of working professionals.

2 Locations: Westwood or Downtown Los Angeles

The 5- and 11-month programs are both offered in Westwood and Downtown LA, giving you more options to acquire the training you need.

Note: Program offerings, including times and locations, may vary by quarter.
 
 
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ABA-approved program for over 45 years
One of the first programs to be approved by the American Bar Association for high standards in faculty selection, academics, resources, curriculum, programming, and student services.

Update for Spring 2024 Program

The 11-month program which begins in Spring 2024 will be offered 100% online through Remote Instruction for the entire duration of the program. This program is ABA-approved. The application period for the Spring quarter has closed. Applications for the 24-25 Academic Year, including Summer quarter, will become available in March.

Pursuant to ABA Guidelines, students must take at least nine-semester credits or the equivalent of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction. Our Paralegal Training Program (LAW X 406), meets this requirement. 

I started shopping around, and it didn't take long to realize that UCLA Extension's program was the best in Southern California. I was able to go through the five-month program and get to work right away!

Lauren Ruitberg
Paralegal Certificate Graduate

No bachelor's degree? No problem.

Apply for our Paralegal Studies (Undergraduate) program

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