Edited By Christine Skopec
Review & Contribution By Laura Martinez
Paralegals and legal assistants play essential roles in supporting lawyers. A Paralegal Associate Degree teaches vital skills such as file maintenance, legal research, and document drafting.
An online associate degree in paralegal studies gives students the information and skills to work as efficient paralegals or legal assistants. They learn various legal topics, including legal research and writing, criminal law, family law, contract law, ethics, civil litigation, and more. This program provides a solid foundation to transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree in paralegal or law. With an associate degree in paralegal studies, graduates can seek employment for entry-level positions in the legal field within law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and other legal settings. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the job outlook for paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow at 4%, as fast as the average for other degrees [1].
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Find the Best Paralegal Associate Degree Programs
Discovering the best online associate programs in paralegal studies can be daunting. However, with the assistance of FBD’s Ranking Methodology, we’ve curated a comprehensive list to help students navigate through the options available. These programs offer rigorous education and practical skills necessary to excel in paralegal studies, ensuring top-notch training and preparation for a successful career.
| Univ | Address |
| Keiser University | 1500 NW 49th St., Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33309 |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from a Paralegal Associate Degree
An associate degree paralegal studies typically spans two years and 60 credits. The curriculum encompasses courses on general education and specialized legal courses such as legal research and writing, criminal law, contract law, ethics, civil litigation, and more. Emphasis is placed on developing solid legal writing and research skills, wherein they also learn to locate important case law, draft various legal documents, and utilize legal databases. Most colleges have online, offline, and hybrid modes of learning. Many schools also integrate practicum or internship experiences that help students gain hands-on exposure in governmental agencies, corporate legal departments, or law offices. These programs prepare graduates to contribute effectively to legal teams and support attorneys in various practice areas. The associate degree serves as a solid foundation for entry-level positions in the legal field. Some individuals may pursue further education, such as a bachelor’s degree or law degree, to advance their careers.
Curriculum and Coursework
Throughout the associate paralegal degree program’s curriculum, students will be able to delve into a comprehensive study of legal principles, procedural aspects, and foundational skills necessary for a successful career as a paralegal. The program is designed to gain the knowledge and practical abilities required to support attorneys in various legal settings. Upon completion of the curriculum, graduates will be well-prepared to contribute effectively to legal teams and handle a range of responsibilities in the legal profession. Some standard courses students can find across curricula include:
Legal Theory and Ethics
The course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the ethical and philosophical principles of the legal systems. They study various theories of justice, including procedural, corrective, and distributive justice, and its application to legal issues. It includes study topics like legal ethics codes, conflicts of interest, client representation and advocacy, duty to the court, attorney-client privilege, legal realism, critical legal studies, feminist legal theory, and more.
Legal Research and Writing for Paralegals
This is a fundamental component of a paralegal’s education. It gives them the necessary skills to conduct legal research effectively and draft a persuasive and clear legal document. Students learn about legal research methods, including library resources, case law analysis, online databases, and hands-on practice utilizing legal research databases and tools. They also understand to differentiate between primary legal courses (regulations, case law, statuses), and secondary legal sources (law reviews, treatises, legal encyclopedias).
Legal Systems for the Paralegal
This course provides an overview of legal systems and their significance in domains of law and discusses their role in maintaining justice and order. Students learn about the historical developments of legal, common law, civil law, international legal, hybrid legal, and other such systems. They also understand how different legal systems will influence the responsibilities and roles of paralegals.
Interviewing and Investigation for the Paralegal
This course provides paralegal students information on gathering information, supporting attorneys, fact-finding, and building strong cases. It also discusses legal constraints and ethical guidelines that govern investigations and interviews. Some techniques taught to learners that are important for career building later include active listening, rapport-building, open-ended questions, and types of interviews: witness interviews, expert interviews, client interviews, and more.
Contracts
The contracts course focuses on the fundamental principles and various concepts of contract law. It provides an understanding of the legal framework that governs the transactions and agreements between parties. Students also learn how contracts are formed through mutual agreements, the exchange of which makes a contract legally binding, the conditions necessary for offers to be accepted, and factors that affect the contract’s validity.
