The UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program is a powerhouse for anyone serious about paralegal training. It’s not just about checking boxes—it’s built to make you good at this job. Think practical skills like legal research on Westlaw and LexisNexis, drafting documents that hold up in court, and understanding the nitty-gritty of California law. What makes it special? It’s accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and aligns with ABA-approved programs standards, giving it serious cred. Plus, it’s flexible—online, self-paced, and doable in as little as three months if you’re motivated. Whether you’re switching careers or leveling up, this program’s reputation for turning out job-ready paralegals is hard to beat.
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UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program Overview
This program has been a cornerstone at UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education for over a decade, housed under their workforce development arm, which is all about real-world career prep. It’s run in partnership with the Institute of Career Development (ICD), with oversight from the UC Davis School of Law to keep it top-notch. Instructors like Alyssa Navallo and Daniel Barber bring years of paralegal experience, having shaped programs at places like Duke and UC Berkeley. The mission? To train paralegals who don’t just know the law but can apply it—think practical skills over dusty textbooks. It’s about walking into a law firm ready to roll, backed by the American Bar Association’s gold standard.
UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program Curriculum Details
The UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program hits hard with four core courses: Essential Skills for Paralegals, Tort Law, Contract Law, and California Procedures. These aren’t random electives—they’re what you’ll do daily as a paralegal. You’ll master legal research, draft pleadings, and navigate California’s legal system, which is a beast.
Unique offerings? Hands-on training with Westlaw and LexisNexis, plus a deep dive into California-specific law that you won’t find in generic programs. It’s self-paced over six months, but hustle, and you can finish in three. With over 15 specialist tracks like Family Law, Criminal Law, or Intellectual Property, you can tailor it to your passion. It’s intense, practical, and built to make you a Swiss Army knife in any law office.
UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program Admission Requirements
You don’t need a law degree to join the UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program—just a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. Basic computer skills (think word processing and internet navigation) are enough to handle the online coursework. Applications are open year-round with rolling enrollment, so no stress about deadlines. You’ll submit a short form, proof of education, and a $50 fee. Selection is straightforward—they want motivated folks ready to learn, no cutthroat competition here. Check UC Davis CPE’s official site for the latest details.
Program Formats & Schedule
Flexibility is the name of the game. The UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program is 100% online and self-paced, perfect for juggling work or life. No full-time or part-time labels—you set the rhythm. Courses are asynchronous, so no mandatory Zoom calls at 6 a.m. Most finish in six months, but speed demons can wrap up in three. Start dates? Anytime—new cohorts kick off monthly. It’s designed for busy people who want a NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) path without quitting their day job.
Faculty Spotlight
The faculty here are the real deal. Alyssa Navallo, a paralegal with 20 years in civil litigation, has trained hundreds of students. Daniel Barber, another heavy hitter, specializes in corporate law and brings BigLaw experience. They’re not just academics—they’ve logged hours in law firms, courthouses, and boardrooms. Many hold certifications from NALA and teach with a focus on what firms actually need. With a 15:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you’re not a faceless name—they’ll know your strengths and push you to grow.
UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Facilities & Resources
Even online, you’re hooked up with serious resources. The UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program gives you access to UC Davis Law Library’s digital collections—think Westlaw, LexisNexis, and HeinOnline. No mock courtrooms since it’s virtual, but you get case studies that feel like the real thing. Support services are clutch: academic advisors, tech help, and career coaches who know the job market for paralegals. It’s like having a law firm’s back office at your fingertips.
Internship & Field Experience
Internships are where theory meets reality. The program partners with law firms, corporate legal departments, and public agencies across California—think places like Orrick and local DAs’ offices. They’ll match you based on your interests, whether it’s litigation, real estate, or criminal law. Students work on real cases—filing motions, researching statutes, even sitting in on client meetings. Success stories? Graduates have landed gigs at top firms like Morrison & Foerster. It’s hands-on experience that makes your resume pop.
Career Outcomes
The numbers speak for themselves: 85% of UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program grads land jobs within six months, per internal surveys. Alumni work everywhere—law firms, tech companies like Google, even government agencies. Starting salaries average $55,000-$65,000 in California, higher than the national median per The Bureau of Labor Statistics. Career services are a lifeline: resume workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs tailored for paralegals. Want to know more about earnings? Check out paralegal salary trends.
UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition runs about $4,995, including all materials—no hidden fees. Scholarships are available, like the UC Davis Workforce Grant for California residents, covering up to 20% of costs. Payment plans let you split it into monthly chunks, and federal financial aid isn’t an option since it’s a certificate, but private loans or employer sponsorships work. Visit UC Davis CPE for the full breakdown.
Student Success Stories
Take Maria V., a 2019 grad who went from retail to a paralegal at a Sacramento firm, now specializing in family law. Or James T., who leveraged his internship into a full-time role at a tech startup’s legal team. Testimonials rave about the program’s real-world focus: “It wasn’t just theory—I was ready to work day one,” says alum Sarah L. These folks aren’t unicorns—graduates consistently land roles that match their goals.
UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Applying is a breeze. Head to UC Davis CPE’s application page, fill out the online form, upload your diploma or GED, and pay the $50 fee. No essays or references needed—they want to make this accessible. After applying, you’ll get a confirmation within 48 hours and can start the next month. Need help? Their advisors are a call away. Pro tip: double-check your docs to avoid hiccups.
Contact Information
Got questions? Reach out to the program coordinator at [email protected] or call (530) 752-3639. Want to feel the vibe? Schedule a virtual info session through UC Davis CPE. They’ll walk you through everything—no pressure, just clarity.
FAQs
What makes the UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program unique?
It offers flexible, online training with hands-on Westlaw experience and California-specific courses, setting you up for real-world success.
How long is the UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program?
Most finish in six months, but you can complete it in as little as three with a fast pace.
Can I work while studying in the UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education Paralegal Program?
Absolutely—its self-paced, online format is built for busy schedules.