While lawyers often get the spotlight (and credit) in court and other legal matters, they wouldn’t get far without the background support provided by their paralegal team. Paralegals are an integral part of the legal profession, and they need specialized training and skills to understand the legal process and be successful in their careers. Fortunately, this training doesn’t require four years of college and can now be earned remotely through online paralegal associate degree programs.
This page has everything you need to need to get started on your paralegal education and career path, including a list of this year’s best online paralegal associate degree programs, key details on what you’ll learn, and a look at what your salary could be after you graduate. Continue reading to find out about this quick and convenient way to enter the legal field where demand and earnings potential are strong.
College Rankings: Best Online Paralegal Associate Degree Programs for 2024
Paralegals play a significant role in the legal field, and it’s important they get the training needed for proficiency in their positions. To help you find the best schools, we compiled a best-in-class list that looks at online paralegal associate degree programs based on affordability, accreditation, and convenience. Start your training at one of these top-rated schools.
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for undergraduate students per academic year.
- Percentage of students who receive institutional financial aid (directly from the school).
- Average amount of institutional financial aid awarded.
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of students at the school taking at least one class online.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio.
- Percentage of full-time, first-time students graduating within 6 years.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Great Falls, Montana
The University of Providence provides an online associate degree in legal studies. This program is an ideal fit for students who want to work in law-related careers at law firms, state and federal agencies, and organizations. In addition to general education courses, students take 28 credit hours of law-related courses to earn this degree. Many of these classes are dedicated to learning the ins and outs of various legal topics, such as property law, domestic and family law, and estate law. This flexible online program has received approval from the American Bar Association.
Program Highlights:
Associate Degree in Legal Studies
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $932/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: NWCCU
2
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Individuals who are interested in a legal career can get started with the AS in Legal Studies from Davenport University. Through a combination of classwork and internships, students learn about conducting investigations, performing legal research, and drafting legal documents. While many courses for this legal studies degree are available online, students must attend some classes in person on Davenport's Grand Rapids or Lansing campus. If students want to continue on to a four-year degree, the school also offers a bachelor's degree in legal studies. Davenport's Associate of Science in Legal Studies has been reviewed and officially approved by the American Bar Association.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Science in Legal Studies
- Credits: 64
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $627/credit (online); $928/credit (on-campus)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: HLC
3
Richmond, Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky University offers a fully online Applied Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies for students who want to get their start in the legal field. This program's coursework is available entirely online, meaning that students can study from anywhere in the world. Each class is presented in an accelerated eight-week format; courses begin six times per year. Additionally, all but nine credit hours are delivered via asynchronous instruction, allowing students to learn on the schedule that works best for them. The remaining nine hours are completed via synchronous online classes. Upon graduation, students are prepared to launch careers as paralegals or proceed to a bachelor's degree program.
Program Highlights:
Applied Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
- Credits: 64
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $434/credit
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
4
Lynchburg, Virginia
5
Fairbanks, Alaska
6
Indianapolis, Indiana
7
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
8
Brookfield, Wisconsin
9
Batavia, Ohio
10
Gainesville, Florida
11
Tallahassee, Florida
12
Atlanta, Georgia
13
St. Louis Park, Minnesota
14
Kenosha, Wisconsin
15
Metairie, Louisiana
16
Salem, Virginia
17
Madison, Wisconsin
18
Lenexa, Kansas
19
Birmingham, Alabama
20
Orchard Park, New York
21
Denver, Colorado
22
Phoenix, Arizona
23
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
24
Lima, Ohio
25
Fort Myers, Florida
26
Rapid City, South Dakota
27
Akron, Ohio
28
Colorado Springs, Colorado
29
Savannah, Georgia
30
Tempe, Arizona
College Ranking Methodology
Generate List of Eligible Schools and Programs
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Career placement and academic counseling services.
Assign Weightings
After generating the list of eligible schools, the STEPS data team then assigned weights and ranked schools based on their performance in a variety of key categories. Affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings, followed by online learning and academic quality metrics (equally weighted).
