Welcome to the Online Paralegal Degree Center! Our goal is to help to learn what you need to know about getting a paralegal degree or certificate and launching your career in this growing field.
A paralegal degree online program offers a convenient method to obtain skills required to enter the career field as a paralegal. If you have a passion for research and enjoy learning about law, a career as a paralegal is a rewarding one. This site was created to help you through the process of discovering what being a paralegal is all about, identifying an appropriate learning path, and then applying your education in a satisfying career.
Online paralegal schools are becoming the norm. Law firms and corporations look favorably on accredited paralegal schools online. Programs vary in scope and degree offerings. Potential paralegal students may choose among certification programs, associate, bachelor, and master degrees, or post-baccalaureate credentials. The options are vast and meet the needs of students wanting to balance life and school.
Below is a comprehensive list of the 90 accredited colleges, universities, and online paralegal schools offering degrees, certificates, and courses in paralegal studies. Net cost information is derived from NCES College Navigator and may not include additional fees. The net cost varies from program to program and should be considered an average, not a total cost of attendance. Contact the institution to obtain the latest information and projected cost for your program of choice.
Also see our ranking of the 50 Most Affordable Online Paralegal Programs.
Quick Links
Schools A-C
Schools D-G
Schools H-L
Schools M-Q
Schools R-V
Schools W-Z
Akron Institute of Herzing University
Website
Net Cost: $20,539
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Science in Legal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Ethics and Paralegal Professionalism, Law Office Procedures, Legal Writing, NALA Certification Review
Alexandria Technical & Community College
Website
Net Cost: $13,698
Online Paralegal Degrees
Paralegal Associate in Applied Science
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Legal Office Procedures & Ethics, Civil Litigation, Estates, Probate & Real Estate, Paralegal Skills & Legal Writing
American Public University
Website
Net Cost: $8,839
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Undergraduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Criminal Law and Procedure for Paralegals, Introduction to Law for Paralegals, Legal Ethics, Litigation
Atlanta Technical College
Website
Net Cost: $2,780
Online Paralegal Degrees
Paralegal Studies Associate of Applied Science
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Family Law, Law Office Management, Tort Law, Wills, Trust, Probate and Administration
Bay Path University
Website
Net Cost: $21,087
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Science in Paralegal Studies, Bachelor in Legal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Certificate in Advanced Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Intro to the American Legal System, Legal Research and Writing, Principles of Litigation, Tort Law
Bryant & Stratton College
Website
Net Cost: $11,616
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Contract Law, Legal Research and Writing, Paralegal Capstone, Torts and Remedies
Calumet College of Saint Joseph
Net Cost: $11,644
Online Paralegal Degrees
Bachelor’s Paralegal and Pre-Law Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Post-Baccalaureate Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Family Law, Real Estate Law, Torts and Litigation
Center for Advanced Legal Studies
Website
Net Cost: $16,212
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate Program
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Procedure, Computers and the Law, Interviewing and Investigation, Introduction to Law and Ethics, Personal Injury
Cerro Coso Community College
Website
Net Cost: $7,639
Online Paralegal Degrees
Paralegal Studies Associate in Science
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
List names of programs
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Law Office Management, Legal Ethics, Legal Research and Writing, Real Property Law
Charter Oak State College
Website
Net Cost: $6,312
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Business Law, Legal Ethics and Professional Responsibilities, Public Administrative Law, Technology in Law
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
Website
Net Cost: $6,592
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Criminal Litigation Practice, Paralegal Studies, Procedural Law
Colorado Mountain College
Website
Net Cost: $9,946
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Paralegal
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Family Law, Introduction to the Law, Legal Research and Writing, Substantive Criminal Law
Columbus Technical College
Website
Net Cost: $8,499
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Law and Ethics, Law Office Management, Real Estate Law, Tort Law, Wills, Trust, Probate and Administration
Community Care College
Net Cost: $15,739
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate Degree of Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
11-Month Diploma Paralegal Certification
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Contracts, Legal Terminology, Legal Writing and Research, Torts, Wills, Trusts and Estates
Community College of Aurora
Website
Net Cost: $13,534
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of General Studies Degree – Paralegal
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Contracts, Criminal Law, Introduction to the Law, Torts
Eastern Kentucky University
Website
Net Cost: $11,383
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies, Bachelor of Arts Paralegal Science
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Science Certificate (Post-Baccalaureate)
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Law, Legal Research and Writing, Litigation – Evidence to Discover, Probate Practice and Procedure
Florida Gulf Coast University
Website
Net Cost: $13,297
