Online Associate Degrees in Paralegal Studies: Comparing Schools

Explore Online Paralegal Programs

Paralegal associate programs qualify students for entry level legal positions such as legal assistants and paralegals. In 60 to 90 credits (about two years of study), students will learn about legal writing and research, litigation, legal administration, computer applications, family law, criminal law, and probate practice. Because most of the coursework is didactic, paralegal associate programs conform well to the online learning model. However, some programs might require you to complete an in-person internship to allow you to practice the skills you learn.

To give you a more specific idea of how online associate degree programs in paralegal studies are structured, we have profiled three accredited programs that prepare students for multiple paralegal certification exams.

Answering Key Questions for Paralegal Students

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.

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.

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.

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. In general, you can expect to pay $25,000 to $35,000 for your associates degree. For example, total tuition cost for Rasmussen College is $26,550 while the total tuition cost for National American University is $32,65.50. Keep in mind that these numbers are before financial aid is awarded. There are many scholarships for paralegal students to apply for.

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.

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.

Curriculum of Remote Paralegal Programs

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Earnings and Job Trends for Paralegals

Court Reporters

Court reporters are responsible for transcribing trials, depositions, and other legal proceedings. Typically, court reporters use special equipment such as stenography machines and digital recording devices to report speakers’ words, gestures, and actions. To become a court reporter, you need to complete a postsecondary certificate program and a relevant college degree, such as an associate degree in paralegal studies. Court reporters were paid around the median annual salary of $63,940 in 2023, and this career has a slower than average projected employment growth of two percent.

Insurance Claims Examiners

Insurance claims examiners investigate, analyze, and settle insurance claims. Occasionally, insurance claims adjusters will talk with their company’s legal counsel to get additional information on questionable claims. You could work in health, life, auto, or real estate insurance. The median annual pay as of 2023 was $75,020. Employment for this career is projected to decline five percent by 2033.

Paralegal/Legal Assistant

Paralegals and legal assistants support lawyers by organizing files, conducting research, and drafting documents. Often legal assistants are under the supervision of paralegals, but they perform similar tasks. The day-to-day responsibilities of both professions are researching laws, regulations, and legal articles relevant to a case; drafting correspondence and legal documents; and handling exhibits during trials. As of May 2023, the median salary was $60,970. This field has a limited employment growth rate of one percent.

Resources for Paralegal Students

Below is a list of multiple student-friendly resources that can help paralegal students find available scholarships, develop their professional network, and find mentorship.

• American Alliance of Paralegals, Inc.
  For over 20 years, this organization has been committed to advancing the paralegal profession. The American Alliance of Paralegals holds regular events and cost-effective training opportunities that enhance the knowledge and skills of its members.
• American Bar Association
  The American Bar Association provides resources for legal professionals and advocates for quality legal education. Paralegals can find insightful information on compensation, job duties, and employment opportunities.
• How to Become a Paralegal
  Our page on How to Become a Paralegal walks you through the process Step-by-Step from deciding if the career is right for you, to finding a program, to looking for jobs.
• Institute for Paralegal Education
  The Institute for Paralegal Education offers continued education for paralegals. The organization offers hundreds of live and on-demand courses that have helped over 60,000 professionals develop new skills and knowledge.
• Laws.com
  This website provides knowledge on a wide range of legal topics, including statutes, state laws, bills, criminal law, immigration, and intellectual property.
• NALA The Paralegal Association
  For nearly 50 years, NALA has been providing professional development and networking opportunities for paralegals to help them advance their careers. The organization also holds professional certification programs to bolster your resume.
• National Federation of Paralegal Associations, Inc.
  As the first national paralegal association, this organization represents over 4,000 members globally and strives to advance the paralegal profession.
• National Association for Legal Support Professionals
  This association helps paralegals stay up to date with the tools, skills, and resources needed to advance in the profession. Members can connect with other legal professionals for career guidance and support.
• Paralegal Bootcamp
  The Paralegal Bootcamp is a training program offered by an experienced paralegal to help others get on-the-job training prior to their first role.

Best-in-Class List of Online Paralegal Programs

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. If you would like more information about STEPS’s ranking methodology, visit the “About the Rankings” pop-up below.