Top Online Associate Programs in Paralegal Studies
Updated October 12, 2022 · 2 Min Read
Jobs Can Range to Working in Court Houses to Working with lawyers
Paralegals are important members of any legal team. They help lawyers prepare for trials with their extensive research, notes, and reports. They keep on top of the legal trends and regulations, relevant laws and create legal articles for lawyers. Depending on the type of law practice they are in, their jobs can range from financial investigation to organizing evidence for court hearings.
Jobs for paralegals are now expanding beyond the legal arena. A growing number of public agencies and corporations are also employing paralegals to be a part of their workforce. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for paralegals and legal assistants will grow at a rate of 10% through 2024.
An Online Associates degree in paralegal studies will help kickstart an exciting career in this field. Leading programs offer a Paralegal Studies core with a general education curriculum. Students gain foundational knowledge which prepares them for the industry. Some include internship or practicum experiences which provide them with some hands-on learning opportunities as well.
For further, more generalized information on distance learning visit our ranking of the top online colleges.
Featured Online Paralegal Studies Programs
Featured Associates in Paralegal Studies Online Degree Programs
Points:16
The University of Providence In Great Falls offers an associates degree in Paralegal Studies in a blended format. Students are required to complete 10 credits on campus. The 28-credit course includes Introduction to Paralegalism, Commercial Law, Introduction Legal Analysis, Litigation and Trial Practice, Legal Research and Writing. Students need to undergo an internship to complete Field Experience in Legal Assistance and a capstone course. They tailor their degree by choosing two electives from Commercial Transactions, Property Law, Domestic and Family Law, Estate Law, Office Systems, Debtor-Creditor Law, and Legal Research Institute. By the end of the course, students are well-prepared to carry out essential paralegal tasks like draft documentation, writing and research effectively.
Points:15
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College offers an online associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies that is known to make students career-ready. Records show that over 90% of graduates are successful in finding employment immediately. The 39 credits coursework includes Legal Communication, Litigation, Theories of Liability, Legal Research, Ethics, Law, and Society, etc. Students have to complete a practicum to gain real-world experience. Students can accelerate coursework through transfer credits, previous work experiences, prior learning assessments, and alternative format courses.
Points:15
American Military University offers an online AS in Paralegal Studies that helps students develop and hone critical thinking, analytical and communication, and skills. The 62 credits coursework includes Introduction to Law for Paralegals, Real Estate Law, Litigation, Criminal Law and Procedure for the Paralegal, Legal Ethics, Legal Research and Writing. Students need to complete a seminar as well. Students have the option to accelerate the course via a generous transfer policy of up to 46 credits. Upon completion of the program, students are ready to take on all tasks related to the professional law offices.
Points:13
Bryant and Stratton College offers an Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies that teaches students paralegal skills like research, document preparation, client interaction, and ethical, legal practice. The 60 credits coursework includes Introduction to Legal Studies, Civil Litigation, Contract Law, Legal Research and Writing, Torts and Remedies, Criminal Law Procedure, Law Office Management and Technology, and a paralegal capstone. The curriculum is flexible, 100% online and build in a collaborative educational environment.
Points:12
Keiser University offers an Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies online that help students develop essential skills like critical thinking, communications, and legal writing. The 60 credits coursework includes legal research and writing; civil litigation; wills, trusts, and estates; family law; torts law; contracts, real property among others. Upon completion of the degree, students learn to carry out various legal functions like legal transactions and litigation research, case management, document drafting, and evidence gathering.