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What is a Paralegal?

A paralegal works as an assistant to practitioners of law. A paralegal degree assists individuals by educating them in the various functions of a paralegal, as well as the law itself. Paralegals are tasked with researching cases, filing information, summarizing studies, and constructing notes. A paralegal cannot perform certain functions, such as set rates or consult clients, sign forms or appear in court, but they are necessary for the analyses and review of material. Many paralegals will specialize in a particular area of expertise, further differentiating them from lawyers who are required to have a much broader understanding of the law and its various components.  Paralegals may research case law for legal precedents that may be relevant to the case, obtain sworn statements from associated parties in the case, drafting legal documents, along with being tasked to keep information organized for the attorney-of-record.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$53,180

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

30.31%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

277,310

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Paralegal Programs

Qualified students can earn a degree in Paralegal Studies at the University of Richmond. They offer two undergraduate programs of study in paralegal studies: Bachelor of Science and Post-Bachelor’s Certificate Program. These programs guarantee that students will learn from the experts in the field. They will develop skills and critical understanding that is essential in assisting attorneys in the preparation of legal documents. They also promise that students who choose either of these programs will be engaged in the legal system. 

Acceptance Rate

28.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Tulane University of Louisiana offers a top ranked degree in paralegal studies. The curriculum they provide for Paralegal Studies solely focuses upon legal skills and substantive law courses. It culminates in a practicum course where students complete a 100-hour internship in a law office. Additionally, their students are also able to develop job search skills even inside the classroom. They will be taught and guided by practicing attorneys and paralegals. 

Acceptance Rate

12.87

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Bentley College has a number of high quality academic programs for prospective students to study.  As an example, Public Policy majors learn how to drive political processes to serve citizens. Students are trained in navigating complex issues like national security, education and immigration that creates generational change. Bentley was the first university in Massachusetts to offer this undergraduate program in Public Policy degree. Today, Bentley is the leading educator in this discipline with a broad-base of additional academic programs to support their robust public policy degree program. 

Acceptance Rate

46.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

George Washington University is currently offering a Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies. This certificate will serve as the credential one might need in order to advance within the field of paralegal profession. This program contains the foundational courses that are designed to prepare individuals to enter the field with confidence and acumen. Those who completed this program acquired the knowledge and skills that helped them enter the paralegal profession. 

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The University of Providence partnered with the U.S. Army and Air Force provide a bachelor’s level paralegal degree program to their enlisted personnel with a special tuition rate. This has an online format that is accessible and flexible. The programs are approved by the American bar Association which verifies its capability to prepare Army and Air Force paralegals for more challenging paralegal positions or for law school. The kind of education that UP offers combines critical thinking with an emphasis on real-world, practical applications. 

Acceptance Rate

47.46

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Marist College is currently offering a Paralegal Certificate degree. This program is best suited for those who enjoy dealing with legal issues. This field experienced huge growth for over the past 30 years and is still expected to be one of the fastest growing over the next 10 years. This program is designed to teach students how to properly conduct research, investigate facts, interview clients and witnesses and analyze and draft documents. 

Acceptance Rate

49.23

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

University of San Diego can help you enter a dynamic profession and become a valued member of a legal team through their Paralegal Program. It is an ABA-approved Paralegal Certificate Program whose graduates are proven to be well prepared to assist in the effective delivery of legal services in private and public sectors of the society. Students will be prepared to become members of a legal team that works under the supervision of attorneys. Paralegals can ensure professional representation of clients while reducing the cost of legal services. 

Acceptance Rate

48.69

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The University of La Verne is currently offering a Paralegal Studies Certificate. This program was approved by the American Bar Association. Students who took this program are taught how to effectively work under the supervision of an attorney. They will also learn how to perform work for which an attorney is responsible. To be admitted in this program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or 60 semester hours from a regionally accredited college.

Acceptance Rate

54.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Rockhurst University is currently offering a highly respected Paralegal Certificate program. Students in this program tend to deepen their appreciation and understanding of the legal fundamental system concepts and procedures of the American legal system. They gained wider knowledge about the role, value, and limitations of the paralegal in the American Legal System. The program will teach students how to show high standards of legal ethics and professional behavior. 

Acceptance Rate

63.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Plaza College offers a top rated Paralegal Online degree that is conferred as an associate degree.  The rigorous course at Plaza College was constructed to help enrolled students learn how to effectively conduct research, organize documentation, and draft legal documentation.  Classes that students can expect to take in the paralegal degree program include law, business, litigation, and legal writing.  Learn more about this exceptional program offered by Plaza College today. 

