The country’s legal system constantly requires professional paralegals to help lawyers carry out their daily routines and obligations. With an accredited online paralegal certificate, you can jumpstart your career in this exciting and prolific industry. Hence, paralegal certificate holders can pursue a rewarding career in the legal system. Individuals with research proficiency, analytical and critical thinking abilities, and excellent communication skills can easily excel in a fast-growing profession.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics report suggests that paralegals and legal assistants’ demand is projected to increase by 10% between 2019 to 2029. With appropriate training and knowledge, paralegals receive excellent career prospects and specialize in the legal system/law area they’re passionate about.
Because paralegals perform their duties under the supervision of an attorney, these professionals can already work with voluntary certifications and state registrations as a minimum requirement. However, some states require paralegals to have some sort of independent services with a license. Hence, licensing requires more advanced training and extensive studies.
Although there is no specific academic requirement to work as a paralegal or legal assistant, proof that you’ve completed an online paralegal certificate program is already a good stepping stone to get ahead in the competition. As such, aspiring paralegals can pursue online paralegal certificate programs to learn the fundamentals of the paralegal in a career-focused curriculum. To gather entry-level career requirements, individuals with a degree in another area of study often pursue online paralegal certificate programs as a start.
Getting the proper training and expertise gives you that edge as you pursue a well-paying career as a paralegal. To help you in this pursuit, our researchers at OnlineSchoolsCenter.com have listed the 15 Best Online Paralegal Certificate Programs.
What makes these 15 Online Paralegal Certificate programs from these excellent online schools stand out? Let us count the ways!
- Each online school offers the Paralegal Certificate Program 100% online to fit students’ learning around their work or home life.
- The Online Paralegal Certificate Programs feature courses that expand students’ knowledge by providing valuable insights into up-to-date industry principles and practices.
- Students gain access to support and resources for their online Paralegal Certificate classes conducted on top-rated web-based learning platforms.
- Where applicable, the online schools offer financial support to deserving Online Paralegal Certificate students seeking to pursue continuing education that’s relevant to their profession.
- The online schools and their programs are all fully accredited by academic organizations.
Get more in-depth information on our selection process. Please visit our Methodology page.
We make it easy for you to see your 15 best accredited Online Paralegal Certificate options with these page-jumps:
- American Military University
- University of Massachusetts
- Duke University
- Mississippi College
- The George Washington University
- Florida International University
- Ocean County College
- Rasmussen College
- Kennesaw State University
- Liberty University
- University of Miami
- Cerro Coso Community College
- University of South Carolina
- Hamline University
- Ashworth College
American Military University
Charles Town, West Virginia
Tuition: $285 per credit hour (Standard) | $250 per credit hour (Military Grant)
American Military University’s School of Security and Global Studies runs an Online Paralegal Studies program that requires 24 credit hours for completion. Interested students can transfer a maximum of nine credits when enrolling in the program. Each course has an 8-week program format, letting students accomplish their courses according to their pace and convenience. Some of the core required courses include Criminal Law and Procedure for the Paralegal, Administrative Law and Policy, Legal Research and Writing, Introduction to Law for Paralegals, and Real Estate Law. As an affordable online school in West Virginia, AMU doesn’t require students to pay an application fee and a transfer credit evaluation fee when pursuing online paralegal studies. Since the university has a rolling admission policy, students can start their online certificate studies anytime.
Types of Aid: Payment Options, Military Tuition Assistance, Veterans Benefits, Employer Benefits, Scholarships, and Private Loans
Admission Requirements:
- Online application
- High school diploma or GED
- Proof of high school completion (If applicable)
- Copy of a valid government-issued photo ID
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
American Military University invests in students’ accomplishment of an online degree program or certificate studies through diverse student support services. One of the services it offers includes Academic Advising, partnering enrolled students to help them register for the appropriate courses, and provide assistance with questions related to procedures and policies. Aside from that, AMU also offers career services, including federal career coaching, career exploration, and resume review.
Learn more about American Military University’s Online Paralegal Certificate Program.
