Paralegal Studies Degrees
A paralegal is a professional who provides legal support to lawyers. They do research, file briefs, and generally assist in trial and meeting preparation. Degrees in the field are designed to give students a broad overview of several areas of the law and help them launch careers at law firms, corporations and government agencies.
Best Paralegal Studies Bachelor's Degree Programs
| School | Tuition* | Acceptance Rate | Graduation Rate | Financial Aid % | Placement Services | Career Services | Accepts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Toledo | $10187 | 96% | 50% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 2 | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | $11154 | 77% | 71% | 75% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 3 | Minnesota State University Moorhead | $8954 | 65% | 53% | 93% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 4 | Grand Valley State University | $13180 | 83% | 67% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 5 | University of Mississippi | $8828 | 88% | 66% | 86% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 6 | Florida Gulf Coast University | $6118 | 67% | 50% | 77% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 7 | The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga | $9656 | 82% | 48% | 97% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 8 | Illinois State University | $12836 | 82% | 70% | 89% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 10 | Kent State University at Kent | $10602 | 86% | 62% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 11 | Roger Williams University | $35169 | 85% | 67% | 100% | No | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 12 | SUNY College of Technology at Canton | $8650 | 85% | 47% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 13 | The University of West Florida | $5776 | 31% | 46% | 90% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 14 | Southern Illinois University-Carbondale | $14722 | 66% | 48% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 15 | Eastern Michigan University | $13758 | 74% | 46% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 16 | University of Southern Mississippi | $8896 | 97% | 49% | 93% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 17 | Tarleton State University | $7851 | 56% | 49% | 87% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 18 | Indiana University-Purdue Global-Indianapolis | $9701 | 81% | 50% | 89% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 20 | Washburn University | $8704 | No Available Data (2019-2020) | 46% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 21 | Mississippi University for Women | $7525 | 97% | 40% | 97% | No | Yes | AP Credits |
| 22 | Stephen F Austin State University | $8844 | 68% | 52% | 86% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 23 | Stevenson University | $37142 | 81% | 60% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 24 | Lewis University | $33430 | 64% | 67% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 25 | Eastern Kentucky University | $9876 | 94% | 45% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 26 | East Central University | $7052 | 59% | 37% | 88% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 27 | Clarion University of Pennsylvania | $11149 | 95% | 52% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 28 | Roosevelt University | $30876 | 67% | 41% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE / NCCRS Credits |
| 29 | Lewis-Clark State College | $6982 | 100% | 38% | 94% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 30 | Nova Southeastern University | $32110 | 80% | 58% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 31 | Texas A & M University-Commerce | $8958 | 43% | 43% | 91% | No | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 32 | Western Kentucky University | $10802 | 97% | 48% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 33 | Liberty University | $16118 | 51% | 47% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 34 | Northern Michigan University | $11525 | 66% | 48% | 93% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 35 | Madonna University | $23100 | 75% | 60% | 97% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 36 | University of Richmond | $54690 | 28% | 89% | 64% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 37 | Grand View University | $28678 | 96% | 55% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 38 | Loyola University Chicago | $45543 | 67% | 74% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 39 | Idaho State University | $7872 | No Available Data (2019-2020) | 36% | 92% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 40 | Hampton University | $28024 | 36% | 60% | 96% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 41 | Regent University | $18620 | 86% | 57% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 42 | Suffolk University | $40104 | 84% | 58% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 43 | College of Saint Mary | $20750 | 49% | 57% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 44 | Tiffin University | $26110 | 69% | 39% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 45 | Bay Path University | $35081 | 72% | 54% | 95% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
| 46 | William Woods University | $24830 | 64% | 58% | 99% | Yes | Yes | AP / NCCRS Credits |
| 47 | Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College | $30500 | 67% | 56% | 100% | Yes | Yes | AP / ACE Credits |
| 48 | University of Hartford | $42182 | 76% | 59% | 98% | Yes | Yes | AP Credits |
To get a more in-depth look at our school ranking methodology, please visit our ranking methodology page.
Tuition information is based on published tuition and required fees, per data by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).
What Kinds of Paralegal Studies Degrees Are There?
Degrees in paralegal studies are available at the associate- bachelor's-levels; certificates are also available. Master's degrees and doctorates in paralegal studies are rare, but students may find programs in more advanced legal studies. At the undergraduate level, admission usually requires a high school education or equivalent G.E.D., as well as either an SAT or ACT score. We will explore each degree level in more detail below.
