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Paralegal studies at Whatcom

Whatcom's paralegal studies program offers an associate of applied science (AAS) degree, a certificate in paralegal studies and, beginning fall 2025, a legal interpretation certificate. The certificate in paralegal studies is for students with a prior bachelor's degree.

Paralegal studies, associate of applied science (90 credits)
Paralegal studies, certificate (45 credits)
Legal interpretation, certificate (45 credits)

All courses may be taken online with the option of in-person for some.

Click here to see the quarter-by-quarter sequence of classes for each pathway.

Legal interpretation certificate

New! Beginning fall 2025, Whatcom is offering a legal interpretation certificate to help meet the demand for certified and registered legal interpreters in Washington state. This innovative program has been developed in collaboration with the Washington State Court Interpreter Program. To become a certified or registered court interpreter in Washington state, you must be proficient in English and at least one other language, as well as pass the court interpreter written exam with a score of 80% or better and pass the oral court interpreter exam with a score of at least 70% in each section.

Whatcom students provide invaluable professional services

Learning doesn't end at the classroom for students in Whatcom's paralegal studies program. These students polish their skills and knowledge in service to the community through their participation in Street Law @ WCC.

Under the guidance of the paralegal studies lead faculty, Street Law @ WCC is a service to provide legal advice and counsel for all currently enrolled Whatcom students (and community members) while also creating opportunities for paralegal studies students to sharpen their client interviewing and intake skills. Services include a brief consultation with an attorney regarding issues such as family matters, landlord/tenant disputes, debt collection cases, and more.

Street Law @ WCC is offered in fall, winter, and spring quarters. As many as 150 clients have benefitted from this service annually.