Do you want to be a paralegal? Well, you have certainly picked a profession that is very rewarding and pays quite well to boot! Basically, being a paralegal means that you are the lawyer’s right-hand man or woman. Paralegals are team workers who usually operate behind the scenes often with a high degree of responsibility. You will research and prepare cases for the lawyer who will present the facts in court, prepare documents, and draft correspondence.
Ranked #9 in a recent article by U.S. News and World Report, being a paralegal can mean working in a variety of settings, including law firms, government agencies, and legal departments at corporations. According to the BLS, as of May 2019, the average salary for a paralegal was approximately $51,740 annually, while the top 10 percent earned an average of $82,500 per year. On the low end, the bottom 10 percent earned an average of $32,160 annually. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also projects a 10% increase in job availability between 2019 and 2029.
When choosing a quality online paralegal program, look for an option that has been approved by the American Bar Association. This important accreditation means that the school has met the guidelines set forth by the ABA. There are many programs ABA-approved and there is a list of these on their website at ABA-Approved Law Schools, but the trick is to find an online option that is high ranking and is approved by the ABA.
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For more information: 20 Most Affordable Schools for Online Legal Studies Degree Programs or the Best Online Schools for Court Reporting
Unrivaled Online Paralegal Associate Degree Programs
METHODOLOGY: OnlineSchoolsCenter.com chose not to list the schools in any particular order but instead chose to highlight the schools that offer the top Unrivaled Online Paralegal Associate Degree Programs based on their outstanding introductory legal programs, all of which have their own unique qualities and strengths. Choosing the perfect online school to become a paralegal is tricky though… Our extensive research in paralegal studies will make the decision much easier on you!
This ranking was written according to the following points:
- Accreditation from the American Bar Association,
- 100% online or Hybrid program availability, offering flexibility and convenience,
- Transfer of credits into an online Bachelor’s degree program,
- Blends academic and professional coursework to prepare each student for an entry-level position as a Paralegal,
- Job placement services as a Paralegal,
- Hands-on practical applications as a Paralegal
- Prepares students for the Paralegal certification examination,
- Financial Aid options through Grants, Scholarships and Military Discounts, Tuition Work Programs,
- Online Support Systems and Learning Management Systems for Paralegals.
For a broader look, please see our Methodology page.
TALLAHASSEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Paralegal/Legal studies, A.S.
Program Standouts: Tallahassee Community College is known as one of the most affordable online schools for an associate’s degree in paralegal studies. For residents of Florida, the entire degree costs $6,453.12 for a total of sixty-four credits, or five terms. That’s about $100 per credit hour. There are also excellent The curriculum is offered through the Department of Behavioral, Social Science, and Education and is a perfect informal primer for students who are considering a future education in law school. Graduates from TCC have the skills and knowledge to obtain positions of employment as legal assistants or paralegal professionals upon exiting this outstanding Associate of Science in Paralegal/Legal Studies.
Coursework Sample:
- Legal Concepts of Business
- Litigation Procedures I and II
- Real Estate Law and Property Transactions
Campus Location: Tallahassee, FL
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: Unavailable
Graduation Rate: 37.9%
LEARN MORE ABOUT TALLAHASSEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE PARALEGAL/STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
CERRO COSO COMMUNITY COLLEGE
PARALEGAL STUDIES A.S.
Program Standouts: At Cerro Coso Community College, the Paralegal Studies Associate of Science program prepares individuals to enter into positions of employment in local court jurisdictions, private and corporate law offices, with private attorneys, and as an independent paralegal or document prepares. It is also an excellent foundation upon which to add specialty certifications in a particular area of the profession. The tuition rate at CCCC is incredibly affordable. The sixty unit degree is available for $46 per unit for residents, making it one of the least expensive in-state programs of its kind in the nation. Out-of-state students pay $329 per unit, which is still highly affordable compared to standard rates throughout the United States. Three pathways are available through which students can complete their degree, each of which guides them toward either employment, continuing education, or certification, depending on their goals.