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate Course, Advanced Paralegal Certificate Course
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to the Evidentiary Predicate, Introduction to Legal Research, Legal Writing and Appellate Procedure
Franklin Pierce University
Website
Net Cost: $26,357
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Legal Analysis, Research and Writing, Probate Law, Real Estate Law, Tort Law
George Washington University
Website
Net Cost: $32,018
Online Paralegal Degrees
Master’s Degree in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Post-Graduate Certificate Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Advanced Legal Writing, American Jurisprudence, Government Contracts Law, Intellectual Property Law, Litigation
Georgia Military College
Website
Net Cost: $5,449
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Arts Paralegal Studies, Associate in Science Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Introduction to Alternative Dispute Resolution, Introduction to Law and Ethics, Torts and Remedies
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
Website
Net Cost: $8,340
Online Paralegal Degrees
Paralegal Studies Associate of Applied Science
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Family Law, Introduction to Law and Ethics, Law Office Management, Legal Research and Legal Writing, Real Estate Law
Hampton University
Website
Net Cost: $21,191
Online Paralegal Degrees
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Contemporary Legal Ethics, Law Office Management, Litigation and Trial Practices, Torts and Personal Injury
Herzing University
Website
Net Cost: $21,849
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science in Legal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Ethics and Paralegal Professionalism, Introduction to Legal Assisting, Legal Research, Legal Writing
Hodges University
Website
Net Cost: $17,407
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Science in Paralegal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Procedure, Data Privacy and Social Media, Introduction to Criminal Law and Procedure, Paralegal Seminar
Holmes Community College
Website
Net Cost: $5,697
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science of Paralegal Technology
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Technical Paralegal Certificate, Advanced Technical Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Family Law, Real Property, Special Problem in Paralegal Technology
Humphreys College – Stockton
Website
Net Cost: $14,544
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Arts in Legal Studies, Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Certificate of Completion for Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Family Law, Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Real Estate Law, Torts, Wills and Probate
Hutchinson Community College
Website
Net Cost: $7,745
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Paralegal/Legal Assistant (AAS)
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Business Law, Criminal Law, Family Law, Law and the Legal Assistant, Personal Injury and Civil Wrongs
InterCoast Colleges – Burbank
Website
Net Cost: $22,910
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate Program
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Legal Research and Writing, Real Estate Law, Torts
Ivy Tech Community College
Website
Net Cost: $8,532
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Paralegal Studies, Associate of Science Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Procedure, Contracts and Commercial Law, Law Office Technology, Legal Research, Legal Writing
Kansas City Kansas Community College
Website
Net Cost: $13,486
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Applied Science Paralegal Program
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Criminal Law for the Paralegal, Insurance Law, Legal Writing, Litigation, Wills, Trusts and Probate
Kaplan University – Ten Campuses & Online, including Augusta, Des Moines, and Lincoln
Website
Net Cost: $20,857
Online Paralegal Degrees
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies, Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Pathway to Paralegal Postbaccalaureate Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Criminal Law, Torts and Personal Injury, Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning
Lake Superior College
Net Cost: $13,193
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Arts Paralegal Studies, Associate of Applied Science Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Studies Certificate Prgram
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Family Law, Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Legal Research and Writing
Liberty University
Website
Net Cost: $23,191
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Undergraduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Paralegal Studies, The Bible and the Law, Torts, Wills and Probates
Los Angeles Mission College
Website
Net Cost: $8,412
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Legal Assisting
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate Program
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Criminal and Civil Evidence, Law Office Management, Probate Administration, Wills and Trusts
Madisonville Community College
Website
Net Cost: $5,829
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Applied Science Paralegal Technology
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Technology Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Law Office Management, Legal Systems and Terminology, Legal Research, Wills and Estates
Marshalltown Community College – Iowa Valley
Website
Net Cost: $9,059
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Applied Science Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Advanced Legal Research and Writing, Employment Law, Family Law, Introduction to Legal Research, Legal Practicum and Ethics
Massachusetts Bay Community College
Website
Net Cost: $11,794
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Science Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate Program