University of Massachusetts
Shrewsbury, Massachusetts
Tuition: $380 per credit hour
The University of Massachusetts has an Online Certificate Program in Paralegal Studies offered at an undergraduate level. To complete students’ certificate studies, each participant must have 18 credit hours. The 18-credit hour online paralegal studies certificate program requires completion of Litigation, Legal Research Methods, Real Estate Law, and Introduction to Paralegal Studies. Aside from core coursework completion, students must choose two electives that are tailored to their professional aspirations. Distance learners can accomplish the certificate program at their timeline, completing one to two courses per semester. Although they enjoy the flexibility of completing the program, all certificate courses must be accomplished within five years. Since the students can receive academic credits after completing the online certification, they can pursue more advanced studies enrolling in a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts: Legal Studies concentration or a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Paralegal Option UMass Lowell.
Types of Aid: Federal Grants, Massachusetts Grants, Scholarships and Tuition Credits, University Awards, External Scholarships, Tuition Credits, Loans, and Work-Study Options
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- Official high school transcript/HiSET/GED
- Official college transcripts (If applicable)
Accreditation:
- New England Commission of Higher Education
The University of Massachusetts is one of the frontrunners in distance learning around the state. As part of its online learning initiative, the university offers a variety of student support services. As such, UMass features the same support services for both on-campus and online students. For example, the university has a 24/7 Tech Support for students completing web-based courses and requiring technical assistance through the Help Desk Support Portal.
Learn about the University of Massachusetts’ Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program.
Duke University
Durham, North Carolina
Tuition: $6,995
Duke University’s Online Paralegal Certificate program is offered through its Continuing Studies department. The 300-hour online certificate program is designed for professionals working in the legal sector or individuals seeking a career change. Through the program, the students progress at their own pace through comprehensive learning materials with the opportunity to receive one-on-one counseling with a faculty who is a licensed attorney. Upon the completion of each course, students should pass an online examination associated with each course.
Students must complete required courses, including Fundamentals of the Profession, Pleadings and Discovery, Motion Practice, Legal Ethics, and Legal Technology. Aside from that, they must choose two out of the four course offerings that make up the Substantive Legal Studies requirement. Students can choose either Family Law, Business Organizations, Criminal Law, Tort Law, and Contract Law. Although the online paralegal certificate program doesn’t qualify students to sit for the NC State Paralegal Certification Exam, they can become eligible for the National Federation of Paralegal Association and National Association of Legal Assistants exams.
Types of Aid: Federal/State/Local Grants, Duke Need-based Grants and Scholarships, Self-Help, Work-Study Awards, Outside Scholarships, and Tuition Benefits
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- $25 non-refundable application fee
- Official college transcripts
- Resume
- Reference letter
- Signed Program Policy
- Signed North Carolina Resident Statement (NC Residents Only)
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Both online and on-campus learners at Duke University enjoy several academic resources to help them in their studies. Like other online universities, Duke University has a global online library where students can find resources from different areas of study. The university also offers both academic and research advisors to help them succeed in their online learning venture. Through personalized advising, students can receive the opportunity to tailor their academic plan according to their degree program or certificate studies.
Learn more about Duke University’s Online Paralegal Certificate Program.
Mississippi College
Clinton, Mississippi
Tuition: $645 per credit hour
Mississippi College’s Online Paralegal Studies Certificate program is developed to train graduates to fulfill their duties and obligations under attorneys’ management. The 27-hour post-baccalaureate online paralegal studies program has core required courses in Family Law and Equity Practice, Mechanics of Property Transactions, Wills and Estates, Legal Writing, Legal Research Bibliography, and Introduction to Law. Applicants must have earned at least 15 hours of academic credits at Mississippi College; however, MC accepts transfer credits with above “C” ratings.
Types of Aid: Institutional/State Scholarships, Grants, Loans, Military and Veterans’ Educational Benefits, Payment Plans, and External Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Online application for admission
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5
- $35 non-refundable application fee
- Official transcripts
- Standardized test scores
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Mississippi College offers the most comprehensive student support for both traditional and non-traditional learners. One of its noteworthy features includes the Leland Speed Library, allowing students to browse through different learning resources they need from a virtual library. Aside from that, students can also use eBooks, articles, journals, and other learning materials. The school also features its Career Services that provides helpful resources for its students in finding rewarding professions based upon their strengths and job searches.
Learn more about Mississippi College’s Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program.
