Paralegal Degree or Certificate from a For-Profit School

Start your paralegal career by earning a paralegal degree or a paralegal certificate. You can earn either one from for-profit schools that offer quality paralegal education.

But which is the best option for you? Keep in mind that your decision will have a significant impact on your future. Your entry-level prospects and career growth will depend on your choice.

Then, you must consider the crucial factors that contribute to a smart choice. Affordability, quality, and accreditation are the foremost factors. Be sure to consider the job market and demand for paralegals with your credentials, too.

Related:

Understanding the Paralegal Profession

Overview of the Paralegal Career Path

If you want to start a successful paralegal career, consider one of these routes.

Earn either an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies.
Complete a certificate in paralegal studies.
Earn a high school diploma and gain relevant paralegal work experience.

The paralegal degree and paralegal certificate routes are highly recommended. You’ll have a competitive edge for entry-level roles and career growth opportunities.

Then, you must earn a professional paralegal certification. Consider becoming a Certified Paralegal (CP) or an Accredited Legal Professional (ALP).

Continuing education is a must to maintain paralegal certification.

Differences Between a Paralegal Degree and Certificate

	Duration	Curriculum Coverage	Job Prospects
Paralegal Degree	Between two and four years	Comprehensive education combined with hands-on experiences for practical skills development	More competitive for entry-level jobs and career growth opportunities
Paralegal Certificate	6-12 months	Less extensive coursework and more focus on practical skills	Faster entry into the workplace

Role of Paralegals in the Legal Field and Why Their Demand Is Growing

Paralegals support attorneys by performing a wide range of tasks, including:

Gathering information about lawsuits and other legal matters
Researching relevant laws, precedents, and legal articles
Creating drafts of legal documents and correspondence

The demand for paralegals is on the rise because legal services are expanding. Paralegals with specialized skills are in high demand, too.

Pros of Choosing a Paralegal Degree from a For-Profit School

You’ll enjoy many benefits of earning a paralegal degree from a for-profit school.

Time and Cost Considerations

Many for-profit paralegal programs are available in an accelerated format. You can earn a degree in less time than in a traditional program.

For-profit schools are often more expensive than nonprofit and public colleges.

In-Depth Legal Knowledge and Specialized Areas of Focus

You’ll gain more in-depth legal knowledge and even choose a specialization. This is among the best advantages of paralegal degree completion.

Flexibility of Online Options for Working Professionals

Asynchronous courses mean self-paced study and convenient access.

Opportunities for Networking and Internships

For-profit schools have robust connections with local law firms, businesses, and professionals. You’ll find meaningful networking and internship opportunities.

Certification Readiness and Career Progression

You’ll find a comprehensive and challenging curriculum in a paralegal degree program. It’s your preparation for success in the certification exam and then as a paralegal.

Pros of Choosing a Paralegal Certificate from a For-Profit School

Earning a paralegal certificate from a for-profit school has its merits, too.

Shorter Duration and Lower Cost Than Degree Programs

For-profit certificate programs have a shorter time to completion, usually 6-12 months. These programs usually have more affordable tuition than degree programs.

Quick Entry into the Workforce with Marketable Skills

If you earn a paralegal certificate, you have the practical skills that employers seek. Quicker entry also means getting a head start and gaining more years of work experience.

Ideal for Career Changers or Individuals Already Working in a Legal Environment

Yet another of the best paralegal certificate advantages is its flexibility. Earn a paralegal certificate and start a new career as a paralegal. If you’re already in the legal industry, earn it and get more recognition.

Focus on Practical, Hands-On Skills vs. Theory-Based Learning

There’s a greater emphasis on gaining hands-on experiences and practical skills. You’re more job-ready and, thus, more competitive for entry-level jobs or promotions.

Opportunities for Specialization and Continuing Education

Many certificate programs offer specializations, such as criminal law or family law. You can also earn a specialized paralegal certificate to boost your career growth.

Cons of For-Profit Paralegal Programs

But, there are also disadvantages of for-profit paralegal programs. Being aware of these disadvantages means a more balanced perspective.

