Paralegal Certificate Program Continues to Thrive

Where else can you interact with lawyers, network with judges, experience a trial, and get a job? We’ve got a class for that!

For more than 30 years, our Paralegal Certificate has launched countless graduates into the legal field. We are proud of the history of this program and wanted to highlight what makes it extraordinary.

What’s in a name?

Dennis O’Brien, Cheryl Richardson, Jeffrey Gaba, John (Dick) Edwards – a quick Google search will enlighten you on the caliber of our instructors. Our teaching team represents experienced and active lawyers and paralegals. They know the legal system and have the accolades and credentials to prove it.

It’s a family affair.

Dick Edwards, Cobb County Assistant District Attorney, was on hand in 2014 when we dedicated our Law Library. Its namesake – his father, the late Joe R. Edwards. Widely known as “every man’s attorney,” Joe R. Edwards was known for defending lower-income clients, often pro bono. Our law library is exclusive to our Paralegal students and houses thousands of law books for our Legal Research & Writing students to use for coursework.

We know what success looks like – just ask UPCEA.

The University Professional and Continuing Education Association has honored our program with multiple regional awards. In 2014, we received the 2014 UPCEA South award for Program of Excellence. Megan Harpine won the 2017 Continuing Education Student Award, and John Edwards received the Professional Continuing Educator award in 2016. Out of nominations from 12 states and Puerto Rico, our Paralegal program continues to be among the best.

Take your pick on your own time!

Did you know we offer daytime and evening classes? What about the ability to complete them in less than a year? Our program is designed to ready you for employment – and fast. Most courses are only $279 each and can be paid for as you go through the program. Arrange your own schedule to accommodate our 13-course load. With 2 courses per session, you can graduate in approximately 12 months.

We have an A-team.

Our Paralegal Advisory Board consists of district attorneys, judges, legal professionals and more who are dedicated to your success. In 2017, this group has been instrumental in developing courtroom tours, panel discussions and internships – all for the benefit of each and every student in our program.

We want to put you to work.

The jobs are out there – and we make them accessible for you. Once you complete 3 paralegal courses, you can join our job posting board and receive information regarding internships, part-time and full-time jobs. Ruth Vail, graduate, said, “I got two job offers. The openings came through [CCPE], and I am ever so grateful.”

Something for everyone – seriously.

Are you an undergraduate interested in law school? Did you pause your career to raise a family? Are you ready for a career change? All are welcome! Our paralegal students represent a variety of ages, backgrounds and circumstances. However, the one thing they have in common at the end is a professional certificate representing their new skills and desire to make a difference through the legal field. It’s never too late for a new beginning!

We’ll make you famous.

Our award-winning videos not only showcase the opportunities available via this certificate – they feature our graduates! These graduates were hand-picked to star in this commercial which was shot in our law library and KSU Center. What you see is real: From their excitement, fervor and success.