Some of the other core courses students can expect in associates of paralegal studies programs include:
- Civil Litigation
- Administrative Law
- Computers and the Law
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Torts
- Real Estate Law,
- Legal Technology
- Legal Document Preparation
- Wills, Trusts, and Estates
- Remedies and Dispute Resolution
- American National Government
- Legal Office Procedures
- Pretrial Discovery and Trial Preparation
- Sales and Contract Law
- Health Care Law and Ethics
Students can refer to the Associate’s Degrees Online Student Guide for more information about an associate’s degree.
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
Throughout the paralegal studies associate’s degree online program, students acquire basic knowledge of legal principles, essential skills, and procedural aspects of paralegal work. It is designed to prepare them for further studies in four-year undergraduate programs or entry into the workforce as paralegals or other legal positions. By the end of the paralegal studies degree, students will have the ability to:
- demonstrate the application of legal concepts to real-work case studies and scenarios;
- demonstrate the development of adaptable and structured programs applicable in various legal contexts;
- demonstrate in-depth knowledge of various legal principles, including civil litigation, criminal law, family law, contract law, and more;
- demonstrate adaptation of writing styles to different legal genres, including pleadings, contracts, and legal memos;
- demonstrate efficient skills and mastery of the mechanics of legal writing that includes syntax, grammar, and proper citation formats;
- demonstrate an intermediate level of proficiency in legal terminology, language, and procedures;
- demonstrate critical analysis of legal statuses, cases, and regulations, including evaluating legal precedents and arguments;
- demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills in various legal contexts;
- demonstrate the application of communication expertise to different domains, including legal education, business writing, and public relations.
Types of Degrees Paralegal Studies Students Can Obtain
Paralegal studies students can pursue different types of associate’s degrees, each offering varying levels of specialization and depth in the field. A paralegal studies associates program offers focused coursework on legal procedures, skills, and principles. It also emphasizes core paralegal courses, legal writing, and research. The different types of paralegal studies associate programs include Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies, Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies, and Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies.
Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
The Associate of Arts or AA in Paralegal Studies is designed to provide a balanced education emphasizing liberal arts. It typically includes general education courses, a broad understanding of legal concepts, and a foundation in liberal arts.
Associate of Applied Arts in Paralegal Studies
The Associate of Applied Arts in Paralegal Studies focuses on providing practical skills and knowledge directly applicable to paralegal roles. It is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in the legal field. There is also an emphasis on hands-on training in legal research, writing, and other paralegal tasks.
Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
An Associate of Science or AS degree in Paralegal Studies provides a well-rounded education focusing on the sciences. It often includes legal research, writing, and substantive legal areas coursework.
Areas of Specialization for Paralegal Students
In paralegal studies, students can choose to specialize in various areas of law to enhance their expertise and career prospects. Such specialization allows them to focus on specific legal fields and develop in-depth knowledge and skills. Here are some common areas of specialization for paralegal associate degree students:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Law | Corporate law is a specialized field of legal practice that focuses on the legal aspects of business and corporate governance. Students will understand how corporate law is crucial in supporting attorneys and corporations by assisting with various legal tasks related to business operations, compliance, contracts, and transactions. | Various roles as a Corporate Paralegal, Securities Paralegal, Contract Specialist, Legal Analyst in Business, Compliance Officer, and more. |
| Real Estate Law | Real estate law concentration deals with legal matters related to real property, including land, buildings, and other tangible assets. Students learn about facilitating real estate transactions, ensuring legal compliance, and supporting attorneys in various legal matters. | Various roles as Title Examiner, Real Estate Closing Coordinator, Land Use and Zoning Paralegal, Real Estate Finance Paralegal, and more. |
| Family Law | Family law is a specialized area of legal practice that focuses on legal matters related to familial relationships and domestic issues. Students learn different tasks, including divorce proceedings, child custody and support, adoption, spousal support or alimony, paternity issues, guardianship, etc. | Various roles include Family Law Paralegal, Divorce Mediation Paralegal, Domestic Violence Legal Advocate, Paternity Paralegal, and more. |
| Criminal Law | Criminal law is a specialized area of legal practice that focuses on offenses against the state or the public. Students learn how to conduct case investigations, legal research and writing, client communication, arraignment and bail proceedings, discovery process, trial support, post-conviction matters, etc. | Various roles as Criminal Defense Paralegal, Prosecution Paralegal, Legal Investigator, Bailiff, Legal Aid Paralegal, and more. |
