Paralegals function as legal professionals who assist attorneys in their work. Their work involves helping lawyers by performing administrative duties, which frees up time for lawyers to handle their legal work and cases with clients.

If you wish to become a paralegal, then the first step is to get a professional position at a reputed paralegal degree school or college accredited by the ABA (American Bar Association). Keep in mind that this is a different field than the work that lawyers do. This doesn’t require you to practice law or represent individuals in the courtrooms. 

There are many different career paths you can choose when starting as a paralegal, which we will explore later in this guide. Your choice of degree program depends on your career goals since you can select between paralegal certificate programs, associate’s degrees, and bachelor’s degrees, each offering a different type of specialization. 

With that being said let’s discuss in detail what paralegal degree programs are out there and how to choose one that meets your requirements. 

What is a Paralegal?

Paralegals work under a lawyer’s supervision and conduct legal research, prepare legal documents, and provide advice and guidance to clients in response to queries. 

In accordance with the American Bar Association (ABA), a paralegal is someone who performs specific substantive legal work delegated to them by a lawyer, firm, corporation, or government agency and has been trained or certified by education, training, or experience. 

Simply put, paralegals assist attorneys and law firms with various legal tasks but are not licensed to give legal advice or represent clients in court unless stated otherwise. 

The paralegal profession can be challenging, fast-paced, and extremely rewarding for many people. By becoming a paralegal, you can help individuals, organizations, and businesses in your area and work in a field that you’re passionate about.

What is a Paralegal Degree?

The paralegal degree allows students to obtain a working understanding of the law and practical legal training in order to support attorneys and legal professionals in their careers. 

You may choose to specialize in certain areas of law or procedure as well. This specialized criminal justice degree major may be beneficial for paralegal aspirants because it prepares them for the practical side of the job. If you plan on taking this degree, you should search for courses accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).

A paralegal degree can be earned at different levels, and there are many ways to do so. For example, the bachelor’s and associate’s degree programs train students sufficiently well before they graduate to become paralegals. They offer general education courses, critical thinking skills, legal procedure fundamentals, and preparation for assisting attorneys in a variety of fields.

Moreover, paralegals with master’s degrees may be able to secure senior positions at prestigious law firms. Another way to go is to get a masters while working in a related field, including human resources management or contract negotiation.

What Can You Do With a Paralegal Degree?

The paralegal’s role is to support other legal professionals in various settings, such as law firms, public and private sector organizations, and not-for-profit organizations. In this position, they prepare legal documents, conduct research, administer, provide quotes to clients, interview clients and witnesses, provide legal information to clients, go to court, and manage a caseload of clients, as we have discussed before. 

Performing these many duties offers many exciting career paths and job opportunities, such as the following: 

Paralegal Careers

With a paralegal qualification, you can work as:

• Litigation Paralegal
• Court Reporter
• Senior Paralegal
• Legal Assistant
• Law Clerk
• Immigration Paralegal
• Office Manager
• Attorney
• Legal Secretary
• Contract Paralegal
• Law Clerk

Paralegal Jobs and Salaries

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that paralegals and legal assistants earned an annual pay of $60,970 in May 2023. All occupations will have an average growth rate of 1 percent, while paralegals and legal assistants are projected to have a growth rate of 1 percent from 2023 to 2033.

Even though overall employment growth is minimal, there will be 37,300 job openings for paralegals and legal assistants in the next decade. 

Below is a list of popular paralegal positions available in the market.

• Real Estate Paralegal

Average Salary: $68,387

Real estate paralegals assist clients in transactions and provide legal advice on residential and commercial property purchases, rentals, and lease agreements.

• Corporate Paralegal

Average Salary: $83,516

Corporate Paralegals earn high salaries because they are responsible for various corporate law aspects such as patents and bankruptcy and contract matters. 

• Personal Injury Paralegal

Average Salary: $65,002

Personal injury paralegals typically assist attorneys who handle individual injury cases.

• Paralegal specializing in criminal law

Average Salary: $57,493

Criminal law paralegals work with defense attorneys to prepare trials from witness interviews and motion filing.

These are just a few of the top jobs for paralegals. There are plenty more that you can check out on Indeed.com.

Are Online Paralegal Degrees Better than On Campus?

It is possible to obtain a paralegal degree either online or at a local school. However, deciding whether to pursue your paralegal degree online or at a local school can be quite confusing. Both approaches have benefits and drawbacks. Let’s discuss these in more detail below:

Paralegal Degree Online Programs

There are a number of benefits to earning a legal studies degree online. By pursuing a paralegal degree online, students can attend out-of-state schools without moving. Moreover, many schools offer in-state or reduced tuition rates for students from out of state. The majority of online paralegal programs accept transfer students as well. 

It is common for online paralegal programs to accept transferred credits from regionally accredited schools if you earned an associate degree or college credits at those schools. As a result, you will be able to earn your bachelor’s degree more quickly and at a lower cost.