Coursework Sample:
- Law Office Management
- Bankruptcy Law
- Personal Injury and Tort Litigation
Campus Location: Ridgecrest, CA
Accreditation:
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 8.7%
LEARN MORE ABOUT CERRO COSO COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE PARALEGAL STUDIES ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE
COWLEY COLLEGE
ASSOCIATE OF ARTS DEGREE IN PRE-lAW
Program Standouts: This online school offers an associate’s degree in pre-law, which is a very similar education to a paralegal program. Students gain invaluable information on the legal process and criminal justice, as well as the written and oral communication necessary to function successfully in legal scenarios and workplaces. It is a transfer pathway program intended to lay the foundation for future education in undergraduate and graduate work and law school. However, the curriculum does indeed provide all of the training and knowledge required to function as a professional paralegal. Cowley College graduates who choose to pursue a career in the latter are well-prepared to enter into any legal environment and provide high-quality paralegal services.
Coursework Sample:
- Constitutional Law
- Criminal Law
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
Campus Location: Arkansas City, KS
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 57%
LEARN MORE ABOUT CROWLEY COLLEGE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN PRE-LAW
LAKE SUPERIOR COLLEGE
ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN PARALEGAL STUDIES
Program Standouts: The Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies at Lake Superior College offers an excellent array of coursework for future paralegals. The program can be easily completed in two years and provides a low tuition rate for both in-state and out-of-state students. The entire degree is only $11,000, with numerous financial aid opportunities. The curriculum includes crucial topics in the transcription and documentation of legal processes and language. Students develop a strong understanding of legal terminology, the American legal system, state and federal court procedures, and much more. Those who do not plan on continuing their educational career in an undergraduate degree should consider the Lake Superior Paralegal Studies Certificate program. However, those who complete the AAS degree are well-poised to specialize in their knowledge of the legal system further.
Coursework Sample:
- Civil Litigation
- Legal Transcription/Word Processing Applications
- Law Office Applications
Campus Location: Duluth, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 61%
Graduation Rate: 35.7%
LEARN MORE ABOUT LAKE SUPERIOR COLLEGE’S ONLINE PARALEGAL ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE
UNIVERSITY OF PROVIDENCE
ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN PARALEGAL STUDIES
Program Standouts: The paralegal associate’s degree from this online school provides a distinctive approach in the delivery of paralegal education through the excellent field experience courses. Students gain invaluable knowledge working directly in legal environments and providing assistance to professionals of all kinds. Graduates are steeped in courtroom proceedings, legal jargon, and oral and written communication, making them fabulous assets in any future working environment. The University of Providence has been voted the best school in the state for paralegal and legal degrees by ParalegalEDU.org. While many UP graduates go on to work in law firms and attorney’s offices, many also go on to gain positions of employment in legal aid organizations, corporations, banks, government agencies, and insurance companies.
Coursework Sample:
- Legal Research and Writing
- Litigation and Trial Practice
- Field Exp. in Legal Assistance
Campus Location: Great Falls, MO
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 61.6%
Retention Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 35.8%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF PROVIDENCE’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE IN PARALEGAL STUDIES
ALEXANDRIA COMMUNITY AND TECHNICAL COLLEGE
paralegal aas degree
Program Standouts: Students can choose either a Paralegal Associate of Applied Science or a Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma at Alexandria Technical and Community College. The main difference between these two educational pathways is that the associate’s degree gives online students the necessary credits to continue their learning in a bachelor’s degree. However, the diploma program does not provide the general education requirements needed to do so. Either way, ATCC delivers an outstanding education in paralegal studies where students have direct contact with attorneys and other legal experts. The curricula include topics in real estate, bankruptcy, family law, criminal procedures, intellectual property, and more. Students also receive in-depth training in the handling and preparation of legal documents and correspondence, as well as trial preparation, research, and investigation.
Coursework Sample:
- Estates, Probate, and Real Estate
- Interpersonal communication
- Paralegal Skills and Legal Writing
Campus Location: Alexandria, MN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 54.4%
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE ALEXANDRIA TECHNICAL AND COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S PARALEGAL AAS DEGREE ONLINE
COMMUNITY CARE COLLEGE
ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE IN PARALEGAL STUDIES
Program Standouts: Community Care College is well-known as an excellent vocational school that also provides outstanding associate’s degrees. CCC paralegal students gain an excellent educational foundation with which they cant transfer to a prominent undergraduate degree in a relevant field. As a vocational school, graduates are also exceedingly well-prepared to earn exciting positions of employment as legal secretaries, paralegals, and legal assistants. They display outstanding skills in oral and written communication, as well as legal processes and jargon. This curriculum is perfect for adult learners who must maintain busy professional and personal lives with little interruption and is available entirely at a distance. However, students are always welcome to the CCC campus and are encouraged to do so!