| Intellectual Property Law | Intellectual property (IP) law is a specialized field that deals with the legal protection of intellectual assets, including inventions, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Students learn critical responsibilities such as patent prosecution, trademark registration, copyright protection, IP Litigation Support, IP Portfolio Management, etc. | Various roles as Patent Paralegal, Copyright Paralegal, IP Litigation Paralegal, Technology Transfer Paralegal, and more. |
| Litigation Support | Litigation support is a specialized area within the legal field that focuses on assisting attorneys in preparing and managing legal cases. Students learn about critical responsibilities such as document management, trial preparation, deposition coordination, legal research and analysis, etc. | Various roles as an E-Discovery specialist, litigation support paralegal, case manager, deposition coordinator, legal analyst, and more. |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
A paralegal associate degree typically requires the completion of approximately 60 semester credit hours or around 90 quarter credits. The program is designed to be flexible, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments. The standard duration for completing the program is 1-3 years, depending on whether they are enrolled full-time or part-time. For those who pursue the degree full-time, it is generally achievable within two years. However, recognizing that many have work or other commitments, a part-time option is available to spread the coursework over three to four years of extended period. Additionally, accelerated options may be available to expedite completion of coursework. These accelerated programs may offer a faster pace of coursework, allowing students to finish the program in less than the standard two-year duration.
Admission Requirements for a Paralegal Associate Degree Program
To be eligible for an online associate degree program in Paralegal Studies in the United States, prospective students must meet specific admission requirements outlined by the institutions. Adherence to these requirements ensures that candidates are well-prepared and eligible for admission. The following are standard criteria considered during the application process for admission requirements for a paralegal associate degree:
- Complete the institution’s application form and submit it along with the prescribed application fee;
- A minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.5 or higher (criterion may vary among institutions);
- Official high school transcripts reflecting academic performance and graduation
- General Educational Development (GED) scores;
- ACT and SAT scores (requirements different for different institutions);
- Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test or PSAT scores;
- If English is not the applicant’s native language, demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL[2] or IELTS[3];
- Submit a statement of purpose or personal statement outlining the applicant’s motivations, career goals, and interest in pursuing a paralegal studies degree.
How to Ensure a Paralegal Associate Degree Program Is Accredited
Ensuring that an associate degree in paralegal studies is accredited is crucial to the quality and recognition of the education you receive. For paralegal studies, relevant accrediting bodies may include the American Bar Association (ABA) [4]. Students can also check the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)[5] and the U.S. Department of Education[6] to check the databases for accredited institutions and programs.
Free Paralegal Studies Courses
Free paralegal courses offer many benefits to individuals interested in entering the legal field or advancing their careers within it. These courses provide accessibility to legal education for those who may not have the financial means to afford traditional tuition fees. Some free paralegal studies courses students can take include:
| Course | Provided by | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Justice [7] | edX | This course provides a fundamental understanding of political philosophy. Participants gain a profound knowledge of the intricate relationships between social justice and criminal justice and their pivotal roles in the modern justice system. The course equips participants with the ability to articulate and evaluate philosophical arguments, encouraging them to ask probing questions about justice in the context of present-day applications. |
| Advanced Legal Writing [8] | UCLA Law | In this course, participants embark on a transformative journey to cultivate the most critical skill for any lawyer: effective writing. Students gain proficiency in selecting precise words, organizing thoughts, and presenting arguments with clarity and conciseness. |
| Law and Society [9] | MIT OpenCourseWare | This course provides a comprehensive exploration of law as a pervasive and distinct element woven into the fabric of modern societies. The curriculum examines law as a set of social systems, scrutinizing key actors within these systems, legal reasoning processes, and the intricate relationship between legal structures and societal change. |
Ways to Pay for a Paralegal Associate Degree Online
How to Pay for College—is a question most students struggle with. Paying for a paralegal associate degree can be manageable with careful planning and considering various financial aid options. Here are some financial aid options:
Federal Financial Aid
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study programs offered by the U.S. Department of Education.