Affordability
- Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on in-state tuition for undergraduate students per academic year.
- Percentage of students who receive institutional financial aid (directly from the school).
- Average amount of institutional financial aid awarded.
Online Learning
- Number of online programs in subject area self-reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education.
- Percentage of students at the school taking at least one class online.
Academic Quality
- Student-to-faculty ratio.
- Percentage of full-time, first-time students graduating within 6 years.
About Our Data
All STEPS rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: August 2023
Accreditation Glossary
ABHE: Association for Biblical Higher Education, Commission on Accreditation
ABHES: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
ACCJC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
ACCSC: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
DEAC: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
HLC: Higher Learning Commission
MSCHE: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
NECHE: New England Commission of Higher Education
NWCCU: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
SACSCOC: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
TRACS: Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools, Accreditation Commission
WSCUC: Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
1
Cleveland, Wisconsin
Students who are ready to launch their future career as a paralegal can earn their degree partially online with Lakeshore Technical College (LTC). LTC's paralegal program is not only approved by the American Bar Association, but it also complies with requirements set by the Wisconsin Bar Association. In this program, students take courses in Business Law, Civil Litigation, Family Law, and Legal Writing, among other topics. While many of the courses are available in an online, accelerated format, some classes must be taken on campus at LTC. Upon graduation, students are prepared to work under the supervision of a lawyer in settings such as a law firm, insurance company, bank, or corporation.
Program Highlights:
Associate Degree in Legal Studies/Paralegal
- Credits: 61
- Length: 4 terms
- Cost: $146/credit (in-state); $219/credit (out-of-state)
- Mode: Partially online
- Accreditation: HLC
2
Fulton, Mississippi
At Itawamba Community College, students can pursue a career as a paralegal with the Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Technology. During this two-year program, students are trained in areas such as civil litigation, legal research and writing, and wills. After completing the first 30 credit hours of this program, they receive a Career Certificate. After completing the full 60 credits, students are job-ready and prepared to perform specialized legal work while supervised by an attorney. All coursework is available online, meaning students have a convenient and flexible path to earning their AAS degree and becoming a paralegal.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science - Paralegal Technology
- Credits: 60-61
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $145/credit (in-state); $245/credit (out-of-state)
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
3
Hutchinson, Kansas
At Hutchinson Community College (HCC), students can earn an online associate degree to help them prepare for a future career as a paralegal. While enrolled in the Paralegal Associate of Applied Science program, students earn a flexible, 60-credit associate degree. The curriculum is designed to instill students with the knowledge and skills to perform paralegal duties under the supervision of a lawyer. After graduating from HCC, students may take the optional National Association of Legal Assistants examination to become a certified paralegal. Once they've completed their degrees, students are ready to take on jobs in law firms, insurance companies, banks, and more.
Program Highlights:
Paralegal - AAS
- Credits: 60
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $124/credit (in-state); $155/credit (out-of-state)
- Mode: 100% online
- Accreditation: HLC
4
Sugar Grove, Illinois
5
Alexandria, Minnesota
6
Wesson, Mississippi
7
Goodman, Mississippi
8
Martinsburg, West Virginia
9
Norwalk, California
10
Estherville, Iowa
11
Roseburg, Oregon
12
Alamogordo, New Mexico
13
Gardner, Massachusetts
14
Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts
15
North Little Rock, Arkansas
16
Madisonville, Kentucky
17
Albuquerque, New Mexico
18
Fond du Lac, Wisconsin
19
Rockford, Illinois
20
Tulsa, Oklahoma
21
Tampa, Florida
22
Maumee, Ohio
23
Martinsville, Virginia
24
Lima, Ohio
25
Largo, Maryland
26
Appleton, Wisconsin
27
Binghamton, New York
28
Chalmette, Louisiana
29
Pasadena, California
30
Enterprise, Alabama
31
Kansas City, Kansas
32
Fairmont, West Virginia
33
Amarillo, Texas
34
Killeen, Texas
35
Raymond, Mississippi
36
Columbus, Georgia
37
Senatobia, Mississippi
38
Warner Robins, Georgia
39
Ridgecrest, California
40
Harriman, Tennessee
41
Corsicana, Texas
42
Dublin, Virginia
43
Dryden, New York
44
Duluth, Minnesota
45
Brecksville, Ohio
46
Walnut, California
47
Johnstown, Pennsylvania
48
Indianapolis, Indiana
What You’ll Learn in an Online Paralegal Associate Degree Program
The courses found in accredited online paralegal associate’s degree programs prepare students for entry-level positions by familiarizing them with basic concepts related to criminal and civil litigation, paralegal ethics, legal investigations, and court procedure. Students become adept in several paralegal abilities that employers expect, including legal document preparation, critical thinking, written communication, technology, and research skills. Common coursework taken in an online paralegal associate program is highlighted below to give you a deeper look into some of the more common classes in these programs.