Acceptance Rate

29.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

28:1

Loyola University Chicago’s Institute of Paralegal Studies currently offers all courses online. This was made in response to Covid pandemic with a recent ABA-approval. This online program in Paralegal Studies is tailored to help students grow their career. The online program will also be capable of teaching effectively to students how to develop applicable skills which leads the path to a more enhanced opportunity. 

Acceptance Rate

67.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Hampton University offers a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Paralegal Studies. This four-year degree program is designed not only to prepare new entrants into the paralegal field but also to provide opportunities for practicing paralegal professionals that will enhance their career credentials. Those who complete this program will be well prepared to participate as efficient members of legal teams. Additionally, a Certificate in Paralegal Studies is also available. This is constructed to train individuals so they’ll perform effectively as paralegals under the supervision of an attorney both in public and private practice. 

Acceptance Rate

36

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Lewis University offers a B.A. in Paralegal Studies. Their students will be privileged to be taught by experienced faculty with real-world understanding and connections. They make sure to always provide an evolving curriculum that will give the ultra-practical and career-focused knowledge. They maintain small class sizes, facilitate group interaction and a dynamic learning environment. 

Acceptance Rate

63.9

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Hamline University is currently offering a Graduate Paralegal Certificate program.  Approved by the American Bar Association, they prove to have the national hallmark of excellence that is required by many companies. ABA’s approval and the community’s recognition was paired by Hamline with their unique pairing of practical legal training and the liberal arts. This makes Hamline’s Paralegal education highly valued by employers.  

Acceptance Rate

67.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

At Meredith College, you can gain the skills to be a strong paralegal. They claim that there is only one American Bar Association approved paralegal program in the Triangle, and that is what Meredith College offers. In their Paralegal degree program, students learn how to conduct research and analyze cases. They will gain experience through a pro bono clinic and build a network of connections in the legal system. 

Acceptance Rate

64.72

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

At Marian University, you can become a paralegal in as little as 14 months through the online Paralegal Associate Degree that they offer. This program makes it possible for students to have full control of their professional trajectory. This program is structured to prepare students to become a leader in this fast-growing field. They proudly announce that attorneys and paralegals serve as adjunct instructors in this online paralegal studies program. 

Acceptance Rate

61.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

University of Evansville currently offers a Minor in Paralegal Studies housed within the University of Evansville’s Department of Law, Politics, and Society. It is designed to provide a pre-professional course of study which better prepares students for law school, graduate school or be employed in the legal professions. Students who earned this minor show more in-depth knowledge and awareness of legal issues not just in the US but around the world. Those who plan to enter the legal profession are advised by the University of Evansville to pursue baccalaureate degrees in academic areas best suited to their interests. 

Acceptance Rate

70.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Daemen College offers an undergraduate program and a certificate program in Paralegal Studies. Their BS program in Paralegal Studies is approved by the American Bar Association making it one of two ABA approved programs in Western New York. Fully 95% of this program’s graduates were employed, or attended law school or graduate school within six months of graduation. While the Certificate Program in Paralegal Studies can be finished in as little as two semesters and is available to undergraduate Daemen students or any student with a four-year degree.

Acceptance Rate

61.56

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Saint Francis University’s unique offer is a Program in Pre-Law and Paralegal Studies. Their Pre-Law Concentration is an excellent preparation for students interested in pursuing a law degree after college or for those who want to join the legal profession in other capacities, paralegal field just to name an example. Pre-law students who took pre-law electives in a deliberate manner can complete the Paralegal Minor without taking any additional credits, which is a great opportunity for students who are not sure about making a commitment to law school. As students complete the paralegal minor, they can get a job in a legal setting, receive a salary, have a taste of this profession then decide if they want to go to a maw school. 

Acceptance Rate

74.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

The Political Science Program at The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey offers a Bachelor of Arts with concentrations in Pre-Law, Social Science Education, General Political Science and International Affairs. Students will focus on the analysis of the power relationships and decision-making patterns which shape and determine the outcomes of vital social and policy issues. Which means that students who took this program will be much involved in the study of government. They will be exposed in the arena where public issues are raised and resolved. 

Acceptance Rate

76.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Mississippi College offers a highly respected, top ranked Paralegal degree. Their programs are designed to seek to teach students about legal ethics and introduce them to major areas of law. Students will receive training and learn how to draft legal documents and perform legal research. They will be exposed to state and federal court systems and procedures and be qualified for beginning assignments as a paralegal. 

Acceptance Rate

42.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The School of law at the College of Our Lady of the Elms offers a unique undergraduate 3+3 Law program. This accelerated program makes it possible for the qualified students to earn the bachelor and juris doctor degrees in just six years instead of seven. Candidates must have a grade point average of 3.3 and should score at the 50th percentile on the LSAT. This program is designed to enable the students to emerge two passions – their primary major and an interest in law. 

