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Paralegal Degree
The most common way to become a paralegal is through a community college paralegal program that leads
to an associate’s degree. A small number of schools also offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in
paralegal studies. Some employers train paralegals on the job, hiring college graduates with no legal
experience or promoting experienced legal secretaries. Paralegal programs include 2-year associate
degree’s programs, 4-year bachelor’s degree programs, and certificate programs that can take only a
few months to complete. Most certificate programs provide intensive and, in some cases, specialized
paralegal training for individuals who already hold college degrees, while associate’s and bachelor’s
degree programs usually combine paralegal training with courses in other academic subjects.
Scope for Paralegals
Private law firms will continue to be the largest employers of paralegals, but a growing array of other
organizations, such as corporate legal departments, insurance companies, real estate and title insurance
firms, and banks hire paralegals. Demand for paralegals also is expected to grow as an expanding population
increasingly requires legal services, especially in areas such as intellectual property, health care,
international law, elder issues, criminal law, and environmental law. Job opportunities for paralegals
will expand in the public sector as well. Community legal-service programs, which provide assistance to
the poor, elderly, minorities, and middle-income families, will employ additional paralegals to minimize
expenses and serve the most people. A growing number of experienced paralegals are expected to establish
their own businesses.
Leading Programs:
- Associate in Paralegal Studies
- Paralegal Applications
- Paralegal Communications
Search for:
Online Paralegal Colleges
Campus Paralegal Colleges
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