Associate Degrees in Paralegal Studies
Associate degrees, typically comprised of around 60-66 credits, take approximately 2 years full-time to complete. They generally offer less strict admissions requirements and more affordable tuition. A paralegal studies associate degree may give students the opportunity to take on entry-level positions in the field, though some employers may still prefer a bachelor's. In addition to career preparation, many credits from associate degrees can be transferred to a bachelor's program in a similar field if students choose to continue their education.
Bachelor's Degrees in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor's degrees in paralegal studies are usually more competitive to get into and come with higher tuition costs, though this can vary from program to program. The longer time frame will also allow the opportunity for deeper education in legal matters. Most schools will also include a general education requirement as well. These programs typically offer coursework in areas like legal writing, research, business management and introductions to different areas of the law. Students often get the chance to pursue opportunities for hands-on experiences such as paralegal internships and trips to watch the legal system at work.
Master's Degrees in Paralegal Studies
Though you might find a few degree programs at this level designed for paralegals (like a Master in Study of Law for Paralegals), most programs are in legal studies. These programs focus more on related areas of law that may make students more knowledgeable about specific areas without becoming a practicing attorney, such as corporate law for paralegals.
A master's degree typically takes 1-2 years, though some programs can be completed in as few as 9 months. A master's degree is not necessary to procure employment, though it may be preferred by employers at higher levels of employment, such as acting as a paralegal for some branches of the government.
Doctoral Degrees in Paralegal Studies
Doctoral degrees in paralegal studies are extremely rare. Students who are curious about higher degree options in the legal field might want to consider a Juris Doctor (JD), which will offer more career opportunities such as becoming an attorney. There are PhD opportunities available for legal studies, but these are typically meant to prepare existing lawyers for teaching opportunities and as such usually require a J.D. for entry.
Certificates in Paralegal Studies
Certificates in paralegal studies are available on several levels. There are options to earn a certificate with a high school diploma or G.E.D., which may offer a quick way to enter the workforce with minimal experience. Other certificates are conferred after an associate degree or along with a bachelor's degree by taking extra courses. There are also options for post-graduate certificates that may help students further demonstrate their knowledge.
It's important to note that a paralegal 'certificate' from an institution is not the same as a paralegal 'certification'. Certification is approval from a professional institution and can only be conferred through an American paralegal association after testing. Certificates can be helpful for education, but do not carry the same professional meaning as a certification.
Paralegal Studies Bachelor's Degree Concentrations
A concentration in a paralegal studies bachelor's degree program are designed to help students gain education and experience in a specific area of the field. Oftentimes, paralegal studies are the concentration for the broader field of legal studies. Law programs that offer concentrations within a paralegal studies degree program offer options within specific areas of law, such as:
- Criminal law, which consists of more courses focusing on the criminal justice system
- Corporate law, which allows students to learn more about laws pertinent to businesses
- Intellectual property law, which can offer students the ability to become more knowledgeable about things like copyrights and trademarks
Choosing a concentration within a paralegal studies degree is not always required. However, it can offer an advantage in terms of advanced experience in certain fields. If a student is interested in working in real estate, for example, they can seek out a program that will allow it as a concentration to demonstrate expertise to possible employers.
Curriculum for a Bachelor's Degree in Paralegal Studies
Exact course names and requirements will vary from program to program. However, there are some courses that are fairly common across bachelor's degree programs in paralegal studies:
- Introduction to Law, a course that lays the foundation for further study in the legal system
- Evidence and fact gathering, where students will be able to learn the principles and standards of court-ready exhibits
- Ethics, a course that offers the opportunity to examine moral conflicts and best practices in the paralegal profession
- Legal Research, where students can learn how to effectively collect accurate legal data for attorneys
Additionally, students can also expect to complete courses that cover writing and research more specifically, as well as additional less-related courses if there is a general education requirement. There is also the possibility of required internships or capstone projects.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Bachelor's in Paralegal Studies?
This program will likely require between 120-130 hours spread over 4 years if taken full-time. Part-time options vary by school and will allow students to take longer to complete their degrees, which can be helpful for working professionals. Students can speed up their studies by taking a heavier course load (more than 15 credits per semester), enrolling in summer courses and transferring in credits from AP courses or an associate's degree.
Accreditation for Bachelor's in Paralegal Studies Degrees
If a school has been accredited, this means that it has been officially approved by an independent agency that sets educational standards. These organizations have in turn been recognized by either the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA), the Department of Education, or both. Some examples of regional accreditation for schools include the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Students may want to attend an accredited school if they are planning on funding their education with federal financial aid. Those who are considering unaccredited programs should be cautious with their choice and carefully review the impact it may have on their degree experience.
