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We are drawn to legal battles for some reason, and those involve a number of different roles - lawyers, judges, criminals, witnesses . . . and whether you realize it or not, the paralegal.
This is a profession that is becoming increasingly necessary in today’s legal environment and that requires training in the nation’s best programs in paralegal studies.
In previous decades, paralegals received on-the-job training. As the profession grew, the formalized education took the form of Associate of Science programs, which offered training primarily in areas of specific interest to paralegal practice. But the bar has officially been raised!
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What kind of Paralegal Studies Degree should you get?
Today, the standard for training is a four-year bachelor’s degree from a community college or a traditional university. There, students are exposed not only to legal training in particular but also to courses in, say, communication, business, and economics—all helpful topics for a legal professional.
An additional marker that is becoming increasingly important is American Bar Association accreditation. Not all schools feature this, but the ones that do are proud of it . . . and rightly so! Be sure to keep this designation in mind as you research your options.
Some programs are also offering their programs online. For more information, see our ranking of the Best Online Paralegal Studies Degrees.
How much money do people make with a Paralegal Studies Degree?
Starting salaries for paralegals are deceptively low at between $27,000 and $32,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. This will vary according to what skills you bring to the table and also who you’re working for.
However, the U.S. Department of Labor also predicts that the paralegal profession will be one of the fastest-growing occupations in the near future...so there is reason to expect that wages will grow as well!
What can you do with a Paralegal Studies Degree?
One of the reasons for the growth in the paralegal profession is that paralegals are increasingly being asked to perform legal duties traditionally performed by licensed attorneys. As the amount of legal work increases, attorneys are increasingly reliant on paralegals for much of what they do.
Examples of tasks a paralegal might perform include but are hardly limited to the following:
- Fact evaluation and investigation
- Contract preparation
- Client interviews
- Case management
- Legal research
- Exhibit preparation
- Real estate transactions
What are the requirements for a Paralegal Studies Degree?
In addition to whatever requirements a particular bachelor’s program in paralegal studies might require, paralegals will need to seek certification through one of three nationally recognized paralegal professional organizations:
- The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
- The Association for Legal Professionals (NALS)
Each organization has its own certifications as well as its own requirements. Be sure to do your homework on what organizations work best in your home state or the state you plan to work in!
What are the best Paralegal Studies Degrees?
We’ve compiled a list of the top 25 bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies with you and your needs in mind. Here’s how we did it. First, we located the best programs in the country by taking an objective look at the best schools in the country as measured by reputation and return on investment.
Then we looked at the bottom line—how much does it cost? We combined these factors to reach our College Choice Score, which determined where each school fits into the big scheme of things.
Our data for this ranking was drawn from a variety of public sources, such as U.S. News & World Report, the National Center for Education Statistics, PayScale.com, and the U.S. Census. The end result is a list of schools that not only represent the best education you can get and a good return on investment but also one that will fit your budget.
Case dismissed!
Rankings
See our rankings methodology page.
#1 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
Liberty University
- Lynchburg, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University enrolls undergraduates in 91 bachelor's programs, including its bachelor of science in paralegal studies. The program prepares students for entry-level roles in many fields. Bachelor's graduates can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.
The curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in paralegal studies. Undergraduates also complete general education requirements, which strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Minors and second majors help enrollees balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.
Incoming degree candidates can expect strong college support, whether they enroll on campus or online. For example, career counselors review job opportunities and connect learners with employment opportunities.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
Type of School: Private
Admissions Rate: 51%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 30
Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,417
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,417
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
East Central University
- Ada, OK
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
East Central University offers 31 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in legal studies that stands out for its quality. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. A bachelor's degree may also lead to higher education opportunities, including master's and doctoral programs.
The curriculum trains learners in foundational paralegal knowledge and practices. Undergraduates complete general education courses that strengthen communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Declaring a minor or double majoring helps degree candidates explore other interests.
The school's student services help incoming enrollees integrate into the larger campus community. For example, career counselors review job opportunities and connect students with employment opportunities.
East Central University at a Glance:
Location: Ada, Oklahoma
Type of School: Public
Admissions Rate: 59%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 6
Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,648
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,008
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
St. Petersburg College
- Clearwater, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
St. Petersburg College, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its bachelor's in paralegal studies program. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the Clearwater, Florida, school. Flexible course options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.
Majors earn a bachelor's degree after taking paralegal studies and general education courses. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Within the major, learners take upper-division courses that provide an advanced understanding of paralegal studies, preparing them for the job market.
St. Petersburg College at a Glance:
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 22
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,559
Graduation Rate: 33%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $31,700
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
59%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
Hampton University
- Hampton, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Hampton University offers a bachelor of arts in paralegal studies as one of its 70 bachelor's programs. Graduates enter the workforce prepared for diverse careers with this paralegal studies degree. A bachelor's degree also leads to higher education opportunities, including master's and doctoral programs.
