Apply Today!
Completing your application takes less than 30 minutes! We’ve created an application guide to help you quickly and easily complete the steps to apply and enroll.
Paralegals are the backbone of legal teams, conducting research, drafting critical documents, and helping cases move forward. Our program equips you with the practical skills and real-world experience to thrive in this fast-paced field. Whether you're just starting out, planning to attend law school, or making a career change, we offer flexible, affordable pathways. With demand for trained paralegals on the rise, now is the perfect time to turn your goals into a meaningful legal career, right here at Merritt College!
Law firms, courts, and companies need trained paralegals. California has one of the largest legal markets in the country, with consistent demand for trained paralegals in law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments.
Start earning over $45,000/year with room to grow. Experienced paralegals can make $60K–$80K+.
Get job-ready in under a year with a Certificate of Achievement, or earn an Associate Degree while working in the field.
Thinking about becoming a lawyer? Being a paralegal gives you a head start and real courtroom insight. Paralegal work offers hands-on experience in the legal system, making it a valuable step for those considering becoming an attorney.
Required courses:
ENGL 1AS Composition and Reading with Support* (5 units)
Select a minimum of 11-12 units from the following:
*ENGL 1A is required for transfer.
**A maximum of 3 units can be applied to the Certificate or AA Degree.
Recommended but not required:
Awarded upon satisfactory completion of the major course requirements and the General Education requirements.
Full-Time Faculty | |
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Jerry Skomer Building P-216 Email: jskomer@peralta.edu 510-436-2539 |
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Linnea Willis Building P-216 Email: lwillis@peralta.edu 510-436-2539 |
Program Director
Linnea N. Willis
Building P-208/218
lwillis@peralta.edu
(510) 434-3936
Department Chair
Mildred L. Oliver
Building A-128
moliver@peralta.edu
(510) 434-3859
Dean of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences
Dr. Chris Warren Foster
L123, (510) 436-2609
Denise Woodward
Staff Assistant
dwoodward@peralta.edu
(510) 436-2425
Tanya Ilarde
CE Counseling Office
Building S | Room 438
(510) 434-3938
MCCareerEd@peralta.edu
Marlo Beall
CE Counseling Office
Building S | Room 438
(510) 434-3938
MCCareerEd@peralta.edu
Marisela Carvalho
CE Counseling Office
Building S | Room 438
(510) 434-3938
MCCareerEd@peralta.edu
Completing your application takes less than 30 minutes! We’ve created an application guide to help you quickly and easily complete the steps to apply and enroll.