Paralegals play these crucial roles in the legal system:
- Gathering and investigating facts about lawsuits
- Researching laws, precedents, and legal articles
- Helping lawyers prepare for trials and other activities
Being a paralegal also brings in good money. Paralegals earn $60,970/year in median wages (BLS, May 2023) but can earn upwards of $98,830/year.
If you want to become a paralegal, consider affordable ABA accredited paralegal programs. Accreditation is a must because it signifies quality education and employer recognition. Without it, your paralegal training isn’t acceptable for certification purposes.
Also, you must choose the right paralegal program for yourself. Your choice will impact your career advancement opportunities and earning potential.
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What Makes an ABA-Accredited Online Paralegal Program Stand Out?
The American Bar Association, which was established in 1878, is today the largest professional organization for lawyers and legal professionals. With over 400,000 members, it’s a national body that strives to improve the legal profession.
Among its key roles are:
- Setting the standards for legal education and practice
- Advocating for justice, equality, and the law
- Providing accreditation for law schools and legal programs
Its accreditation function is crucial for aspiring paralegals looking for accredited programs. You must look for ABA accreditation for these reasons:
- Ensures high-quality education and training for aspiring paralegals
- Meets certification or licensing requirements set by the states and certification boards
- Improves the credibility and value of paralegal programs
- Provides national recognition for paralegal programs
If you’re a graduate of an ABA-accredited paralegal program, you’ll also enjoy these benefits:
- Eligibility for certification exam: You must complete an ABA-accredited program to sit for a national certification exam. Consider NALA’s Paralegal Certification Exam. Check out NFPA’s Paralegal Core Competency Exam, too.
- Increased job opportunities: Many employers require or prefer applicants with paralegal education from ABA-accredited programs. You’ll have a competitive edge over other applicants.
- Higher earning potential: You’re likely to enjoy higher salaries because of your quality paralegal education.
- Professional Recognition: Your peers and supervisors recognize and respect the rigor of your paralegal education. As a result of your credibility as a paralegal, you’re more competitive for leadership roles.
- Access to networking opportunities: You’ll have access to an extensive network of alumni as a graduate of an ABA-accredited program. Leverage your network for career growth and personal development.
- Promotes professional development: You have access to continuing education resources and professional development opportunities.
Plus, you’re paying good money for a paralegal education. You should pour it into an ABA-accredited program with a high return on investment.
Criteria for Evaluating Affordable Online Paralegal Programs
Consider these crucial factors when assessing affordable ABA accredited paralegal programs.
Tuition costs
Check the tuition and fees first, followed by indirect costs. Look for programs that offer a good balance between quality and affordability. Ask about financial programs, such as scholarships and employer reimbursements.
Program duration
This varies from 6-12 months for certificates to 24 months for associate’s degrees. Consider your career goals and schedule in your choice. Go for a certificate if you want faster workplace entry. Choose an associate’s degree for in-depth training and higher salaries.
Flexibility
If you’re a working adult, look for online or hybrid programs. You’ll enjoy more flexible schedules and self-paced learning. Consider part-time programs and evening classes, too.
Support services
You’re more likely to thrive with strong student support services. Look for academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling services. Ask about access to resources and internship opportunities, too.
Job placement rates
Consider how fast graduates find rewarding employment in the paralegal industry. Job placement rates signify strong quality, career support, and industry connections.
Indeed, affordability and quality co-exist in affordable ABA accredited programs. You’ll find the best value programs that offer affordable costs and robust education.
Top 10 Affordable ABA Accredited Online Paralegal Programs
University of California, Los Angeles Extension – Paralegal Training Program
- Tuition: Approximately $7,500
- Duration: 9 months to 1 year (part-time options available)
UCLA Extension offers among the best ABA approved online paralegal programs. Students receive comprehensive training in business law, civil litigation, and legal research. UCLA Extension offers high-quality education and strong legal industry connections.
George Washington University Paralegal Studies Program
- Tuition: Approximately $8,000 – $9,000
- Duration: 18 months
GWU offers among the top paralegal programs online because it:
- Offers a blend of legal theory and knowledge and practical skills
- Provides students with internship/externship opportunities
- Delivers strong student support and job placement services
GWU students also have access to its extensive alumni network.
