If working within the legal system appeals to you, finding the best online paralegal certification programs may be the next step in your educational journey.
Paralegals work under attorneys and are known to have great critical thinking and communication skills. They can work in fast-paced, exciting careers and often oversee research, contract drafting, or even evidence collecting in the industry they decide to work within.
If you are passionate about justice and legal practice, it may be time to begin your investigation into paralegal certification.
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Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
American Public University offers an online certified paralegal program. The program teaches about legal terminology, legal research methods, legal reasoning, and how to write legal documents. It is 24 credit hours long, and students can transfer up to 9 qualifying credit hours. Courses start monthly and range from 8 to 16 weeks long.
APUS is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Boston University offers a Paralegal Certificate online program designed to help students advance their careers.
In this program, students can learn from practicing attorneys. Courses are 14 weeks long, and tuition is all-inclusive. The curriculum includes modules on a variety of topics, such as the nuances of law and technology for paralegals.
Boston University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Cerro Coso Community College offers a Paralegal Certificate. Topics of study include the court system, legal research, client interviews and communication, legal ethics, preparation of legal documents, and federal and state civil procedures. The program can help prepare you for employment as a paralegal.
Cerro Coso Community College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Earning your Paralegal Certificate from Clovis Community College can help prepare you to assist attorneys with day-to-day functions in law offices. Topics covered in the curriculum include legal research, torts, communication skills, litigation, criminal law, criminal procedures, wills and estates, family law, and real estate law.
Clovis Community College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges Western Association of Schools and Colleges.
Duke University’s online programs include a Paralegal Certificate. Their 300 hour paralegal program is entirely online and self-paced. The coursework must be completed within one year. Applicants must already possess an associate’s degree. This program was designed with the needs of working adults in mind.
Duke University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Florida International University’s paralegal program is fully online. It is a 615 hour program that covers 12 different subject areas. It is taught by highly-credentialed judges and attorneys. The program consists of three trimesters, with 4 courses in each trimester. You only need a high school diploma or GED to apply.
Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Franklin Pierce offers an online certified paralegal program for adult learners. The program is 30 credit hours, or ten courses. There are five start dates per year. Topics covered include legal research and writing as well as specialized areas of law, such as torts, probate, litigation, real estate law, family law, and corporate law.
Franklin Pierce University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
At Holmes Community College, students can earn a Technical Certificate, Advanced Technical Certificate, or an Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Technology. Classes are available on multiple campuses and are 8 or 16 weeks long. Classes are offered in the mornings, and full-time students typically take 15 credit hours per term.
Holmes Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Kennesaw State University offers an online Paralegal Certificate program that can be started at any time. It is self-paced and can help prepare you for an entry-level paralegal position and the Certified Paralegal/Certified Legal Assistant certification exam. Students in the program are paired with an instructor to provide one-on-one assistance.
Kennesaw State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Lake Superior College offers a certificate in Paralegal Studies both on campus and online. If prerequisites have been completed, the program can typically be completed within just one year.
The curriculum covers legal terminology, the American legal system, state and federal court rules and procedures, ethical obligations, and proper methods for conducting interviews.
Lake Superior College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Universities.
Liberty University offers a 100% online undergraduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies. Classes are 8 weeks long, and the certificate typically takes one year to complete.
Coursework includes Legal Research, Legal Writing, Foundations of Law, and Civil Practice. The program requires 18 credit hours, and if qualifying credits are available, up to 75% of the total credits that are needed can be transferred in.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Louisiana State University offers an online Paralegal Certificate program that is approved by the American Bar Association. It includes 8 courses taught by experienced instructors, 2 of which are electives. It also includes a 150 hour internship and an online legal ethics seminar. Night courses and other convenient scheduling options are available.
Louisiana State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
At Mississippi College, students can earn a 27 hour Post-baccalaureate Paralegal Studies Certificate.
A minimum of 15 credit hours must be completed at Mississippi College, and transferred courses must have a grade of at least a C. The curriculum covers legal research and bibliography, legal writing, wills and estates, and the mechanics of property transactions.
Mississippi College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
At Northwest Mississippi Community College, students can take a fully online program for a Certificate in Paralegal Technology.
This program can help prepare students for employment at public and private law practices, government offices, and corporate offices. The career certificate is 30 credit hours long, and the technical certificate is 45 credit hours.