The George Washington University
Washington, District of Columbia
Tuition: $20,715
Through the College of Professional Studies, The George Washington University has two academic-credit bearing online paralegal-related certificate programs. As such, students can either enroll in the 18-credit hour Online Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies or the 24-credit hour Graduate Certificate for California Paralegals. Depending on the selected program, students can complete their certificates in two to four semesters. The online graduate certificate in paralegal studies requires students to complete courses in American Jurisprudence, Business Entities, Litigation, Legal Research & Writing, and Advanced Legal Writing. On the contrary, the 24-credit hour graduate California Paralegals certificate program has core required courses in International Law, Administrative Law, California Law and Practice, Government Contracts, and Intellectual Property Law.
Types of Aid: Virginia State Grants, Stafford Loans, Private/Alternative Loans, Employment Opportunities, Veteran’s Benefits, Employer Assistance, and Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- $80 application
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts
- Resume
- Statement of purpose
- Baccalaureate degree
- One letter of recommendation
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
All certificate programs at George Washington University are primarily geared towards working professionals and non-traditional students. GWU’s Career Services is designed for professional students and is offered through the College of Professional Studies. Through the CPS, students receive personalized resources, programming, and coaching to help both students and alumni sustain lifelong professional success and explore career opportunities. The school has partnered with Handshake as its official career service platform. GWU offers a diverse range of career services, including career fairs, virtual networking, career portals, and career plan development.
Learn more about The George Washington University’s Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program.
Florida International University
Miami, Florida
Tuition: $7,120
An Online Paralegal Certificate program at Florida International University is a one year program that consists of 12 subjects, allowing students to accomplish 615 hours of coursework completion. For interested students, take note that this is a non-credit professional program. As such, they can’t receive regular college credits towards a degree program. FIU’s online paralegal certificate program comprises three trimesters, with each trimester consisting of four course sections. Each course has a 1-month course duration, requiring students to complete specific courses before starting the next set of courses in the trimester. Criminal Law/Evidence, Introduction to the Legal System, Business Organizations, Civil Procedure, and Estates and Trusts are just a few of the required courses to be accomplished within three trimesters.
Types of Aid: Federal/Private Loans
Admission Requirements:
- $25 application fee
- Application for admission
- High school diploma or GED
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Florida International University’s Legal Studies Institute provides helpful resources for its distance learners to complete a degree program or certificate studies. Aside from comprehensive student support services, FIU offers one of the most inexpensive tuition rates around the state. The university offers financial aid programs to help students finance their way towards completing an online certification. As such, they must complete at least two courses per term to become eligible to receive financial assistance.
Learn more about Florida International University’s Online Paralegal Certificate Program.
Ocean County College
Toms River, New Jersey
Tuition: $175 per semester hour (Residents) | $193 per semester hour (Non-Residents)
Completing an Online Certificate of Proficiency in Paralegal Studies program at Ocean County College helps students prepare for a rewarding career. As an academic-credit enabling program, the online paralegal studies certificate program can be credited towards an Associate in Applied Science in Business-Paralegal Studies at OCC. Some of the core required courses that students take include Introduction to Litigation, Business Law I and II, Law Office Management, Introduction to Law and Legal Assisting, and Legal Research and Writing for Paralegals. Aside from that, students must choose two electives so they can complete 33 credit hours for completion.
Types of Aid: Tuition Discount Program, Unemployment Educational Benefits, Federal PELL Grant, Federal Work-Study Program, Federal Direct Subsidized/Unsubsidized Loans, State Aid, Veterans’ Educational Benefits, Scholarships, and Private Loans
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Diploma/GED (For Financial Aid Eligibility)
Accreditation:
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Like other schools around New Jersey, Ocean County College offers various student services for both on-campus and online students. For example, OCC’s Tutoring Center features three major tutoring services: General Tutoring Services, Writing Services, and Mathematics Services. Aside from its traditional tutoring services, OCC has a new studying app called “CircleIn” where students can participate in virtual classes in a digital community and brainstorm with their classmates simultaneously. Through the CircleIn app, students can organize a group study remotely and help their peers to earn rewards. Hence, the more classmates they’ve helped, the more rewards they earn.
Learn more about Ocean County College’s Online Certificate of Proficiency in Paralegal Studies Program.
Rasmussen College
Bloomington, Minnesota
Tuition: $310 per credit (Part-Time) | $260 per credit (Full-Time)
The Justice Studies department at Rasmussen College offers a 33-credit hour Online Paralegal Certificate program completed in as few as eight months. Rasmussen’s advanced online certificate program is developed with a comprehensive paralegal curriculum designed to prepare students to sit for the National Certified Paralegal/Legal Assistant Examination. However, the online paralegal certificate program isn’t intended for state-issued licenses or professional certifications. Students take core courses in Law Office Management, Introduction to Law and the Legal System, Family Law, Legal Ethics, and Criminal Law & Procedure. Besides coursework completion, students must accomplish the Paralegal Associate Capstone requirement as part of the program’s culminating experience.
