Why choose IU
South Bend for your paralegal training?
We offer the area’s
oldest and most respected paralegal studies program. We have been
educating prospective paralegals for nearly 25 years. Our courses and
seminars are taught by practicing attorneys, judges and paralegals who are
experienced and highly respected in their field. To ensure that the course
work is consistent with the current demands of the profession, the
program’s rigorous curriculum is reviewed regularly by an advisory
committee which represents the best of the area’s legal community.
In addition, the paralegal program is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE), and IUSB is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
What Students and Faculty Say . . .
"After many years in the education field, I was looking for a career that could incorporate my skills and expand my knowledge. The paralegal program offered a quick, convenient way to accomplish these goals. After the first class, I was hooked. The instructors were supportive and knowledgeable in their field, sharing personal experiences that made learning not only educational but fun. The program covered many areas of law, which gave me a better understanding of what to expect once I received my certificate. Now that I am a practicing paralegal, I see how very valuable my education has been. IUSB has helped pave the way to a smooth and stress free career change."
Kathy Rubio-Hudgins
Paralegal Certificate Program
"When it comes to serving a client, a properly trained support staff is an essential ingredient. Formal training teaches paralegals how to relieve attorneys from the pressures of the practice and also how to develop the facts presented at trial."
Clint Zalas, Attorney
Paralegal Program
Instructor
What Should I Do If I Am Interested?
1. Call (574) 520-4261 to request an
information packet or schedule an appointment with the program advisor.
2. If you are not already an Indiana University undergraduate student, you need
to apply for admissions
www.iusb.edu/~admissio/
3. Submit a paralegal student data sheet (available at web site; included in
information packet) to Continuing Education.
4. Complete ENG-W131 Elementary Composition (or equivalent) which is a
prerequisite for ENG-W233 Expository (legal)
Writing, the second in the sequence of paralegal courses.
Completion of W131 is preferred prior to beginning the
paralegal program.
5. Register for SPEA V-376 Law & Public Policy (for paralegals) in the fall
semester (offered only in fall semester).
Educational
Options:
Surveys show a strong connection
between the level of education and average paralegal salaries. In addition, an
increasing number of employers view an associate’s or bachelor’s degree as a
prerequisite for paralegal employment. The National Federation of Paralegal
Associations (NFPA) also is lobbying for a four-year degree standard for
practicing paralegals.
We encourage all students entering the program without an earned degree to apply
the 25 credit hours you earn in the certificate program toward an associate’s or
bachelor’s degree. You may work toward your degree while also working
toward your certificate.