Acceptance Rate

75.09

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

International Business College – Indianapolis is currently offering a degree in Paralegal. They aim to develop Paralegals that will increase the efficiency of a legal firm by being able to perform various challenging legal tasks under the supervision of a licensed attorney. They train students on how to conduct witness interviews, perform legal research, draft legal documents and communicate directly with clients. They aim to help students excel in the legal field by helping them develop an eye for detail, become skilled organizers and be able to work well on a team. 

Acceptance Rate

79.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Avila University offers a leading Major in Criminology and Social Justice. Through this program’s well-rounded curriculum and an emphasis in leadership development, students are trained for a successful career in areas ranging from law enforcement to victim services. Students will be exposed to an array of perspectives on the criminal justice system. These small courses and individualized attention that Avila provides mean that each student will have a direct contact with strong faculty that are actively engaged in scholarship. 

Acceptance Rate

41.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Webster University’s program in Paralegal Studies is housed in their College of Arts & Sciences. This is currently available online, at the gateway Campus and at the St. louis home campus. This Graduate Paralegal Certificate Program is approved by the ABA and is the only ABA program in the St. Louis area. The coursework that this program provides is designed to impart broad understanding of the legal environment to students. This program attracts those who need additional legal knowledge to function more effectively. 

Acceptance Rate

56.88

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Educational Requirements for Paralegals

Degrees for paralegal studies begin at the associate level, with bachelors and masters degree programs available to interested students. Individuals wishing to pursue an education as a paralegal may do so through their local community college, taking on a two year curriculum that provides the basic skills necessary for employment in a law firm and the ability to perform one's duties without issue. Higher levels of education are primarily for specialization or in depth legal expertise.

A curriculum in paralegal studies may include:

  • Legal Research and Writing
  • Introduction to Law
  • Litigation
  • Contract Law
  • Ethics and Professional Responsibility

How to Become a Paralegal

In order to become a paralegal, you will need to meet a set of minimum standards and employment qualifications. NALA has established a set of (7) standards for paralegals that include:

  1. Graduation from an ABA approved program
  2. Successful completion of the Certified Paralegal examination
  3. A baccalaureate degree in any field with at least six months training as a paralegal
  4. Graduation from an accredited paralegal program with at least 60 hours of classroom credit hours
  5. Paralegal course completion plus at least six months of in-house training as a paralegal
  6. At least three years of job experience under the direct supervision of an attorney with a minimum of six months training as a paralegal
  7. A minimum of two years training as a paralegal

Top Skills of a Paralegal

A recent survey performed by the U.S. Department of Labor of paralegal professionals revealed the top skills required for the profession. The top five skills listed in the survey include the following items:

  1. Communication the ability to understand both written and oral communication from associates and clients.
  2. Legal Knowledge the breadth and depth of legal information including legal documents, legal codes, precedents, court procedures, agency rules, government regulations, and the like.
  3. Clerical Duties knowledge of clerical processes such as word processing, transcription, office procedures, managing files, and legal terminology.
  4. Computers ability to input and store critical information about cases and legal proceedings.
  5. Customer Service keen sense of customer needs and ability to meet & exceed these needs in order to achieve a firms overarching goals.

Do You Need a Degree to Become a Paralegal?

The short answer is that you do not need to have a college degree to become a paralegal. At minimum, you will need to earn a certificate in paralegal studies from an accredited college or university. While the majority of paralegal programs are degree programs, you may elect to earn a paralegal studies certificate as well. The paralegal certificate program is a 18-24 credit hour program indented to provide students with the essentials to step into an entry-level paralegal position with little to no general education college courses. Classes for the paralegal studies program may include classes such as:

  • Introduction to Paralegal Studies
  • Civil Practice
  • Tort Law
  • Legal Research and Legal Writing
  • Criminal Practice
  • Foundations of Law
  • Real Estate Law

It is important to distinguish between the paralegal undergraduate certificate program mentioned above from the post-baccalaureate certificate program. The initial certificate program for a paralegal is designed for students just out of high school or working professionals looking to make a career change with no prior experience in the legal field. On the other hand, the post-baccalaureate certificate program for paralegals is for students who have already earned a college degree that includes foundational general education classes like philosophy, English composition, sociology, and math. These courses provide students with the tools to think about the work differently and provide the academic launching pad to take upper-level courses from a number of different areas of study.

A post-baccalaureate certificate for paralegals can range from 18 credit hours to 45 credit hours depending on the program and schools curricular design. For those industry professionals working on this type of certificate, it is often motivated by pending job opportunities and professional development. In turn, the post-baccalaureate paralegal certificate program will most often carry substantive weight to employers as they are seen as a beneficial step in the career of a paralegal.

