IGNOU invites applications for diploma in paralegal practice for January 2025 admissions

NEW DELHI: Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has started inviting applications for its professional postgraduate diploma programme in paralegal practice for January 2025 admissions. The Diploma in Paralegal Practice (DIPP) is an Open and Distance Learning (ODL) mode which is available in both English and Hindi languages.

The aim of DIPP is to equip learners with paralegal skills, which will empower them to effectively navigate and utilize the Indian legal system, the university said. Covered by the principles of dignity, equality, and justice, the programme is designed to address the socio-economic disparities by emphasizing the constitutional guarantee of legal aid, the university added.

Recently, IGNOU invited applications for its postgraduate (PG) certificate programme in cyber law, designed for professionals and graduates. Moreover, on January 8, the open university also launched a three-year Bachelor of Arts (Vocation studies) Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (BAVMSME) programme for IGNOU admissions 2025.

IGNOU DIPP: Eligibility, duration, fee

To apply for the diploma programme in paralegal practice at the IGNOU, the candidates should have a minimum qualification of Class 10 and 12 or its equivalent certification. The period for the course is from one to three years and the programme fee is Rs 8,400.

The DIPP will provide a functional understanding of the judicial and legal systems and will help in developing basic skills for accessing and utilizing legal systems effectively, the university further said.

DIPP: Career, objectives

The university said that the graduates of this program can explore employment opportunities as paralegals, assisting lawyers, law firms, and NGOs in diverse areas such as legal, research and drafting, interviewing clients, advocacy and public awareness initiatives.

The main objectives for the diploma programme are given below.

• Build a robust understanding of the legal and judicial systems and the laws affecting individuals daily.
• Provide foundational skills for accessing legal institutions and judicial processes.
• Empower individuals to engage in public advocacy.
• Create a cadre of "barefoot lawyers" to bridge the gap between the vulnerable population and the legal system.