Online Paralegal Studies Programs
Paralegal studies programs prepare students to work alongside lawyers and attorneys. Learn about online programs in paralegal studies, including their prerequisites and common course topics. Discover career options within this field. Schools offering Paralegal degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
What Online Degrees in Paralegal Studies Are Available to Me?
Online undergraduate and graduate degrees in paralegal studies are rare, but online certificate programs are plentiful. You can usually complete these certificate programs in a year or less. Online programs may be designed for those just starting out or for individuals with existing administrative experience.
| Program Availability | Online certificates are common; online undergraduate and graduate degrees are rare. |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma (or equivalent), basic computer skills, writing skills, research skills |
| Online Learning | Study lectures, participate in discussions and complete assignments via an online portal. |
| Common Course Topics | Criminal law, dispute resolution, legal terminology, legal writing, litigation |
| Career Options | Paralegal, law clerk, legal assistant, legal secretary |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026)* | 15% growth (for paralegals and legal assistants) |
| Median Salary (2018)* | $50,940 (for paralegals and legal assistants) |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Are There Any Prerequisites?
There are no formal educational prerequisites other than a high school diploma or equivalent, but most online paralegal studies programs do expect you to have basic computer skills, including experience with word processing software and Internet research. If you aren't confident in your computer skills, it's recommended that you consider enrolling in a training class before applying for an online paralegal program. Strong writing skills are also preferred.
What Is an Online Program Like?
Online learning programs are designed to let you study at your own pace and convenience, allowing you to learn while keeping up with family and work responsibilities. You attend classes, turn in assignments, and interact with your classmates and instructors completely online by logging into a special portal on the school's website. Some hybrid programs are also available; these combine online and on-campus classes. Schools that offer hybrid programs usually offer an online-only option as well.
What Will I Learn?
Coursework for a certificate program in paralegal studies combines practical knowledge with legal theory and research to prepare you to offer skilled administrative support to lawyers and attorneys. Topics you can expect to study include:
- Real estate law
- Criminal law
- Legal terminology
- Family law
- Litigation
- Legal analysis
- Legal citation
- Dispute resolution
- Legal writing
What Are My Career Options?
As a graduate of a certificate program in paralegal studies, you may be able to work as a paralegal, legal assistant, legal secretary or law clerk. You might also decide to eventually move on to law school, although this will require other prerequisites, including a bachelor's degree.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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