Paralegal Degrees & Paralegal Programs

With such a variety of paralegal degree programs, how do you go about picking the one that's right for you? The type of program you choose may depend on a number of factors, such as your current level of education, previous work experience, specialty interests, or the availability of part-time paralegal training or online training. Here is a description of the different kinds of paralegal degree programs available and some of the factors that may affect your choice.

Paralegal Certificate Programs

The widest variety of paralegal training is available through certificate or diploma programs offered by business or vocational schools, community colleges, and some larger universities. Paralegal certificate programs can range from just three to 24 months, and some are intended for students who already have an associate's or bachelor's degree. There are, however, many paralegal programs that require only a high school diploma or that allow students with previous legal experience, such as legal secretaries, to enroll without a college degree.

Shorter programs typically provide paralegal courses in law, legal research and other fundamentals, while longer programs usually include both general education and paralegal courses, similar to associate's degree programs. Unless you have already earned another degree, it is important to know whether employers in your market consider a paralegal certificate training program alone adequate preparation for work in the field.

Online Paralegal Programs

Online paralegal education provides the ultimate in flexibility for future paralegals who cannot physically attend programs due to work, family or other obligations. There is a growing variety among online programs. Most rely heavily on the computer and provide interactive lessons and online classrooms. And while there are still a few online programs that do not provide the same quality of education offered through traditional means, many programs are well respected by employers. Completing an online paralegal training program also demonstrates drive, organization and self-discipline—all attractive qualities to a potential employer.

Online paralegal training programs most often confer a diploma or certificate upon completion. Because most programs are self-paced, the time to completion can vary, but most require about the same amount of time as a traditional certificate program. When comparing programs, be sure to ask about how available the faculty will be to answer your questions. It is also worthwhile to ask for the course curriculum and compare it to traditional programs you know to be reputable. Organizations such as the Distance Education and Training Council accredit online programs, so ask the program's guidance counselor if their online paralegal program is accredited by this or another organization.

Associate's Paralegal Programs

Associate's paralegal degree programs can typically be completed in two years of full-time study. These programs are available at business or vocational schools, two-year community colleges and some four-year colleges. Coursework is typically split between law courses and general education courses, such as English, math and science, and is designed to provide paralegal training as well as a foundation in the liberal arts and sciences.

According to a 2004 survey by the National Association of Legal Assistants, about a third of paralegals have an associate's degree. In many employment markets, it is considered the appropriate level of paralegal training for recent high school graduates or others without secondary degrees to enter the field. You may also find this option appealing later on, since credits could transfer to a four-year college for a future bachelor's degree.

Bachelor's Paralegal Programs

Bachelor's paralegal degree programs are not as commonly available as associate's degree or certificate programs. However, even if four-year colleges and universities near you do not have a major in paralegal studies, they may offer a minor in the area, or a concentration within another major, such as criminal justice. The National Federation of Paralegal Associations has adopted a policy urging future paralegals to obtain bachelor's degrees, but many employers still consider associate's or certificate programs adequate preparation for entry level work as a paralegal, especially if the prospective employee has pertinent legal work experience.

In addition to a solid foundation in business and liberal arts, bachelor's paralegal degree programs provide in-depth paralegal training for students who want to find positions in law firms and who want to increase their likelihood of promotion later in their careers. Paralegals with associate's degrees sometimes choose to pursue a bachelor's degree while working by transferring their existing credits.

Master's Paralegal Programs

If you can afford the time and money to obtain your master's degree in paralegal studies, you will set yourself apart from many other paralegals seeking employment or advancement. Master's degree programs are offered by four-year colleges and graduate schools, and are typically conferred as master of arts, or science degrees in law, legal studies or legal administration. Master's degree programs usually take a minimum of two years to complete.

Some master's degree programs are designed to provide top-notch paralegal training. Others are designed to provide legal education to people working in other professions who feel this background will help advance their careers. Schools are typically clear about which type of program they provide, but it is worth your time to make sure before deciding on a paralegal school.

Some law firms offer continuing education benefits. If you are already a paralegal and are interested in obtaining a master's degree, discuss it with your current or future employer and see if they will assist you with tuition costs.

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