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Legal Research and Writing, Litigation for Paralegals
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Website
Net Cost: $11,095
Online Paralegal Degrees
Paralegal Associate in Applied Science
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Business Law, Civil Law for Paralegals, Criminal Law for Paralegals, Introduction to Public Speaking, Legal Research and Writing
Mississippi College
Website
Net Cost: $15,712
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Law, Legal Research and Bibliography, Mechanics of Property Transactions, Wills and Estates
Mohave Community College
Website
Net Cost: $11,356
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Paralegal
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate Program
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Family Law, Legal Ethics for Paralegals, Property Law and Real Estate Transactions, Tort Law
Mount Wachusett Community College
Website
Net Cost: $8,150
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Legal Studies for Paralegals
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Estate Planning, Introduction to Law, Legal Research and Writing, Litigation
Mountain Empire Community College
Website
Net Cost: $5,024
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Certified Paralegal, Advanced Certified Paralegal, PACE-Registered Paralegal Preparation
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Estate Planning and Probate, Intro to Law and the Legal Assistant, Legal Terminology, Legal Transactions, Real Estate Law
MTI College
Website
Net Cost: $12,330
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Introduction to Legal Terminology and Procedure, Legal Writing and Analysis, Substantive and Procedural Law
National Paralegal College
Website
Net Cost: $14,372
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate’s Degree Paralegal, Bachelor’s Degree Paralegal
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate Program
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Business Law and Bankruptcy, Employment Law, Public Communications Law, White Collar Crime
Navarro College
Website
Net Cost: $9,028
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Applied Science of Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Certificate of Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Law, Introduction to Paralegal, Law Office Management, Real Property, Torts and Personal Injury Law
New River Community College
Website
Net Cost: $5,392
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Assistant Career Studies Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Law Office Administration and Management, Legal Research and Writing, Torts, Trial Preparation and Discovery Practice
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Website
Net Cost: $4,448
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Paralegal Technology
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Technology Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Introduction to Law, Legal Research, Legal Writing
Northwestern College – Chicago
Website
Net Cost: $23,467
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Applied Science Paralegal Degree
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Contracts, Introduction to Law and the Legal System, Legal Research and Writing, Torts
Ocean County College
Website
Net Cost: $8,780
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Certificate of Proficiency in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Business Law, Introduction to Law and Legal Assisting, Introduction to Litigation, Law Office Management
Post University
Website
Net Cost: $31,254
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Online Paralegal Studies Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Elements of Organizations, Introduction to Law, Legal Research, Real Estate Law and Practice
Prince George’s Community College
Website
Net Cost: $5,879
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Paralegal/Legal Assistant
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal and Legal Assistant Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Contracts, Criminal Law, Techniques of Legal Research
Rasmussen College Online
Website
Net Cost: $16,693
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate’s Degree Paralegal
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Family Law, Law Office Technology – Cyberspace and the Paralegal Profession, Paralegal Ethics, Torts – Auto Accidents and Other Legal Injuries
Remington College – Heathrow
Website
Net Cost: $18,669
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Bankruptcy Law, Business and Contracts Law, Civil Litigation and Trial Preparation, Legal Liability and Ethics
Roger Williams University
Website
Net Cost: $34,765
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies, Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies (Hybrid Online)
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Certificate in Paralegal Studies, Certificate in Nurse Paralegal (Hybrid Online)
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Criminal Law for the Paralegal, Emerging Technologies and the Legal Environment, Law of Business Organizations, Legal Ethics, Litigation
Saint Mary of the Woods College
Website
Net Cost: $15,685
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate Degree Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Computers in the Law, Law and Ethics and Society, Death and Taxes, Legal Communication, Theories of Liability
Southern Utah University
Website
Net Cost: $13,862
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Criminal Law and Procedure, Family Law, Legal Ethics and Professionalism, Legal Interviewing, Investigation and Case Prep
Southwest Virginia Community College
Website
Net Cost: $7,112
Online Paralegal Degrees
None
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Legal Studies Certificate for the Paralegal
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Estate Planning and Probate, Human Relations, Legal Research and Writing, Legal Transactions, Trial Practice and Law Evidence
SUNY College of Technology at Canton Online