University of Denver Paralegal Studies Program
- Tuition: Approximately $9,000
- Duration: 12-18 months
DU is considered among the best ABA accredited online paralegal schools because it:
- Offers a comprehensive curriculum with courses in legal research, ethics, and writing.
- Enables working professionals to receive quality paralegal education. Flexible online courses enable them to meet personal and professional obligations.
Boston University Paralegal Studies Program
- Tuition: Approximately $8,000
- Duration: 1 year
BU, a private school, offers an affordable online paralegal certification program, too. Students choose between full-time and part-time options. Flexible schedules accommodate working professionals.
The program has a solid reputation in the legal field for its extensive curriculum.
University of California, Berkeley Extension Paralegal Certificate Program
- Tuition: Approximately $7,500
- Duration: 6 to 9 months (part-time options available)
UC Berkeley’s program offers an effective route toward paralegal career advancement online. Students and graduates enjoy its prestigious reputation in the paralegal field.
There’s a strong focus on practical skills and a real-world legal environment. An optional internship is available.
Santa Clara University Paralegal Program
- Tuition: Approximately $6,800
- Duration: 6 months (accelerated) to 1 year
SCU offers among the best online paralegal programs for professionals, too. Flexible schedules accommodate busy schedules. In-person and online options are available.
Students prepare for success via rigorous academic content. Graduates work in diverse legal fields.
University of Arizona Paralegal Certificate Program
- Tuition: Approximately $6,000
- Duration: 6-12 months
UA’s legal assistant online degree ABA accredited program is highly recommended. Students learn the essential legal knowledge that creates a strong foundation. Then, hands-on experiences reinforce it and build practical skills.
This is an affordable program with a strong focus on ethical legal practice.
University of Hartford Paralegal Studies Program
- Tuition: Approximately $7,000
- Duration: 1 year
UHart offers among the best accredited online paralegal programs with job placement. The result is a track record of student and alumni success. Affordability and quality via a well-rounded curriculum are guaranteed.
Students prepare for success in various areas of legal practice, too.
Paralegal Institute of Washington, D.C.
- Tuition: Approximately $8,000
- Duration: 10-12 months
Earn an online paralegal degree for career advancement here. The rigorous curriculum emphasizes litigation and legal ethics.
Students choose from on-campus and online programs. If you want to enter the workforce quickly, consider this program.
Wake Technical Community College Paralegal Technology Program
Tuition: Approximately $2,500 – $5,000 (in-state tuition)
Duration: 1 year (full-time)
Wake Tech’s fully online program is the most affordable on the list. The program has a strong focus on practical skills development. Students learn skills in legal research, writing, and ethics.
How to Choose the Best Online Paralegal Program for You
Keep these personal circumstances in mind when determining the best online paralegal program for you.
- Consider your interests and career goals first. What do you want to achieve in your career?
- Factor in the total cost and financial aid options available. What’s within your budget?
- Consider the time commitment. What scheduling adjustments will you make to succeed in the program?
Then, consider the programs’ features and how these align with your personal needs.
- Check the program’s ABA accreditation.
- Research the credentials of the faculty members.
- Consider the scope and quality of student support services.
- Ask about the internship/externship opportunities. Hands-on experiences enable classroom-to-real-world applications.
When you’ve considered these factors well, you’ll likely arrive at a smart choice.
Career Opportunities After Completing an ABA-Approved Paralegal Program
Graduates of ABA-accredited online paralegal programs can look forward to good demand. About 37,000 openings for paralegals are projected every year, on average (BLS, 2023-2033).
Paralegals can also specialize in different fields within the industry, including:
- Corporate paralegals
- Criminal law paralegals
- Family law paralegals
- Litigation paralegals
- Immigration paralegals
Being a specialist increases your career growth prospects, too.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing an affordable ABA-accredited program means:
- Getting quality paralegal education at an affordable cost
- Being eligible to sit for paralegal certification exams
- Gaining a competitive advantage for employment
- Being recognized for the rigor of your education by peers and supervisors
Balancing quality and affordability is a must so you don’t get into debt. For this reason, do thorough research of every program. Pick the one that best matches your goals and financial situation.
Call to Action
Now you know the value of affordable ABA accredited programs. Start researching them today and create a better future for yourself. Reach out to your academic advisors and program coordinators for personalized advice.
