Paralegal Studies Certificate Program
Program Fast Facts
- Start date: August 15, 2026
- Saturdays
9 a.m. - 4 p.m. - On Campus
- 6 months
- 5,495 Priority Tuition
(expires 7/31/26)
$5,745 Standard Tuition
Paralegal Studies
SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate
Essential to the practice of law, the paralegal profession is expected to grow 10% by 2029, which is much faster than the average for all occupations, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate program covers a comprehensive curriculum of 129 hours. Through content designed by practicing attorneys and paralegals, you will gain substantive foundational legal knowledge and practical experience. Includes modules in legal technology and career planning will help you prepare for success the industry.
Extend Your Learning with CAPE's Spanish for Legal Professionals Certificate
9 weeks | Live Online | Earn a digital badge
- Practical, career-ready Spanish — Communicate directly with Spanish-speaking clients in real legal settings, without relying on an interpreter
- One-on-one coaching with native speakers — Practice and refine your skills through personalized sessions tailored to legal contexts
- Learn from an attorney-instructor — Study with instructors who bring real legal experience into every language lesson
- CLE credit — Approved for Continuing Legal Education credit through the State Bar of Texas
- A standout credential — Earn a digital badge for your resume and LinkedIn, backed by SMU's reputation, that showcases your bilingual legal capabilities
Upcoming Start Dates
August 15, 2026
Saturdays
9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
6 months
On campus
October 20, 2026
Mondays & Wednesdays
6 – 9 p.m.
6 months
Live online
Why Paralegal Studies at SMU?
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Learn from Legal Experts
Instructors are practicing attorneys and paralegals who share diverse perspectives and real-world examples in class.
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Highlight Your Accomplishment
Complete your certificate and earn a digital badge to add to your resume and LinkedIn profile.
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Demonstrate your knowledge and skills
Program graduates have been hired by Dallas’ top legal firms who recognize and trust SMU’s commitment to excellence.
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Build your Professional Network
With instructors as guides, students progress through the program with the same group of peers from class-to-class.
Video
Paralegal Studies Certificate Program
Hear from instructors and students about the career benefits of the SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate program.
Student Success
"I'm more marketable now as an executive assistant with a paralegal certificate."
— Emilie Beavers, SMU Paralegal Studies Certificate student
Featured Instructors
Michele Boerder
Lindsey Hardy