Specifically for paralegal studies, the American Bar Association (ABA) also has a process they use to approve programs. As some paralegal certification tests and employers may prefer candidates from programs that have been approved by the ABA, students should also factor this into their final program decision.
Paralegal Studies Licensure & Certification
There is no licensure requirement to be a paralegal. However, the states of Utah, Washington, and California have certain regulations concerning the level of education needed to be a paralegal.
As for certification, the ABA will certify programs but not individuals. Some organizations have been approved to confer certification to individual paralegals, each of which requires exams. These are typically not required for entry-level employment, but rather serve as a demonstration of ability. Two of the most common certifications are offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA): the Certified Paralegal and the Advanced Certified Paralegal. Both require an exam.
What Can I Do With a Bachelor's Degree in Paralegal Studies?
A bachelor's degree in paralegal studies will allow students to start a career as a paralegal. These jobs are most commonly found in private firms. There are as many types of paralegals as there are law practices; there are intellectual property paralegals, real estate paralegals, and family law paralegals. Paralegals are also needed outside of the private sector, such as in nurse paralegals.
There are also other opportunities that the degree can help prepare students for as well. Those who don't wish to pursue the paralegal route might also find work as a compliance officer or a consultant. A bachelor's in paralegal studies will also help to prepare students for law school if they wish to continue their education. Some popular options for those with a bachelor's degree in this field include a criminal defense paralegal or a legal secretary.
How to Become a Criminal Defense Paralegal
Criminal defense paralegals support lawyers who are defending accused people in court, either through a private firm or the public defender's office. Given that the outcome of a trial can alter people's lives, this profession is extremely important and often carries a lot of pressure. Responsibilities can include filing court documents, reviewing evidence and records, and conducting legal research to support cases. The job setting is law offices and courthouses. While no certification or license is necessary, having specialized experience is often helpful to employment.
According to 2019 numbers from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics paralegals earn a median salary of $51,740 per year. The BLS projects a job outlook of 10% between 2019 and 2029. Washington, D.C. offers the highest salary for this occupation, followed by Colorado and California. To pursue this career, students should consider obtaining a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies from an accredited program that will cover criminal justice issues and offer internship opportunities with defense groups. They should then consider becoming certified by a respected institution. After that, it may be prudent to gain a few years of experience in similar court-centric jobs to build experience. Obtaining a certificate in an area such as criminal or juvenile law will also be helpful.
How to Become a Legal Secretary
Legal secretaries also act as support for lawyers, but in a more clerical way. Those with a degree in paralegal studies can apply it to this job's responsibilities of proofreading and legal filing, alongside such work as answering phones and supervising correspondence. Being a legal secretary requires exceptional amounts of organization and task management skills. Positions are available through every level of government as well as in private firms.
The BLS reports a median salary for legal secretaries of $47,300, with D.C, Massachusetts, and California paying the highest wages. To become a legal secretary, students should consider obtaining a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies to improve the odds of employment. Gaining secretarial experience during this time might also be advantageous. Concentrations should be chosen based on interest, as every area of law will need secretaries and there is no specific topic to study.
Financial Aid & Scholarship Information for Bachelor's in Paralegal Studies Degrees
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) offers financial aid to pay for college including grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. After federal financial aid, students might look into scholarships.
For minority students who have lived in Michigan or are attending an accredited school in Michigan, there's a scholarship that offers $2,000 for paralegal studies and $1,000 for those studying to be legal secretaries. Another option is the LEX scholarship, which is available to students attending an accredited school with a Lambda Epsilon Chi (LEX) chapter who write an application essay. There is a $1,500 reward for first place and $500 for second place.
Those already employed as a paralegal but wishing to gain their bachelor's should investigate the support available from their organization, as some employers will provide scholarships for enhanced education of their staff.
Should I Get a Bachelor's Degree in Paralegal Studies?
Those who are organized and possess an analytical mind and excellent research skills might be a good fit for a career as a paralegal. It can be an entry into a growing legal profession without the investment required to become a lawyer. A bachelor's in the field will also provide insight into the challenges of a law professional and could prove helpful if law school remains an option. However, those who are looking for a quicker entry into the working world or have less funding available may want to consider an associate degree instead and plan for a bachelor's degree after they've found employment.
Prerequisites for a Paralegal Studies Bachelor's Degree
A bachelor's in paralegal studies requires a high school diploma or a G.E.D. for enrollment. Specific courses are not typically required but taking courses that emphasize research and analysis will prepare students for the work required. Experience is not required but will similarly demonstrate ability and eagerness. Most undergraduate institutions will require an ACT or SAT for admission, alongside a resume, recommendation letters, personal statements, and transcripts.