Coursework Sample:
- Contracts
- Civil Litigation: Intake and Filing
- Wills, Trusts, and Estates
Campus Location: Tulsa, OK
Accreditation:
- Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
- Oklahoma Board of Private Vocational Schools
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 73%
Graduation Rate: 42.6%
LEARN MORE ABOUT COMMUNITY CARE COLLEGE’S ONLINE PARALEGAL ASSOCIATE’S DEGREE
ITAWAMBA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
various online paralegal associate’s degrees
Program Standouts: There are two educational opportunities available online for potential paralegal students at Itawamba Community College. These include an AA in General Studies with a focus in paralegal studies or an AAS in Paralegal Technology. The former provides a broader learning experience that encompasses more general and core coursework. These are excellent facets for students who are considering a bachelor’s degree in the future, in particular. The latter option is geared more strongly toward the technologies applicable to legal environments. Students learn the fundamentals of such applications and have a strong foundational understanding of the legal field. Either degree is an excellent choice for any future paralegal professional. The ICC admissions department, faculty and staff, and advisors are always available to help students organize and execute their educational goals!
Program Options:
- Associate of Arts in General Studies – Paralegal Concentration
- Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Technology
Campus Location: Fulton, MS
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 47%
Graduation Rate: 30.5%
LEARN MORE ABOUT ITAWAMBA COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE PARALEGAL ASSOCIATE’S DEGREES
YAVAPAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE
paralegal studies, aas
Program Standouts: At Yavapai Community College, there is an Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies degree available that has a strong emphasis in legal technologies. The coursework includes numerous topics in the usage of paralegal applications, and students gain invaluable experience working through real-world scenarios with these types of programs. As an AAS degree, the general education requirements include technology-focused courses, as well. Graduates have a strong command over computer systems in the legal environment and are capable of providing high-quality paralegal service after learning with YCC. This degree is available entirely online, and, while all of the gen ed courses are not available at a distance, students are capable of completing the full program from the comfort of their own homes.
Coursework Sample:
- Legal Research and Writing
- Legal Computer Applications
- Civil Tort Litigation I and II
Campus Location: Prescott, AZ
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 13.1%
LEARN MORE ABOUT YAVAPAI COMMUNITY COLLEGE’S ONLINE AAS IN PARALEGAL STUDIES
SAINT MARY-OF-THE-WOODS COLLEGE
associate’s degree in paralegal studies
Program Standouts: Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is an excellent online school that has been recognized on numerous occasions for its high-quality distance education programs. The Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies is forty-five credits of specialty coursework and electives in law, ethics, and advanced research and writing, all of which are crucial topics for future paralegal experts. SMOTWC also provides both a certificate program and a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies. Students who decide that they would prefer an alternative approach to the field can always choose one of these impressive options. This online school has been a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education since 1989, and the applicable programs reflect the standards and principles set forth by this accrediting body.
Coursework Sample:
- CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
- Property Law and Applications
- Corporate Law and Legal Entities
Campus Location: Saint Mary of the Woods, IN
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400 - American Association for Paralegal Education
Acceptance Rate: 75.8%
Retention Rate: 66%
Graduation Rate: 26.9%
LEARN MORE ABOUT SAINT MARY-OF-THE-WOODS COLLEGE’S ONLINE PARALEGAL STUDIES DEGREE PROGRAM
LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
associate’s degree in paralegal studies
Program Standouts: Liberty University is an incredibly well-known online school. It has been included in countless rankings of the finest distance education degrees and is also one of the fastest and most affordable universities in the country. Students in the Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies complete eight-week courses that make-up a sixty credit program. On average, it is completed in about two years, but students are free to transfer up to 75% of the necessary credits, which can reduce the amount of time spent in school by an equal percentage. Liberty University is an Evangelical Christian school wherein all of the online degrees are based on these principles. As such, the associate’s in paralegal studies curriculum includes strong course topics in Christian Life, as well as ethics classes. Liberty students engage with seasoned faculty experts in the law who bring decades of knowledge and experience to the virtual classroom.