Higher Tuition Fees Compared to Public or Nonprofit Schools

This is among the most significant for-profit paralegal degree cons. The rising cost of a college education is a real concern among many families. There’s a 75% difference in average sticker price between public and private colleges.

Potential Concerns About Accreditation and Quality of Education

Accreditation is an assurance of quality education. But it’s also among the most significant for-profit school risks you must be aware of. Your job prospects can be affected, too, if you graduate from an unaccredited school.

Limited Financial Aid and Loan Options for Students at For-Profit Institutions

You may have limited financial aid options at for-profit schools. This can be a challenge, considering the higher cost of attendance.

Questions About Long-Term Value in the Job Market

The paralegal field is a competitive one. Earning credentials from a less well-known for-profit school can affect your job prospects.

Employer Perceptions of For-profit Schools vs. Traditional Schools

Many for-profit institutions don’t have a good reputation. High student debt and low graduation rates are the main concerns. There are also significant doubts about the value of their education and degrees.

Accreditation and Its Importance in Paralegal Education

We cannot overemphasize the importance of accreditation in paralegal education.

The Role of ABA Accreditation in Ensuring Quality Education and Career Prospects

The American Bar Association (ABA) is the foremost accreditation body for law schools and legal programs. Note that ABA accreditation isn’t required for all paralegal programs.

But if you choose an ABA-accredited program, you’ll enjoy these benefits.

Gain high-quality paralegal education and training
Qualify for national certification exams (e.g., NALA or NFPA)
Enjoy professional recognition from your peers and employers

Accreditation and Its Impact on the Transferability of Credits

You’ll find it faster and easier to transfer credits between accredited paralegal programs. Doing so means time and cost savings.

How to Check for Proper Accreditation

You can check the accreditation for paralegal certificate and degree programs by:

Looking first at the school’s regional or national accreditation.
Verifying its ABA accreditation (Check in this directory)

You may also read online forums and reviews for feedback from students and alumni.

Comparing For-Profit Schools to Public and Nonprofit Options

Let’s look at for-profit vs public paralegal programs, including their pros and cons.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Public vs. Private vs. For-Profit Schools

Public paralegal programs have these pros and cons.

Pros:

With regional accreditation and reputable status
More affordable cost of attendance
Offers more financial aid options

Cons:

Fewer scheduling options
Larger class sizes

These pros and cons are also true for nonprofit paralegal programs.

For-profit schools have these pros and cons:

Pros:

Regional or national accreditation and positive reputation
Smaller class sizes
With financial aid options

Cons:

Higher cost of attendance
Fewer flexible options

In short, for-profit schools tend to have higher costs. However, with regional and programmatic accreditation, these are justified. You can explore scholarships and payment plans, too.

Long-Term Benefits of Earning a Degree or Certificate from a Reputable Institution

Both public and for-profit schools are good choices for paralegal education. But only choose an accredited school with a good reputation. Your choice will have a long-term impact on your career and personal life.

Making the Right Decision for Your Career Goals

Considerations Based on Career Goals

Ask these questions when choosing the right paralegal program.

What are your paralegal career goals?
Are you gunning for entry-level or advanced roles?
What are the job market conditions?
How high are your salary expectations?

Long-Term Career Benefits of a Degree vs. Immediate Entry Benefits of a Certificate

Then, ask yourself, “Should I get a paralegal certificate or a degree?” You’ll enjoy long-term career benefits with a degree. But if you want quick entry into the paralegal industry, go for a certificate.

Tips for Researching Programs

Review the curriculum and its courses. Look for a balance between knowledge and skills development.
Consider the overall reputation of the school and its program. Check its accreditation.
Look into job placement support services.

Conclusion

Weigh the pros and cons of a paralegal degree and certificate. You must consider them based on your circumstances. Your interests, career goals, and finances must be the priority considerations.

Then, perform thorough research on every paralegal program you’re interested in. Always check its ABA accreditation first. Then, consider its cost, student support services, and career services, among others.

There’s no right or wrong choice between a paralegal degree and a certificate. You’re making the right choice if it’s the best choice for your unique situation.

Both a paralegal degree and certificate are stepping stones to a successful career. The trick is in how you leverage it to your advantage.