Online Learning
Designed and instructed by Texas attorneys, this online non-credit program is designed to quickly and efficiently develop the job skills demanded by legal employers. The program consists of three phases: Paralegal 1, Paralegal 2, and Paralegal 3, each of which is a semester in length. Phases can be completed entirely at a distance, although field trips to a local law library and courthouse are optional.
This program is self-paced, meaning students learn on their own time and schedule. Although assignments and projects have firm due dates, students are not required to learn at the same time as others. Courses are delivered via UTSA’s Blackboard website and contain multimedia and creative instructional technology.
Curriculum Overview
The Paralegal Program consists of the following sections: Introduction to Law, Legal Research, Civil Litigation I & II, Legal Writing, Contracts and Business Organizations, Nexis Uni and TXdocs, Family Law, Wills and Probate, and Criminal Law and Procedure.
Family Law
The paralegal's role in a family law practice, including the substantive law and procedures relating to divorce, community property, conservatorship and child support.
Criminal Law
The paralegal's role in the criminal justice system with emphasis on legal research and drafting projects. Includes criminal law discovery lab and career skills workshops.
Wills and Probate
The paralegal's role in a wills and probate practice, including the law of intestate succession, preparation of basic wills and other estate planning documents.
Civil Litigation
Interviewing clients and witnesses; recognizing causes of action underlying civil litigation, including intentional torts, negligence and professional.
Legal Research
Hands-on use of digests, case reporters, statutory codes and secondary sources to locate relevant law; introduction to legal analysis and legal writing.
Nexis Uni and TXdocs
Learn to leverage technology to complement traditional legal research methods and streamline legal document drafting.
Virtual Classroom vs. Online Learning
Virtual Classroom students receive identical content as in-person instruction. Interactive learning strategies and activities are utilized throughout the program to ensure effective engagement and student comprehension.
| Description | Virtual Classroom |
Online |
|---|---|---|
| Courthouse Project | optional |
|
| Classroom Attendance Required | ||
| Personal Instructor Feedback | ||
| Communication Workshops (resume, cover letter, mock interviews) | optional |
|
| Access to Library Resources | ||
| Library Research Experience | optional |
|
| Offered year-round (fall, spring, summer) | ||
| Instructed by Practicing Attorneys | ||
| Program can be Completed in 11 Months |
| Description | Virtual Classroom |
Online |
|---|---|---|
| Access to Nexis Uni on your Personal Computer | ||
| Access to TXdocs on your Personal Computer |
| Description | Virtual Classroom |
Online |
|---|---|---|
| Videotaped Lectures | ||
| Discussion Board Participation Required | ||
| Friday Deadlines for Assignments and Quizzes |
Virtual Information Sessions
Receive a 10% Registration Discount!
Want to learn more about the Paralegal Certificate Program before you register? Sign up to attend an information session!
Led by the PaCE Paralegal Program Coordinator, you will be introduced to program curriculum, the opportunity outlook in the paralegal field, and the required skills to become a successful paralegal.
Can't decide what learning option is best for you? The advantages of both the online and live, virtual classroom delivery method will be discussed.
- After registering for your desired session, you will receive an email one week prior to the start date with a link to the virtual session.
- By attending an information session, you will receive a 10% registration discount for the first semester of the program.
Career Outlook
In Texas, Paralegal and Legal Assistant positions are expected to grow at a rate of 19% between 2022-2032, almost five-times faster than the average growth rate of 4% for all occupations nation-wide.
Background
According to U.S. News and World Report, Paralegal is ranked as the 74th best job in the 2024 100 Best Jobs rankings. The rankings consider annual salary, career advancement, work-life balance, and career demand to determine rank.
Sample of reported job titles include: Certified Paralegal, Corporate Law Assistant, Law Associate, Legal Analyst, Legal Assistant, Litigation Paralegal, Paralegal, Paralegal Assistant, Paralegal Specialist, Real Estate Paralegal, Immigration Paralegal.
Industries
It is a common misconception that paralegals work exclusively in law firms. Paralegals are employed in a wide variety of industries including:
- Accounting
- Banking
- Government Agencies
- Healthcare
- Insurance
- Non-Profit
- Oil and Gas
- Protective Services (Police and Detectives)
- Real Estate
Program Cost & Policies
Review tuition, estimated expenses, payment options, discounts and important enrollment policies for the UT San Antonio Online Paralegal Certificate Program.
Program Cost
$1,785 per semester
$5,355 total tuition
The Online Paralegal Certificate Program is completed through three consecutive phases over approximately 11 months. Textbooks and personal expenses are not included in tuition.
Payment Options
Up to three payments per semester
Financing options may be available
Students may pay each semester in full or request an installment plan. Continuing education loans and approved education-benefit programs may also be available.
Policies & Discounts
10% first-semester discount
Refund restrictions apply
Students who attend an eligible virtual information session may receive a first-semester discount. Review refund, withdrawal and consecutive-enrollment requirements.