Scholarships
Applicants can look for scholarships specifically for paralegal studies or general academic achievement. Many organizations, universities, and private entities offer scholarships based on merit, need, or specific criteria.
Grants
Federal, state, or local governments and nonprofit organizations provide many grants. Grants are typically awarded based on financial need and do not need to be repaid.
Employer Assistance
Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or assistance programs for employees pursuing further education related to their job responsibilities. Prospective students can check with their employers about available benefits.
Work-Study Programs
Students can also participate in work-study programs offered by their college or university, which provide part-time employment opportunities to help cover educational expenses.
Private Student Loans
If federal aid and scholarships/grants do not cover all expenses, students can also take out private student loans from banks or credit unions. Students should be sure to compare terms and interest rates from different lenders. In some instances, donors help candidates pay off their loans.
Part-Time Work
Working part-time while attending school to earn income is another option that can help cover tuition, fees, and other expenses.
Career Opportunities and Salaries for Paralegal Associate Degree Students After Graduating
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Paralegal Studies offers diverse employment opportunities, with approximately 38,000[10] legal assistant positions available. The paralegal studies associate’s degree is a valuable foundation for individuals aspiring to pursue various roles within the legal domain. A selection of potential occupations includes:
- Paralegal
- Legal Assistant
- Legal Secretary
- Legal Researcher
- Court Clerk
- Investigative Analyst
- Legal Consultant
- Compliance Officer
- Claims Examiner
- Title Examiner
Here are some occupations explained in detail:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paralegals and Legal Assistants [1] | Communication skills, computer skills, interpersonal skills, organizational skills, and research skills. | $59,200 | 4%, which is as faster as the average | Paralegals and legal assistants encompass comprehensive investigations to gather pertinent facts related to a case, requiring a meticulous examination of relevant laws, regulations, and legal articles. These professionals are adept at organizing and maintaining extensive documents, utilizing paper and electronic filing systems. |
| Secretaries and Administrative Assistants [11] | Decision-making, interpersonal, organizational, and writing skills. | $44,080 | -10% decline | Secretaries and administrative assistants answer telephones, take messages, transfer calls, and ensure effective office communication. They also schedule appointments, update calendars, and arrange staff meetings, contributing to efficiently coordinating daily operations. |
| Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks [12] | Computer skills, detail-oriented, integrity, and math skills. | $45,860 | -6% decline | Bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks play a pivotal role in maintaining the financial integrity of organizations by producing accurate and up-to-date financial records. They meticulously record financial transactions using bookkeeping software, spreadsheets, and databases, including cash, checks, and vouchers. |
| Court Reporters and Simultaneous Captioners [13] | Concentration, detail-oriented, listening, and writing skills. | $63,560 | 3%, which is as fast as the average | In legal proceedings, court reporters attend events such as trials and depositions, utilizing specialized equipment like stenography machines to capture spoken dialogue verbatim. On the other hand, simultaneous captioners focus on transcribing speech to text in real-time for people who are deaf or hard of hearing during public forums, press conferences, and business meetings. |
| Claims Adjusters, Appraisers, Examiners, and Investigators[14] | Analytical, communication, detail-oriented, and interpersonal skills. | $72,040 | -3% decline | Claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners, and investigators investigate claims to determine coverage, assess the extent of losses, and decide on the appropriate amount for the insurance company to pay. To safeguard against fraud, these professionals verify the legitimacy of claims and may contact claimants’ doctors or employers for additional information. |
| Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators [15] | Critical thinking, decision-making, listening, reading, writing, and interpersonal skills. | $64,030 | 5% is faster than average for other occupations | Arbitrators, mediators, and conciliators play instrumental roles in settling procedural matters, from establishing fees to determining witness numbers and time requirements. By arranging appointments for mediation or arbitration and interviewing relevant individuals, such as claimants or witnesses, they gather essential information to guide the resolution process. |
Certifications and Licensing for Paralegal Associate Degree Graduates
For those pursuing a degree in Paralegal Studies, obtaining certifications and licensing offers numerous benefits that can enhance their career prospects and credibility in the legal field. These certifications and licenses validate their knowledge, skills, and professionalism, setting them apart as competent and qualified paralegals. Some of the professional certificates that paralegal studies associate degree students can obtain are listed below:
The Certified Paralegal (CP) [16]
The Certified Paralegal (CP) designation, granted by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), is a distinguished mark of excellence in paralegal studies. Achieving the CP credential involves passing a comprehensive examination that assesses knowledge in diverse legal areas, encompassing substantive law, legal research, and ethical considerations.
