School of Legal Studies
Launch Your Legal Career in Less Than a Year
If you’re detail-oriented, organized, and passionate about justice, a career as a paralegal could be the right path for you. The Paralegal Studies Diploma program at Rockford Career College offers a fast, flexible way to gain the legal knowledge and practical skills needed to work in law firms, courts, or corporate legal departments.
Through 100% online coursework, you’ll explore topics like legal research, document drafting, civil and criminal procedure, and ethics. This program is ideal for students who want to enter the workforce quickly or build a strong foundation for further legal studies.
With experienced instructors and career-focused training, you’ll graduate ready to make an impact in the legal field.
DURATION: 10 Months
CREDENTIALS: Diploma
FORMAT: 100% Online
CREDITS: 60 quarter credit hours
Get Practical, Real-World Legal Training
This diploma program focuses on the core competencies you’ll need to assist attorneys and legal teams in a variety of professional settings.
What You’ll Learn in the Paralegal Diploma Program:
Legal Terminology & Documentation: Understand common legal language and how to properly draft court-ready documents.
Civil & Criminal Procedure: Explore how different types of cases move through the legal system.
Legal Research & Writing: Learn to conduct research using legal databases and write briefs, memoranda, and other supporting documents.
Legal Ethics & Professionalism: Develop an understanding of confidentiality, attorney-client privilege, and ethical practices.
You’ll graduate with the legal literacy and confidence needed for entry-level paralegal roles.
Join a Growing Legal Support Field
The demand for paralegals and legal assistants is expected to grow as law firms and legal departments seek cost-effective ways to improve efficiency. A diploma in paralegal studies can help you get started in a variety of legal support roles.
Graduates of this program may pursue positions such as:
Paralegal or Legal Assistant
Legal Secretary
Litigation Support Specialist
Court Clerk or File Clerk
Compliance or Legal Office Coordinator
These roles are essential to keeping the legal system moving—and they can serve as a stepping stone to further education and advancement.
Success in this program comes down to consistency and focus.
Be prepared to work independently and meet deadlines
Communicate clearly in writing and presentations
Engage with legal texts, case studies, and research tools
Maintain a high standard of professionalism and confidentiality
Seek help when needed—our team is here to support you
This is your chance to break into the legal field. Show up with purpose.
Start a Legal Career—No Law Degree Required
The Paralegal Studies Diploma is a great fit for students beginning their education or changing careers. We’ve made getting started simple and supportive.
To enroll, students must:
Be at least 17 years old (students under 18 require a parent or guardian signature)
Have a high school diploma, GED, or recognized equivalent
Pass a short Digital Learning Readiness Assessment to ensure you’re comfortable learning online
You’ll also meet with an admissions advisor to review program details, financial aid options, and your career goals.
Legal Training, Delivered Online
This 100% online program is designed to help you build legal knowledge without putting your life on hold. You’ll complete classes in five-week modules, typically two at a time.
Expect to spend 12–15 hours per week on:
Legal reading and writing assignments
Research projects and quizzes
Instructor-led discussions and mock scenarios
You’ll get the flexibility you need—with the structure and support to stay on track.
Q: What’s the difference between the diploma and associate degree?
The diploma focuses on core legal skills for entry-level roles. The associate degree adds coursework in management, research, and specialized legal fields.
Q: Do I need legal experience to start this program?
Not at all. This program is designed for students entering the legal field for the first time.
Q: Can I continue into the associate degree program later?
Yes! After completing the diploma, students can enroll in the associate program to deepen their legal education and increase their career potential.
Next Session Starts: October 13, 2025
After you complete the Paralegal Studies Diploma Program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Paralegal Studies Associate Degree completion program. That’s only 17 months total to get an associate degree.
Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get In touch
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
Why Students Choose Rockford Career College
After you complete the Paralegal Studies Diploma Program, you could continue with our online, 7-month Paralegal Studies Associate Degree completion program. That’s only 17 months total to get an associate degree.
Questions about our Rockford campus? Let’s connect and talk about your future.
Get in Touch
See our classrooms, meet our staff, and imagine yourself in a career that matters.
Book Your Campus Tour
At Rockford Career College, we believe your future in law shouldn’t be held back by finances. Our team will help you explore financial aid options—including grants, loans, and scholarships—so you can focus on building your legal career, not stressing about the cost.
Rockford Career College
(A Branch Campus of Stautzenberger College-Maumee)
1130 S Alpine Rd #100,
Rockford, IL 61108
Phone: (815) 965-8616
or (888) 680-6682
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