However, online paralegal degrees also have some downsides you should be aware of. One of the biggest problems with online is that they aren’t suitable for all types of learners. Be prepared to adjust your schedule if you choose an online paralegal program. 

Start using the school’s online system early and order your textbooks. Mark the dates and times of classes and assignments on your calendar or phone so that you stay organized. In addition, avoid submitting work at the last minute since technical difficulties may occur.

On-Campus Paralegal Degree Programs

The classroom experience offered by on-campus paralegal degrees is more traditional. Having an in-person schedule and the ability to learn face-to-face can help you succeed. The campus environment also gives you the chance to meet your teachers, classmates, and legal professionals. 

Later on, these connections may assist you in finding internships or jobs. Hands-on training is also available from a number of schools, such as legal clinics. There is, however, the possibility of higher costs and the necessity of commuting to the school or even moving nearer.

Which one is Better? 

In the end, both online and on-campus paralegal degrees have their own benefits. If you need flexibility and are good at managing your time, an online degree might be better for you. 

However, if you prefer learning in a classroom and want more networking opportunities, an on-campus degree could be the right choice. It depends on your lifestyle, learning style, and career goals. Both options can lead to a successful career as a paralegal.

What are The Different Types of Paralegal Degree Programs? 

There are several different types of paralegal degree programs that you can pursue in your career. Here are some details of those programs:

Paralegal Certificate Program

Paralegals aspire to become Certified Paralegals (CP) because the American Bar Association and many organizations recognize it as an important credential. 

Generally, law certificates or diplomas can be completed in two years. Students in these programs study English, math, and science. In addition, there are courses focusing on trial preparation, legal research, and ethical considerations. If you have completed a paralegal degree program and passed the state licensing exam, you will be able to work as a paralegal.

As an example you can check out the Paralegal Certificate Program at the University of California, Davis (UC Davis). 

Associate Paralegal Degree

The Associate of Arts in Legal Studies is typically completed in two years. The majority of associate degree programs focus on legal fundamentals and apply practical skills, such as ethics, research, and writing.

There are generally two types of associate degree programs: general education and legal specialty courses. In collaboration with members of the legal community, administrators and faculty select legal specialty courses, which will typically include courses in legal research, writing, contract law, tort law, business, estate planning, corporate law, criminal law, litigation, family law, real estate, and legal technology.

Check out the Associate Paralegal Degree offered at the National University to get an idea.

Paralegal Certificate vs Degree

Paralegal certificates are often thought of as being similar to professional degrees, such as bachelor’s and master’s, but there are significant differences between them. 

A certificate program typically consists of 30 credits, compared to 120-130 for a bachelor’s degree program. Due to the shorter time it takes to complete a paralegal certificate, and because most schools charge students by the credit hour, a paralegal certificate may also be less expensive.

Degrees last a lifetime, whereas certifications are only valid for a few years. That being said the best way to become an effective paralegal is to brush up on your knowledge. There are many colleges or universities that offer paralegal programs online or on campus. Read on to discover some of the best colleges offering paralegal degree programs. 

Online Bachelors Paralegal Degree Programs

Several colleges and universities offer four-year online bachelor’s degree programs in paralegal studies. In most cases, the program includes a general education component, courses in legal specialization, and electives. 

Typically, students take specialty courses in their final two years of school. They provide a more advanced and specialized education, allowing students to concentrate on one or more legal fields and acquire specialized skills and experience.

Master Paralegal Degree Programs

A Master’s degree in Paralegal Studies is designed for those seeking advanced knowledge and leadership roles in the legal field. This program typically focuses on enhancing legal research, writing, ethics, and specialized areas like corporate law, intellectual property, or compliance. Earning a master’s degree can open doors to senior positions, including roles in top law firms, corporate legal departments, or government agencies. 

It is also ideal for paralegals transitioning into related careers, such as legal consultants, HR managers, or contract negotiators. Notable universities offering this degree include The George Washington University, which offers rigorous coursework tailored for legal professionals aiming to elevate their careers

What Are the Requirements for Paralegal Degree Programs?

Most paralegal programs have specific admission requirements, which vary from institution to institution. 

Paralegal degree programs usually require high school diplomas or equivalents for entry into associate and bachelor’s degree programs. It may also be necessary to complete an orientation before starting classes at some institutions. 

Typically, those seeking paralegal certificates need a high school diploma or an equivalent, such as a GED. Several students pursue paralegal certificates to facilitate a career change despite holding undergraduate degrees in another field.

There may also be specific prerequisites or requirements for admission to some programs. NALA, for instance, requires paralegal candidates to have earned 15 semester hours, 225 clock hours, or 22.5 quarter credits in substantive legal courses.

How Long Does it Take to Get a Paralegal Degree?