Coursework Sample:
- Legal Research
- Legal Writing
- Civil Practice
Campus Location: Lynchburg, VA
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 29.8%
Retention Rate: 84%
Graduation Rate: 42.6%
LEARN MORE ABOUT LIBERTY UNIVERSITY’S ASSOCIATE OF ARTS IN PARALEGAL STUDIES
AMERICAN MILITARY UNIVERSITY
ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN PARALEGAL STUDIES
Program Standouts: American Military University provides an affordable and accelerated online Associate’s in Paralegal Studies. Courses in this program are eight-weeks long, and tuition rates are $285 per credit hour for civilians and $250 per credit hour with a military grant. It is an incredibly flexible program that includes monthly course start dates. There are sixty required credits. However, students can transfer up to forty-five credits from another college or university. The curriculum expands students’ knowledge and skills in numerous areas of law practice, as well as in crucial paralegal procedures, ethics, and litigation. Students learn to utilize legal research techniques, resources, and documents to create sound arguments and reasoning. AMU also has impressive undergraduate degrees in criminal justice, legal studies, and management, all of which apply to the duties and knowledge of paralegal professionals just as well.
Coursework Sample:
- Litigation
- Real Estate Law
- Criminal Law and Procedure for the Paralegal
Campus Location: Charles Town, WV
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
230 South LaSalle Street, Suite 7-500
Chicago, Illinois, 60614-1413
www.hlcommission.org, (800) 621-7400
Acceptance Rate: 100%
Retention Rate: 93%
Graduation Rate: 16.3%
LEARN MORE ABOUT AMERICAN MILITARY UNIVERSITY’S ONLINE ASSOCIATE OF SCIENCE IN PARALEGAL STUDIES
Will an online Associate of Paralegal Studies benefit me in pursuing an entry-level position in law?… Or, will a certificate program suffice?
In the field of law, earning an online associate degree in paralegal studies is indeed a good start. Since an associate degree program can be completed within two years, you can easily obtain an entry-level job as a paralegal or legal assistant immediately upon graduation.
Generally, if you prefer, you may also earn a certificate in this field. However, as competition in the field increases, your online associate degree will benefit you regarding the position and salary you receive upon graduation. In addition, some states allow for licensure to allow paralegals limited abilities of authority. If required, you must have, at the very least, an associate degree to receive licensure, if applicable. Certificate programs are not endorsed by the American Bar Association (ABA) or by the National Federation of Paralegal Association (NFPA). Your associate degree will serve you well in the field of law, as opposed to the limited advantages of earning a certificate.
How do I earn an online associate degree in paralegal studies?
Prerequisites for entry into an online associate degree program in paralegal studies would include a high school diploma or GED, as well as, acceptable ACT/SAT scores. Hybrid and 100% online programs are available on the topic of paralegal studies.
Coursework will include general core classes, as well as, regulations on property law, legal office technology, family law, document preparation, administrative law, environmental law, civil litigation, bankruptcy, and conducting legal research and writing. Also, your studies may include criminal law and procedures, drafting pleadings and motions, law ethics, and cyber laws, in addition to, honing your critical-thinking, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Please verify that your online Associate of Paralegal Studies degree program is properly accredited by the American Bar Association, although, your employment may not depend on the accreditation, it will certainly help. To further your education, consider earning an online bachelor’s degree in this field.
What sort of position and salary can I earn with an online Associate of Paralegal Studies degree?
Generally, graduates of the online Associate of Paralegal Studies degree program, quite naturally strive to fulfill a position as a paralegal. The BLS reports the earnings of a paralegal or legal assistant as approximately $51,740 annually.
Paralegals are hired to assist attorneys who need tasks completed, such as legal research, drafting documents, and maintaining files. They arrange evidence for case preparation, and draft documents, as well as, schedule appointments, and call clients and witnesses. The BLS has projected a 10% job growth increase between 2019 through 2029.