Paralegal Certification through NFPA [17]
Earning paralegal certification through the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) is a crucial distinction in the legal field. NFPA offers two recognized exams: The Paralegal CORE Competency Exam® (PCCE®) demonstrates readiness for diverse roles, with successful candidates proudly displaying the CRP® designation.
Professional Paralegal (PP) [18]
The Professional Paralegal (PP) Exam, offered by NALS – the association for legal professionals, is a distinguished certification for paralegals aiming to enhance their professional credentials. This exam assesses the knowledge and skills essential for influential legal support roles, covering various aspects of the legal profession, including substantive law, legal research, and ethical considerations. Successfully passing the PP Exam signifies a paralegal’s commitment to excellence and adherence to high professional standards. The certification bolsters individual career growth and contributes to the overall credibility of paralegals in the legal community.
Additional Resources for Paralegal Associate Degree Graduates
Professional organizations provide platforms to connect with practicing paralegals, legal professionals, and potential employers. Networking events, conferences, and online forums facilitate valuable connections, mentorship opportunities, and access to industry insights. Some organizations that a paralegal associate degree student can consider include:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) [19] | The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) is a prominent professional association dedicated to advancing the paralegal profession. They provide valuable resources, educational opportunities, and certification programs for legal assistants and paralegals. |
| National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) [20] | The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) is a leading organization dedicated to advancing the paralegal profession in the United States. Through advocacy, education, and certification, NFPA plays a crucial role in shaping the future of paralegal practice, ensuring its members meet the highest standards of competence and professionalism in the legal field. |
| American Bar Association (ABA) – Standing Committee on Paralegals [21] | The American Bar Association (ABA) – Standing Committee on Paralegals is a vital entity within the ABA dedicated to overseeing and enhancing the role of paralegals in the legal profession. This committee promotes the highest ethical and professional standards for paralegals and contributes to developing policies that impact the paralegal profession. |
| National Association for Legal Support Professionals [22] | NALS, the Association for Legal Professionals, is a dynamic resource for individuals in the ever-evolving legal support profession. Staying informed and connected is at the core of NALS membership, offering a platform to engage with fellow legal professionals, enhance skill sets, and advance careers. |
| American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) [23] | The American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) is a prominent organization promoting excellence in paralegal education. The association provides a platform for networking, resource-sharing, and professional development, contributing significantly to paralegal education’s continued growth and success nationwide. |
FAQs About the Paralegal Associate Degree Program
Why should you pursue an associate’s degree in paralegal studies online?
An online associate’s degree in paralegal studies offers the convenience of completing the comprehensive curriculum from the comfort of your own space. The flexibility of online programs accommodates varied schedules and fosters the development of essential skills such as self-discipline, organization, and time management. This learning mode also equips individuals with potential remote work opportunities, especially in freelancing and virtual collaboration roles.
Who should pursue an online associate’s degree in paralegal studies?
What can you do with an online associate’s degree in paralegal studies?
Is pursuing an online associate’s degree in paralegal studies worth it?
Are there opportunities for practical experience in an online paralegal studies associate’s degree program?
Can you transfer credits from an online paralegal studies associate degree to a bachelor’s program later?
Citations:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics- Job Outlook for Paralegals and Legal Assistants
Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)
Advanced Legal Writing-UCLA Law
Law and Society-MIT OpenCourseWare
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Job Outlook for Paralegal
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
Court Reporters and Simultaneous Captioners
Claims Adjusters, Appraisers, Examiners, and Investigators
Arbitrators, Mediators, and Conciliators
Paralegal Certification through NFPA
National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
American Bar Association (ABA) – Standing Committee on Paralegals