Northwest Mississippi Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Ocean County College offers an online program for a Certificate of Proficiency in Paralegal Studies.
The program can help prepare you for entry-level employment in a law office. All courses in the certificate program can also be applied to Ocean County College’s Associate in Applied Science in Business—Paralegal Studies.
OCC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
At Post University, students can earn a Certificate in Paralegal Studies either on campus or online. Students in the program are assigned a personal academic advisor to provide support. Coursework includes an introductory course in law, a computing course, two survey courses in business law, and a civil litigation course.
Post University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
A Paralegal/Legal Assistant Certificate can be earned on campus or online at Prince George’s Community College. To earn the certificate, students must complete 30 credit hours.
Both programs are designed to help student develop skills in research, alternative dispute resolution, interviewing witnesses, drafting motions, interrogatories, and pleadings. Earning this certificate can help prepare for employment at a law firm, government agency, or corporation.
PGCC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The Paralegal Certificate program from Rasmussen University can typically be completed in as few as 8 months.
This program is designed for students who have already earned an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree. The program can be completed online, but online students still have access to campus support and resources. Online and on-campus students are required to complete field experience.
Rasmussen University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
The Paralegal Certificate program from Tompkins Cortland Community College requires 32 credit hours and can be completed entirely online. Coursework covers legal research and drafting, civil litigation, real estate law, wills and estate planning, family law, and legal ethics. Students must also complete an internship at a law office.
Tompkins Cortland Community College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
At Umpqua Community College, students can typically earn a Legal Assistant Certificate in just one year.
The program is convenient, flexible, and entirely online. There are four start dates each year. The certificate can help students gain employment as legal assistants at law firms, businesses, insurance companies, public agencies, or government offices.
Umpqua Community College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The University of California—Berkeley offers an online Certificate in Paralegal Studies program. It can typically be completed in 6 months to 1 year.
Students can learn from practicing attorneys and have access to courses 24/7. The program is designed to teach how to conduct legal research, organize case files, communicate with clients, and other such skills.
The University of California-Berkeley is accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.
The University of Georgia’s online certification program is a 90 hour program with courses starting bi-monthly.
Topics of study include legal terminology, the rules of evidence and civil procedure, basic interviewing and investigation techniques, and research skills. Courses also cover how to prepare legal documents and how to identify relevant law.
The University of Georgia is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Massachusetts—Lowell offers a Certificate in Paralegal Studies that can be earned entirely online or as a mix of online and on-campus classes. It requires just 6 courses and can usually be completed in 9 months. This program is designed to help students learn legal theory and practical skills.
The University of Massachusetts Lowell is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Texas—Austin offers a Paralegal Certificate program online. This is a self-paced program that must be completed within one year. Students have access to an instructor to grade exams and answer questions. Prospective students may find this program easier if they already possess an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
The University of Texas at Austin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
At Yavapai College, students can earn a Certificate in Paralegal Studies. This is a 30 credit hour program.
Coursework includes studies in legal computer applications, ethics and the law, contracts, legal research and writing, and civil tort litigation. Other topics of study include substantive criminal law, procedural criminal law, neuroscience and the law, and constitutional law.
Yavapai College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
An online paralegal certificate program allows you to cultivate the necessary skill set to be a competitive candidate in the paralegal profession.
A certified paralegal helps lawyers through specialized research to allow them to successfully navigate trials, meetings, and court hearings. They may also be involved in the preparation of legal documentation.
Paralegal training includes a broad overview of the American law system and prepares students for working in the paralegal profession. Some of the course topics you may come across in your studies include:
Paralegals work in a variety of legal industries. Here are some industries you may find yourself working in following paralegal training:
This certified paralegal program can allow you to learn the core concepts and foundational understandings of the field of law. You may use this as a stepping stone to pursue additional educational ventures within law, or you can take this certificate directly into the workforce.
Paralegal certificate programs can help prepare you for paralegal work in a wide variety of organizations. Most graduates choose to pursue work in law offices or in corporate legal departments.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the number of jobs for a paralegal and legal assistant is projected to grow 10% in the next ten years. The following are paralegal positions and related occupations.
Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants, Grantmaking and Giving Services | $72,990 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants, Management of Companies and Enterprises | $72,720 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants, Federal Government | $69,490 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants, Finance and Insurance | $66,390 |
Legal Support Workers | $52,960 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants, All | $52,920 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants, Local Government | $52,660 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants, Legal Services | $50,600 |
Legal Secretaries and Administrative Services | $48,980 |
Paralegals and Legal Assistants, State Government | $48,070 |
If you don’t already hold have one, the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggests pursuing a bachelors degree after obtaining your certificate to increase your chances of working in the industry of your choice.
The foundational understanding of general law is a necessary aspect of the certified paralegal program. You’ll find a wide variety of potential courses when pursuing this certification.
Here are a few courses you may find yourself enrolled in:
These are just a few of the courses you may find yourself enrolled in while pursuing an online certified paralegal program.
Before you pursue your online paralegal certificate program, here are some factors you may want to consider prior to committing to a school.
It’s strategic to do additional independent research before you choose a program, and the information you find here may help you narrow your search.
So you want to become a paralegal—a well-respected and in-demand role in a variety of legal industries. But how does one become a certified paralegal? Here are a few steps that outline the process.
Finding work that suits your interest in the paralegal profession and prior experience is ideal, but you may have to settle for a different avenue of law in order to gain employment as a certified professional paralegal when you’re first starting out.
Though the admission requirements for paralegal certification programs vary greatly from school to school, here are some common criteria you may encounter:
Many programs are designed for those who already hold an associate or bachelors degree in any field. There are some certified paralegal programs, though, that accept candidates with a high school diploma or GED.
Regional accreditation is important, especially for a certificate involving national and state laws.
The US Department of Education lists postsecondary schools that follow their new and highly regulated standards and criteria of accreditation. You can always check to see that your school or educational program is on their list.
Not only is regional accreditation an eligibility factor for credit transfers, but it can also ensure that your certification is recognized nationwide.
If you are looking to pursue a certified paralegal program, it’s strategic to choose a program that’s accredited by the American Bar Association. A program with ABA accreditation has met the legal criteria and standards for the law field in the United States.
The ABA has only accredited around 25% of the paralegal certification courses, so completing an ABA accredited program may demonstrate your dedication to the certified professional paralegal profession. Being accredited by the ABA does not mean you have met the requirements of the Bar. It only means that the program is in compliance with ABA standards.
Paralegal professional certification can show your dedication to a standard of excellence and can help you advance your expertise and career in the field. There are numerous paralegal certification exam options you can consider taking.
Procuring certification through a paralegal certification exam can help you demonstrate your knowledge, training, and qualifications to employers.
If you’re hoping to receive financial assistance, you can start by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
The FAFSA application is easy to complete and determines your eligibility for federal grants and loans. Student loans can often have lower interest rates than traditional loans. You can also research what your state offers with regards to financial educational assistance.
Work-study internships are another option that may help fund your schooling. The National Federation of Paralegal Associations has scholarship opportunities available as well.
Being a part of a professional organization is not a necessity, but joining an association of legal assistants can be beneficial for many reasons. It allows you the opportunity to network with legal professionals in your industry, it provides you with professional development opportunities, and it offers you protection within your field.
Here are a few paralegal professional organizations you may consider joining:
Professional organizations also generally offer access to job postings and free educational documentation.
A paralegal is someone who works under an attorney and oversees and performs legal tasks. Paralegals can work in challenging and fast-paced environments, and they are highly-valued members of legal teams and firms.
They often have extensive communication skills and competency in legal matters in order to assist the organization within which they work.
A paralegal is not a qualified lawyer, so they cannot represent clients or offer legal advice. Paralegals assist attorneys and perform independent research to advise and organize legal work for the legal professionals they work for. They are given delegated legal work and can be employed in a large variety of industries under the law umbrella.
Paralegals collect and document evidence, perform legal tasks, and offer legal assistance within their organization. They may draft contracts, organize legal real estate documentation, or assist attorneys in the defense of clients for injury claims or criminal law.
Paralegals work in a wide variety of industries. Many professionals pursue a bachelors degree in order to gain a competitive advantage in the industry, but you may still pursue opportunities in the field following your certification program.
Current paralegal professionals are employed in the fields of education, healthcare, government, real estate, and more. While a paralegal certification does not guarantee employment, it can offer the knowledge and training needed to pursue job opportunities.
Whether you should become a paralegal is your decision, but it may help to compare your interests and aptitudes to legal work.