Common Courses in Paralegal Studies Programs at the Associate Degree Level
Legal Terminology
The legal field has its own unique words and phrases that professionals are required to be familiar with, so this course teaches students legal terminology and how it is used in legal proceedings and documents. Terms studied include those related to contracts, criminal defenses, real property, and civil litigation.
Legal Research and Writing
This class covers the research tools paralegals use to find information that bolsters arguments made in civil and criminal cases. Students learn to use legal databases like LexisNexis and Westlaw for this research. Students also gain skills needed to draft legal documents, properly cite cases, and edit a legal memorandum.
Introduction to Paralegalism
This course introduces students to the paralegal profession and the daily expectations employers have of paralegals. Topics covered include legal interviewing, wills and estates, contracts, legal research and writing, and paralegal ethics. In addition, students learn about paralegal work in different areas of the law, including business, criminal, civil, family, tort, and procedural law.
Law Office Technology
Students in law office technology classes learn the different computer systems that paralegals use daily. The class provides hands-on experience with technologies used to conduct legal research, control dockets, manage cases, and produce legal documents.
Paralegal Ethics
Paralegal ethics courses teach students how they are expected to behave as a member of the profession. Topics covered include attorney-client privilege, proper handling of fees and funds, conducting financial billings, and avoiding issues that can lead to a conflict of interest and malpractice.
Accreditation for Associate Degrees in Paralegal Studies Online
To ensure they are receiving the education that prepares them for the rigors of legal work, students should only enroll in programs approved by the American Bar Association. ABA approval means that schools have been evaluated for the quality of the curriculum and the ability of the program to best provide the theoretical knowledge and skills employers require. The ABA’s search tool makes it easy to find programs that have received the association’s seal of approval.
FAQs About Online Paralegal Associate Degree Programs
How long does it take to earn a paralegal associate degree online?
As a full-time student in an online paralegal associate degree program, you can generally graduate within a year and a half to two years. Students in online programs may be able to complete their degrees faster than those taking in-person paralegal programs because they can often take courses that can be finished within weeks rather than months. Generally, the curriculum for paralegal programs includes coursework amounting to about 90 credit hours.
How much do online paralegal studies associate degrees cost?
Students enrolling in online paralegal associate degree programs usually pay tuition costs comparable to those for traditional programs. In some cases, students pay less if their school charges by the credit hour rather than the semester. However, even if the tuition costs are the same as in-person programs, online students save money on transportation costs. You can find information more about funding your education in our financial aid guide. In addition, the table below highlights three online paralegal programs to give you a better idea of what you can expect to pay.
| School Name | No. of Credits | Cost/Credit | Total Tuition Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eastern Kentucky University | 64 | $409/Credit | $26,176 |
| National American University | 90.5 | $333/Credit | $30,137 |
| Rasmussen College | 90 | $260/Credit | $23,400 |
What are the admissions requirements for online paralegal associate degrees?