The curriculum includes introductory paralegal studies classes and upper-division courses. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Minors and second majors help degree candidates balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.
Incoming degree-seekers can expect strong college support, whether they enroll on campus or online. For example, academic advisors work with students to make a graduation plan that accounts for transfer credits.
Hampton University at a Glance:
Location: Hampton, Virginia
Type of School: Private
Admissions Rate: 36%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11
Undergrad Tuition In State: $24,950
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,950
Percent Online Enrollment
11%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
Texas A&M University-Commerce
- Commerce, TX
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The bachelor's in paralegal studies at Texas A&M University-Commerce, which offers 51 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. Enrollees gain the knowledge and skills required for careers in diverse industries. Bachelor's graduates can also continue their education by applying to master's or doctoral programs.
The curriculum introduces key paralegal topics and principles. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Students can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.
The school's student services help incoming degree candidates integrate into the larger campus community. For example, career counselors help learners identify strengths and plan for the job market.
Texas A&M University-Commerce at a Glance:
Location: Commerce, Texas
Type of School: Public
Admissions Rate: 43%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 12
Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,790
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $17,460
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
Regent University
- Virginia Beach, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The bachelor of science in paralegal studies program at Regent University, a private institution, ranks high for academic quality. Degree-seekers enroll in online classes and take in-person courses on the Virginia Beach, Virginia, campus. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive college support services.
The curriculum incorporates major-specific and general education courses. Learners take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. Graduates prepare for entry-level roles or further education in advanced courses, which cover theoretical and practical issues in the field.
Regent University at a Glance:
Admissions Rate: 86%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 37
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 32
Undergrad Tuition In State: $17,220
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $17,220
Graduation Rate: 57%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $34,800
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
Bay Path University
- Longmeadow, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The bachelor's in paralegal studies at Bay Path University, which offers 24 bachelor's degrees, helps enrollees reach their goals. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. Bachelor's graduates can also apply to master's programs to continue their education.
The curriculum covers the major principles and methods in paralegal studies. Undergraduates also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills through general education classes. Students can complement their degree with a minor or second major.
Incoming degree candidates can expect strong support services when they enroll at the school. For example, financial aid counselors meet with students to identify their financial need and suggest funding sources.
Bay Path University at a Glance:
Location: Longmeadow, Massachusetts
Type of School: Private
Admissions Rate: 72%
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 18
Undergrad Tuition In State: $35,081
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $35,081
Percent Online Enrollment
62%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
Eastern Kentucky University
- Richmond, KY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The bachelor of arts in paralegal science program at Eastern Kentucky University, a public institution, stands out for its quality. From its Richmond, Kentucky, campus, the school runs in-person and online programs. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive college support services.
Enrollees in the paralegal science program build comprehensive skills and knowledge through both general education and major courses. Students gain an understanding of diverse academic fields through the general education curriculum. Major courses introduce major theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing graduates to enter the workforce or pursue further education.
Eastern Kentucky University at a Glance:
Admissions Rate: 94%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 89
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 17
Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,266
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,338
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,121
Graduation Rate: 45%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $32,700
Percent Online Enrollment
44%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
Mississippi University for Women
- Columbus, MS
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The bachelor's in legal studies program at Mississippi University for Women, a public institution, stands out for its academic quality. Degree-seekers take classes in person on the Columbus campus and online. Undergraduates participate in rigorous academic programs and benefit from comprehensive support services.
The program includes general education and major courses that emphasize key skills and knowledge. Students meet general education requirements by taking classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The legal studies curriculum covers theoretical and advanced topics, preparing graduates for the workforce or further education.
Mississippi University for Women at a Glance:
Admissions Rate: 97%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1
Total Bachelor's Programs: 29
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 4
Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,425
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,425
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $7,762
Graduation Rate: 40%
Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $33,100
Percent Online Enrollment
72%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees
National American University-Rapid City
- Rapid City, SD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
The bachelor's in paralegal studies program at National American University-Rapid City, which offers 30 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. Enrollees develop the knowledge and skills required for a variety of entry- and mid-level careers. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for additional degrees, such as a master's or doctorate.
The curriculum introduces foundational and advanced principles in paralegal studies. General education requirements also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Students can gain interdisciplinary training by choosing a minor or second major.
The school's student services help incoming degree candidates make connections on campus and thrive in their program. For example, career counselors connect enrollees with job fairs and internship opportunities.
National American University-Rapid City at a Glance:
Location: Rapid City, South Dakota
Type of School: Private
Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 30
Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,000
Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,000
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