Top Paralegal Degrees

Paralegal Certificate Programs. A number of accredited colleges and universities offer paralegal certificate programs that span from 18-45 semester units. The programs that are longer will typically include general education and core paralegal classes, akin to associate level degree programs.

Paralegal Associate Degree Programs. An associate degree program for a paralegal will often be offered 2-year community colleges, 4-year colleges, and select business schools. Students will need to complete sixty to seventy semester units to earn an associates degree. The curriculum for an associates degree will be a combination of core legal courses plus general education classes.

Paralegal Bachelor Degree Programs. Four-year colleges and universities offer a variety of paralegal degree programs including a bachelors degree track in paralegal studies, a minor in paralegal studies, as well as a concentration of paralegal studies within a declared major. Depending on the college or university, the bachelor degree program will be around 120 semester units with around half of the units being in legal studies and associated classes.

Paralegal Master's Degree Programs. A handful of accredited colleges offer a masters degree program in paralegal studies or Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.) degree. These upper-level courses will fuse together philosophical, theoretical, and historical law with real-world applications. Programs will often leverage government, finance, international business, business, and technology sectors to ensure relevance and applicability for students and practitioners.

Employment Opportunities for Paralegals

Though it is not required to obtain a certificate or degree in paralegal studies in order to obtain work as a paralegal, there are some distinct advantages. As with most jobs, an educated individual tends to edge out otherwise equally qualified applicants; additionally some employers may require a degree, widening the opportunities for individuals who have taken the time to study. Individuals with degrees tend to have higher annual salaries and are more likely to find opportunities for promotion. An individual with a paralegal studies degree may return to school and pursue a law degree.

Paralegals are essential to the operation of a law office. A lawyer's time is precious and must be utilized efficiently. A lawyer bogged down by research, or attempting to locate pertinent files or writing summaries will be unable to best serve his or her clients interests due to the lack of attention given to the overall case. A paralegal fulfills that role by  sifting through mountains of information and noting any relevant sections, going through case histories to locate related rulings, searching records for files and materials needed, and more. By conducting these tasks the paralegal frees the attorney or attorneys he or she works for to focus their attentions on the client and the case as a whole.

Paralegal Specializations

Paralegals may specialize in a particular area of law, providing knowledge, information, and services related to that field. By choosing a specialty a paralegal may increase his or her effectiveness by accumulating knowledge and experience operating with a particular area of the law, and conducting tasks with greater efficiency due to the more narrowed focus. Paralegals must take the time to research and study their specialization, often taking courses specific to the specialization in order to familiarize themselves with their new area of focus.

Here are some paralegal specializations:

  • Bankruptcy
  • Criminal Justice
  • Family Law
  • Labor Law
  • Real Estate
  • Personal Injury
  • Litigation

How Much do Paralegals Make?

The overarching goal of a paralegal is to assist lawyers and attorneys perform legal research pertinent to an upcoming case or project. What a paralegal can make will depend on the size of the law firm and scope of their job responsibilities coupled with their geographic location. That being said, the national median income for a paralegal is just under $50,000 a year. A paralegal salary will depend on the geographic location and company as some law firms incorporate variable compensation into the equation that can drive compensation much higher than average. Additionally, medical and dental benefits that are paid by your employer are considered compensation and NALA reports that nearly all paralegals receive full or part of their health insurance premiums paid by their employer. A list of important national statistics for paralegals can be found below for reference:

Top States of Employment for Paralegals

  • California 29,190
  • Florida 24,430
  • New York 22,210
  • Texas 22,120
  • Pennsylvania 10,800

Top Paying States for Paralegals

  1. District of Columbia $76,260
  2. Alaska $66,950
  3. Washington $59,590
  4. New York $59,300
  5. California $59,130

Top Paying Cities for Paralegals

  • San Francisco, CA
  • Rockford, Il
  • Seattle, WA
  • San Jose, CA
  • Los Angeles, CA
  • Philadelphia, PA
  • Washington DC
  • Anchorage, AK
  • Trenton, NJ
  • Dallas, TX

Salary, Job Growth and Related Legal Fields

The average salary for a paralegal is about $49,500 per year adding approximately 21,200 jobs in the coming decade. Job growth for paralegals is expected to remain steady for the foreseeable future estimated to be 6% by the BLS due to the increasing demand for lawyers as new technologies and ideas will demand the attention, interpretation and implementation of laws in order to govern them. This is in addition to the usual turnover already associated with the occupation.

Those interested in a paralegal degree may also be interested in court reporting, legal administrative assistance, or pre-law. Further research may be completed by reaching out to regional and national associations. Examples of top-tier national organizations dedicated to the professional growth of paralegals include the NFPA and NALA.

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