Admission requirements for online paralegal associate degree programs generally include the same basic requirements for admittance into most entry-level college programs. Those requirements include a high school diploma or GED and SAT or ACT scores. Every college is unique, though, so check with individual schools for specific admission requirements to make sure you follow their required admissions process.
Can I earn my paralegal associate degree 100% online?
Paralegal associate degree programs can be earned entirely online since they do not have courses with a lab component. However, some schools do require completion of hands-on experience through an internship in a legal setting.
Similar Programs You May Be Interested In
- Online Paralegal Certificate Programs
- Online Criminal Justice Associate Degrees
- Online Law Enforcement Degrees
What’s After Your Online Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies?
Before enrolling in a paralegal studies associate’s degree program, understand what schools have to offer but also what to expect after you complete your degree. This section discusses the career landscape for paralegals, including how much money they can make and the current job outlook.
How much can you make with a paralegal studies associate degree?
As of May 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for paralegals and legal assistants is $52,920 with the highest 10 percent of earners making $85,160 and the lowest 10 percent making $32,900. The top industries and median incomes for paralegals are the federal government ($69,490), finance and insurance ($66,390), local governments ($52,660), legal services ($50,600), and state governments ($48,070). For paralegals with associate degrees, PayScale indicates an average salary of $43,171 and a range of $26,000 to $83,000 per year.
Are paralegals in high demand?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegals and legal assistants are expected to see a 10 percent increase in jobs between 2019 and 2029. That amounts to an additional 35,300 jobs added to the profession. This growth is being driven by law firms looking for ways to make the cost of their services more competitive by hiring paralegals to perform tasks previously assigned to entry-level attorneys. Similarly, corporations are bringing more of their legal work in-house and hiring paralegals as part of internal legal departments.
Do I need certification or licensure to work as a paralegal?
Although paralegals aren’t required to earn a certification, getting a credential from organizations like NALS and the National Association of Legal Assistants can help you distinguish yourself in the competitive job market. In addition, employers are increasingly giving preference to candidates with certifications, so earning one can help you land a job.
While certifications are not mandatory, some states have specific rules that must be followed to work as a paralegal. For example, according to the American Bar Association, California, Washington, and Utah, require paralegals to earn a degree and also complete continuing education requirements.
I want to continue my studies, which advanced degrees can an online paralegal associate degree prepare me for?
If you want to continue your education, an online paralegal associate degree lays a strong foundation to help you move on to other programs. Graduates can go on to earn a bachelor’s in paralegal studies, online bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice, and online master’s degrees in criminal justice. Some even move on to the doctoral level and earn PhDs or DCJs.
Additional Resources for Paralegal Students and Professionals
Paralegal students and professionals can continue their learning through numerous industry resources. The following are ten of these helpful resources.
American Alliance of Paralegals
The American Alliance of Paralegals provides continuing education courses, legal news, and certification.
Association of Legal Administrators
Paralegals wanting to pursue management roles in firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments can get support from this organization.
American Association for Paralegal Education
This association is dedicated to promoting quality paralegal education.
CLE & Continuing Education for Paralegals
The Institute for Paralegal Education offers a variety of continuing education classes to help paralegals brush up on their knowledge and skills.
Educational Information for Paralegals
This page on the ABA’s website provides information on paralegal education programs.
This association for legal professionals provides the Accredited Legal Professional (ALP), Professional Legal Secretary (PLS), Certified Legal Professional (CLP), and Professional Paralegal (PP) certifications. It also gives related news and provides a job board.
National Association of Legal Assistants
The Paralegal Association, orNALA, provides educational opportunities, publications, and career assistance for legal assistants.
National Federation of Paralegal Associations
The NFPA provides professional development opportunities, certifications, publications, and networking and education events.
This page on the legal news website Lawyer Monthly is dedicated to issues related to paralegal work.
This podcast discusses trends in the paralegal field and provides tips on how to perform paralegal work.