Website
Net Cost: $12,065
Online Paralegal Degrees
Bachelor of Legal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Constitutional Law, Legal Research, Negligence and Intentional Torts, Professional Ethics, Real Property
Tallahassee Community College
Website
Net Cost: $4,899
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate in Paralegal and Legal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Family Law, Introduction to the Legal Process, Litigation Procedures, The Law of Business
Tompkins Cortland Community College
Website
Net Cost: $8,915
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Studies Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Business Law, Introduction to Paralegalism, Legal Research and Drafting, Real Estate and Property Law
Tyler Junior College
Website
Net Cost: $6,757
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science (Online/Hybrid)
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Constitutional Law, Introduction to Law, Legal Research, Paralegal Ethics
University of Northwestern Ohio
Website
Net Cost: $14,806
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate Degree in Legal Assisting
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Diploma Program
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Domestic Relations, Juvenile Law, Legal Ethics, Legal Research and Writing, Probate Administration
Vista College Online
Website
Net Cost: $16,330
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Degree for Paralegal Program
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Litigation, Contract Law, Probate Administration and Estate Planning, Tort Law
Western Piedmont Community College
Website
Net Cost: $7,763
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Technology
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Civil Injuries, Commercial Law, Intro to Paralegal Study, Real Property
William Woods University
Website
Net Cost: $20,577
Online Paralegal Degrees
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
None
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Administrative and Federal Procedure, American Legal System, Civil Practice, Ethics and the Law Office, Probate and Estate Planning
Yavapai College
Website
Net Cost: $7,608
Online Paralegal Degrees
Associate of Applied Science Paralegal Studies
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Paralegal Studies Post Degree Certificate
Online Paralegal Courses (examples)
Business Organizations, Civil Tort Litigation, Criminal Law and Procedure, Legal Computer Applications, Real Estate Law
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Online Paralegal Studies – Overview
Paralegals are the foundation of a well-built law firm. They perform various tasks to support lawyers, conduct research, and even carry out interviews with clients, witnesses, and other individuals pertinent to a case. In large organizations, paralegals may work on specific phases of a case, while in smaller firms the paralegal may work a case from beginning to end. A complex skill-set is required to do the work of a paralegal. The only way to gather the skills and education required to become a successful paralegal is to attend one of the many accredited online paralegal programs available.
The United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, reports that employment for paralegals is projected to increase 17 percent until the year 2022. This rate of increase is faster than the average of all other occupations, making it a favorable time to enroll in one of the accredited online paralegal programs and get started on your career path.
Online programs in paralegal studies vary in scope of study. A four-year bachelor’s degree or 18-month fast-track associate’s degree are among the most common accredited online paralegal programs. Both undergraduate and post-graduate certificates are available. The degree type depends on the length of schooling desired.
Paralegal Bachelor’s Degree Online
A bachelor’s degree is generally a four-year degree yielding a high level of understanding through exposure to subject manner. Choosing an accredited paralegal degree online is the first step toward obtaining a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies. With the rapid growth rate of the paralegal profession, standing out among competition is essential for entry-level jobs.
Obtaining an accredited paralegal degree online equips you with practical skills and knowledge of the growing field. Course topics within the bachelor degree program help develop competency in specific areas of law. Courses offered may include family law, personal injury law, real estate law, and wills and probate. Students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program in paralegal studies complete most of their work online, while a few hybrid courses may be required on campus. According to the American Bar Association (ABA), ten semester credits or equivalent specialty courses are required in a traditional instruction setting. Many accredited paralegal degree programs completed online are approved by the ABA, when ten semester hours are completed in the classroom.
Students enrolled in an accredited paralegal degree online complete work in foundational legal studies and terminology, legal research, and legal writing. Litigation and ethics are taught in core classes, while elective courses may include specialized topics. Elective sample courses include criminal law, bankruptcy, and trusts.
Resources:
Paralegal Associate’s Degree Online
An associate’s degree in paralegal studies typically takes two years to complete, however, online programs offering fast-track completion in 16 or 18 months are available. Online paralegal associate degree programs should be accredited. Accreditation provides legitimacy for the American Bar Association and future employers. A two-year associate’s degree in paralegal studies from an accredited institution provides skills and knowledge required for entry-level employment in the legal field. While the amount of time required to complete an online associate’s in paralegal studies, the coursework is similar no matter which program you enroll in.
