What Can I Do with an Online Paralegal Associate Degree?
A paralegal with an online associate's degree has a variety of job opportunities. Read on to learn more about program requirements, job duties, and career outlook.
Job Description
Paralegals provide lawyers with assistance in legal research, document preparation and any other tasks needed to serve a client. They might interview witnesses, draft contracts or organize legal files. Other tasks can vary depending on the size and legal specialty of the law firm, such as real estate law, corporate law, civil litigation or criminal litigation.
Important Facts about this Occupation
| Paralegal | Claims Adjusters/Investigators | |
|---|---|---|
| Median Pay (in 2018) | $50,940 (for paralegals and legal assistants)* | $65,670 (for claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners, and investigators)* |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 15% (for paralegals and legal assistants)* | -1% (for claims adjusters, appraisers, examiners, and investigators)* |
| Training | Most associate's degree, bachelor's degree, and certificate programs include training, such as an internship. | Most training happens on the job after employment. |
| Certification | Voluntary certification may help to distinguish you from other candidates for a paralegal job. | Requirements vary by state. |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Online Paralegal Associate's Degree
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an associate's degree program in paralegal studies combines paralegal training and additional academic studies. An online degree in this field can prepare students to work in law offices, federal and state governmental agencies and many corporate entities. It can also qualify the graduate to work in many entry-level positions.