It’s beneficial for paralegals to be skillful at oral and written communication. This role requires extensive organization as well. It’s also helpful to be adaptable, as you are reporting to the attorney and other legal professionals you work for.
If the thought of being involved in cases excites you, you may enjoy the work of a paralegal. With the right credentials, you may be able to enter the law specialization that interests you most, such as environmental law, family law, civil law, or criminal law.
Depending on your position and workplace, you may not have to spend all your time at a desk. In addition, the job outlook for paralegals is positive, with employment growing much faster than the average for all occupations.
There are numerous paralegal educational programs that can lead to a career in the field. Many paralegals who are actively working hold a bachelors degree and a paralegal certification. Some people in the field hold paralegal associate degree. Others have found employment with just a paralegal certificate.
The duties of a paralegal do not require a bachelors or masters degree. Sufficient training and development of legal skills—such as writing, research, and technology—can be obtained through a certification program.
Any additional education in legal studies can increase your employment opportunities. Ensuring that paralegal educational programs are approved by the American Bar Association can also assist you in obtaining work as a paralegal.
The length of time that it takes to become a paralegal depends on the paralegal educational programs you choose. Many people don’t anticipate becoming a paralegal until they’ve already begun their educational journey. Others begin studying law immediately after high school.
You may earn your certificate in 6 months or less, but many individuals choose to extend their educational careers to open themselves up to more employment opportunities.
If you choose to pursue an associate degree, that is often an additional 2 years of study. A bachelor’s program in paralegal studies generally takes around 4 years. You don’t need an associates or bachelors degree in the field to become a paralegal. You can pursue paralegal jobs with the proper certificate and training.
Yes, many accredited online paralegal programs can lead to the opportunity of working in the legal field. To confirm the legitimacy of a program, you can ensure it is regionally accredited.
Only 25% of paralegal programs are accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA), so there are many legitimate, regionally accredited programs that are not ABA accredited. Enrolling in an ABA accredited program, though, may give you a competitive edge when applying to jobs down the road.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that law firms are hiring more paralegals to help increase the efficiency of their legal services. This has caused an increase in demand for paralegals.
There are numerous paths you may take with a certificate in paralegal studies. You have the opportunity to work in a variety of industries, and your duties can be quite different depending on the field you’re in. You may find yourself assisting attorneys in different industries and various legal areas. Some specialty areas include criminal law, personal injury, contract law, or immigration law, just to name a few.
Paralegals may also find themselves working on cases or even alongside attorneys in a court of law. They may also conduct research for lawyers and organize evidence for hearings.
Certified paralegal programs typically take 6 months to 1 year to complete. There are also accelerated online paralegal programs that allow you to finish even faster.
You may find that your certificate takes you longer to obtain if you are taking a part-time course load or working at the same time. Some schools have you participate in an internship as part of your credit towards the certification. An internship may take up an additional 3 to 6 months of your schooling time.
Though many paralegal certification programs are accredited by the American Bar Association, this does not make you a lawyer.
The standards for a lawyer are far higher than those for a paralegal, and a lawyer’s educational journey is far longer. In addition, the average salary for a lawyer is also much higher.
A legal secretary focuses more on the administrative tasks within a law office.
Paralegal | Legal Secretary |
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Paralegals, who must complete a approved certificate or degree program, also tend to make a higher average salary than legal secretaries, who usually take part in legal secretaries training.
A paralegal certificate and a paralegal degree can both train you to work as a paralegal, but there are differences that should be noted.
Both graduates of certificate programs and degree programs can go on to pursue professional certification.
Yes, getting a paralegal certificate is worth it for many students. It can be a quick and valuable way to get your foot in the door in the legal avenue of many different industries. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 10% job growth for paralegals and legal assistants over the next ten years, which is much faster than the average growth.
A paralegal certificate can help you train for a career in the legal field with limited schooling. If you have a passion for law and excellent communication and organizational skills, you may want to consider enrolling in a certificate program.
Starting your educational journey in the world of law and legal matters can begin with an online certified paralegal program. This type of program trains you to work alongside attorneys in this ever-growing job sector.
A paralegal plays an essential role in legal organizations, and their work can be dynamic and fast-paced. You may also have the opportunity to work in various specialized industries that aren’t limited to an office of a law firm.
If you’re ready to embark on a new path in the field of law, start by researching online approved certificate programs from accredited universities and consider online law school or an online LLM degree to further advance your paralegal certification.
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