There are several ways to become a paralegal, but the most common is by earning either an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree. Some employers don’t require a master’s degree, but getting one in legal studies or a related field can give you a deeper understanding of the law and help you stand out.

The time it takes to finish your paralegal education depends on the path you choose. An associate degree usually takes about two years, while a bachelor’s degree takes around four years. If you go further and get a master’s degree, that will add another two years. Plus, if you want to become a certified paralegal, you’ll need extra time to study and pass the certification exams 

Here are details of each degree and the time it takes to complete them:

• Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies: 2 years
• Bachelor’s Degree in Paralegal Studies: 4 years
• Master’s Degree (Optional): 1 to 2 years
• Paralegal Certificate Program: 3 months to 1 year

How to Select a Paralegal Degree Program?

During their paralegal degree programs, students acquire knowledge about law, legal research, legal writing, and numerous other law aspects. These degree programs help students develop operational abilities that differ from those taught in law schools, which teach theoretical concepts and broader frameworks. Students who complete their paralegal program are ready to start law school after graduation.

When selecting a paralegal degree program, here are some important factors to keep in mind:

Choose ABA accredited program: Select a paralegal program that holds American Bar Association (ABA) approval because it ensures high-quality education which leads to improved career opportunities.

Comprehensive Curriculum & Specializations: Choose those programs that offer legal writing classes, office administration courses, civil procedure and research instruction, and the possibility of specializing in criminal law, corporate law, or family law.

Experienced faculty: Schools that hire experienced faculty members should form part of your selection process because they will provide mentorship and career advice for students while supporting their professional development.

Practical Experience: Opt for programs offering internships or real-world projects. Students at Oakland Community College can participate in paralegal internships that provide practical training experience.

Student Support & Career Services: Assess the available career support and networking opportunities among schools together with their student support services which facilitate job placement and career advancemet.

Financial aid: Students should examine all available financial aid options which include federal loans together with grants and scholarships as well as specific school financial packages.

Reputation over location: When seeking long-term career success students should prioritize the school’s reputation within the legal community instead of its physical location.

Which Schools Offer ABA-Approved Online Paralegal Programs?

Here are some of the best schools that offer ABA-approved online paralegal programs:

• College of the Canyons

College of the Canyons’ Paralegal Studies Associate in Arts program is designed specifically for busy students. Almost all of the courses in this A.A. degree program can be completed online. The evening hours are convenient for those who need to complete campus courses. 

• Program link: AA in Paralegal Studies 
• Cost: $20,052
• Acceptance rate: 64%

 

• Regent University 

Regent University’s 100% online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Paralegal Studies is a program specifically for adult learners (24 years of age or older) and flexible scheduling. 

The program is designed to give students a good basis for success in the legal profession, which includes legal research, legal theory, communication skills, and clerical and management skills. Students will also learn how to write professionally and persuasively in the context of a legal situation as part of the curriculum.

• Program link: BS in Paralegal Studies 
• Cost: $30,856
• Acceptance rate: 41%

 

• Eastern Kentucky University 

EKU offers an ABA-accredited Bachelor of Arts (BA) program in Paralegal Science. The course schedule is organized into eight-week terms, which allows students to concentrate on fewer courses at the same time. 

The core curriculum of 40 hours for the Paralegal Science program consists of Legal Research and Writing, Special Topics in the Law, Litigation: Complaint to Discovery and Paralegal Internship and Seminar. The EKU paralegal bachelor’s degree online program instructors possess either law degrees or doctorates from the university.

• Program link: BA in Paralegal Science
• Cost: $10,020
• Acceptance rate: 97%

 

• Roger Williams University

Students at William Woods University can pursue the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Paralegal Studies degree which trains them through academic and practical coursework to become documentation specialists and paralegals and court clerks and legal administrators and investigators. 

Students need to complete 42 credit hours to study substantive and procedural law together with legal writing and research and legal computer skills and interviewing and investigation.

• Program link: BS in Paralegal Studies
• Cost: $44,088
• Acceptance rate: 91%

 

• William Woods University

The BS in Paralegal Studies degree program at William Woods University provides students with academic and practical training that prepares them for careers such as documentation specialists, paralegals, court clerks, legal administrators, and investigators. 

Students need to complete 42 credit hours to fulfill the requirements of substantive and procedural law alongside legal writing and research and legal computer skills and interviewing and investigation.

• Program link: BS in Paralegal Studies
• Cost: $40,800
• Acceptance rate: 61%

Conclusion 

The paralegal profession might suit you if you want to use your communication abilities while working as a paralegal. You don’t need to complete the extensive training required for their profession for paralegals to work in the legal field. 

Your interests determine the selection of various occupations and specialties. A paralegal’s role involves assisting attorneys by delivering superior legal services to their clients. If this looks easy to you and start planning right now. 

Having said that, we hope you find this detailed guide on paralegal degree programs helpful and can choose a suitable school that meets your requirements.