Paralegal core courses consist of topics such as Introduction to the Law, Legal Terminology, Legal Research and Writing, Professional Responsibility and Legal Ethics, and Torts and Personal Injury. These courses lay the foundation for online paralegal associate degree programs. Specialty and advanced legal courses are also required once the core courses are completed. Specialty topics may include Criminal Law, Constitutional Law and Criminal Procedure, Laws and Evidence, Public Communications Law, and White Collar Crime. Students may hone their paralegal studies to include course topics they find intriguing.
Along with the paralegal courses required by the department, online paralegal associate degree programs also require general education courses in order to satisfy the work of the two-year degree. It is not unlikely for students to take general education courses in English, Mathematics, Natural Science, and Social Science or Humanities.
Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
Online paralegal studies certificate programs provide the lowest barrier of entry in the field. A certification program may be completed quickly and efficiently, at low cost and within a reasonable time period. The critical component of this kind of education is to choose only among accredited online paralegal certificate programs. Accredited programs provide the best value in terms of employment options and financial gain.
Potential employers look at accredited programs, especially an online paralegal studies certificate program, favorably. Accredited schools and paralegal programs show employers that job candidates have received pertinent education required to succeed in the legal field. If the employer has the choice between a candidate who completed an unaccredited program versus an accredited one, they most certainly will choose the candidate with an accredited education. Accreditation is valuable to the student and the potential employer.
Earning an online certificate in paralegal studies is often the first step in securing employment in the legal field as a paralegal. Depending on the program, students learn the basic skills necessary to succeed along with exposure to the field as a paralegal. Coursework includes Legal Terminology, Legal Process, Research and Writing, and Law Office Administration. The paralegal certificate program may allow for students to take a specialty course, which focuses on specific areas of law.
Online Paralegal Courses
Having enrolled in an online paralegal program, you anxiously await courses required for certification or your degree. Nationally acclaimed and accredited programs offer online paralegal course studies. Instruction is based on laying a foundation for paralegals to be prepared upon entering the job force. Intensive programs train paralegals to assist attorneys, interview witnesses, conduct legal research, and prepare cases for litigation.
Depending on the paralegal course online requirements, students must complete a certain number of classes and earn enough credits to successfully graduate. Foundational online paralegal certification courses are often similar to core classes required of a paralegal bachelor’s degree program. Students must take such core classes as Legal Office Administration or Law Office Management, Legal Terminology and Process, and Legal Writing and Research. Once these courses are completed, specialty paralegal courses may be taken.
Specialty or advanced paralegal courses are selected as electives, however, a certain number of electives must be chosen depending on the school or program requirements. Sample paralegal course online specialty topics may include Business Law, Corporate Law, Constitutional Law, Family Law, Personal Injury, and Other Substantive Areas of Law. A student with a particular interest may choose to pursue one or more of the specialty classes to highlight their area of focus on a job resume.
Is Paralegal a Good Career?
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, the paralegal job outlook is increasing faster than the national average of all occupations. Employment of paralegals is anticipated to grow by 17 percent until 2022.
The draw to the paralegal career is due in part to median wage. As of May 2012, the median wage for paralegals was $46,990, with the lowest 10 percent of earners making less than $29,400 and the top ten percent of earners making over $75,000 annually. Most paralegals work full time. The top earners generally work for large city firms, while the low earners work for small private firms in small cities and towns.
Aside from job growth and earning potential, is paralegal a good career? Compared to attorneys, the career entry of a paralegal is easy. Lawyers must complete seven years of formal education and pass the Bar examination, while paralegals may obtain an online certificate or 18-month fast-track associate’s degree in paralegal studies. It is important to select an ABA approved program looked at favorably by potential employers.
Work as a paralegal is intellectually challenging. On-going education is a must. If you enjoy learning on the job, mastering casework, and solving unique problems, this is a field worth pursuing.
How to Become a Paralegal
Becoming a paralegal requires taking certain steps in education and experience. There are various paths to become a paralegal or legal assistant. The training program allows you to choose which path best suits you. Some employers hire college graduates with a four-year bachelor’s degree and no legal experience, while others hire paralegals who have completed their education in a few short months and earned a certificate of completion. Options abound, to provide a variety of steps to becoming a paralegal.
One of the first steps to becoming a paralegal is to get the education required. Community colleges offer paralegal programs both traditionally and online. Associate’s degree may be earned in paralegal studies. A growing number of schools offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in paralegal studies. These programs are accredited and those that require at least ten semester credits in a traditional classroom are approved by the American Bar Association.
Many paralegal programs, including those offered online, require an internship-training program. Internships are valuable for students to gain hands-on experience by working for weeks or months in a private legal firm or public defender office. Internships help students gain experience and skills that are looked at favorably by employment prospects.
In addition to education and internships, certifications are another step in becoming a paralegal. Voluntary certifications help enhance the paralegal by setting them apart from competition. Students must be able to pass the exam required for certification and meet the requirements of the credential.
Paralegal Professional Certifications
While most employers do not require professional paralegal certifications, job candidates find that having one may land them a job with their dream firm. According to the NALA Certifying Board of Paralegals, a professional certification shows an honored and respected process by both employers and those entering a career field. Certification is typically voluntary, not demanded by the government, and generally time limited. The time limit means that ongoing educational requirements may be needed to keep the certification current.
The Certified Paralegal (CP) credential is the most common paralegal professional certification. The credential signifies that the paralegal is capable of providing superior service to a legal firm or corporation. The American Bar Association, as well as a number of paralegal organizations and programs, recognizes the credential.
In recent years, confusion on what makes a paralegal a certified paralegal surfaced. A paralegal is not a certified paralegal unless the individual has completed a training course, or preparatory education. While the school or online paralegal program may award a certificate of completion, this is not the same as obtaining a professional paralegal certification awarded by the NALA. The school may award a completion certificate for a training program, but the NALA awards the professional certification.
Paralegal Career Options
An individual trained in paralegal studies has a variety of options to choose when leaving school. The most common career path is to work in a law office or legal firm. Large firms in big cities offer competitive salaries with benefits, while small town offices, on average, pay a lesser wage. While the job as a paralegal is to support the attorney, many paralegals are finding career options in a variety of fields.
Skills earned as a paralegal provide extensive knowledge of the law. Paralegals are avid researchers and critical thinkers. These skills transition well in the workplace, whether in or out of a law firm. While most paralegals enter the workforce in legal firms, some take their skills into alternative fields. Other paralegal career options include:
• Claims Adjuster or Examiner – Claims adjusters and examiners generally work for insurance companies and investigate casualty claims. Some negotiate and authorize settlements based on discovery.
• Law Clerk – The law clerk works with lawyers and judges, researching and preparing legal documents. Law clerks may meet with clients and assist judges in and out of the courtroom.
• Safety Specialist or Technician – Paralegals working in occupational health and safety are skilled with how to implement safety procedures in the workplace.
• Title Examiner – Title examiners often work with real estate records, titles, and insurance-related documents. Employment opportunities exist in title insurance companies, real estate agencies, and some law firms that specialize in real estate law.
Interesting Jobs in Paralegal
Who said a paralegal only works within a law firm? Today’s paralegals have options when it comes to places of employment. Paralegals are needed in nearly every sect of business or organization. Below are some of the interesting jobs in paralegal that allow for employment out-of-the-law-firm box.
• The Government Paralegal
Paralegals are finding employment with government agencies, both local and national. Every department within the government has the need of legal services at one time or another. Highest employment rate of paralegals is in the District of Columbia.
• The Judicial Paralegal
Judicial paralegals work directly with judges or within the judicial environment. Work includes extensive legal research with the opportunity to assist in drafting decisions. This is a great position for a paralegal desiring law school.
• The NGO Paralegal
Working with a non-governmental organization (NGO) is perfect for the paralegal with a specific skill or special interest. The Red Cross routinely hires legal assistants to help with campaigns, projects, and cases.
• The Nursing Paralegal
This new and exciting field of paralegal is increasing in demand. Insurance and medical companies, as well as hospitals have special needs for legal support. There are nurses who become paralegals and paralegals that become nurses to help satisfy requirements for this growing field.
• The Real Estate Paralegal
Real estate paralegals may work for real estate companies or title insurance offices. Both residential and commercial real estate requires legal transactions and contracts. Due diligence is required when multi-million dollar sales take place. Paralegals in this field must be well versed in federal regulations and HUD procedures.