Types of Aid: Loans, Employer Benefits, Military Benefits, Grants, Scholarships, Transfer Credits, Flex Choice, Tuition Reimbursement, Work-Study Options, and Outside Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Official high school transcripts/GED
- Official/unofficial transcripts
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree
- Minimum high school GPA of 2.25
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
Rasmussen College features its Flex Choice learning format to all online certificate studies and degree programs. With Flex Choice, students can combine credit for prior learning, self-directed assessments, or Competency-Based Education as part of their learning strategies to help them save time, effort, and money. Professional students can take advantage of the school’s Credit for Prior Learning, making their life and job experiences accredited as academic credits. On the contrary, they can also qualify for Self-Directed Assessments, where students can receive credits for what they already know. For $99 per assessment, students can accomplish self-directed assessments independently or with an academic coach’s help.
Learn more about Rasmussen College’s Online Paralegal Certificate Program.
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Tuition: $2,995
Kennesaw State University has an Online Paralegal Certificate program offered through the College of Graduate and Professional Education at KSU. The self-paced online program prepares students for entry-level paralegal careers and provides the credentials to prepare to sit for the Certified Legal Assistant or Certified Paralegal certification examination. Through KSU’s online paralegal certificate program, students are paired with an instructor for personalized guidance. Aside from that, they also receive free access to NALA Campus and Westlaw.
Some of the courses that students must accomplish are Attorney and Paralegal Ethics, Paralegal Employment, Litigation Management, Regulation of Paralegals, and Investigation in a Law Office. After completing the 225-hour online paralegal certificate program at KSU, students receive 22.5 CEUs (Continuing Education Units).
Types of Aid: MyCAA, Military Education Benefits, Education Loans, Tuition Discounts, Employer Education Vouchers, Payment Plans, Scholarships, and Workforce Innovation & Opportunity Act
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- Baccalaureate degree
- High school diploma/GED
- Official high school transcripts
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Student resources at Kennesaw State University help students realize their maximum potential while pursuing their online degree programs or certificate studies. As a highlight, the College of Professional Education offers a Pathway Advising initiative where students can obtain comprehensive information regarding up-to-date wages, job opportunities, industry outlook, and the associated training, education, and proficiencies. KSU facilitates complimentary pathway advising sessions to be current and prospective students and alumni to discuss career advancement opportunities. Aside from that, KSU features InterviewStream that allows students to develop their skills that companies are looking for through online mock interviews. KSU also has the Handshake platform as its official one-stop-shop career management service for alumni.
Learn more about Kennesaw State University’s Online Paralegal Certificate Program.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Tuition: $390 per credit hour (Full-Time) | $455 per credit hour (Part-Time)
Liberty University offers an Online Paralegal Studies Certificate program at the undergraduate level. The program requires 18 credit hours for completion, with distance learners accomplishing 8-week courses. Depending on the students’ commitment and pace, they can receive their online certification in paralegal studies within 12 months. The university accepts a maximum of 75% of the certificate total as part of its generous transfer credits policy.
Civil Practice, Foundations of Law, Legal Writing, Legal Research, and Introduction to Paralegal Studies are the program’s core required courses. Aside from that, students can choose one out of four electives, such as Wills, Trusts & Estates, Criminal Practice & Procedures, Tort Law, or Real Estate Transactions & Property. Liberty University’s courses are taught from a biblical perspective to develop students’ learning experience.
Types of Aid: First-Responder Discounts, Scholarships, Payment Plans, Federal Direct Student and PLUS Loans, Virginia State Aid, Grants, Tax Credits, Military Benefits, Corporate Tuition Affiliates, Corporate Tuition Assistance, and Small Business Discount
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Minimum GPA of 1.5
- Accomplished High School Self-Certification form
- $50 application fee
- Official college transcripts
- Proof of English Proficiency
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Liberty University offers a diverse variety of online degree programs and certificate studies in almost all areas of study. Hence, the university is consistent in different online schools listing around the country. Aside from that, Liberty University has unique financial aid options for both traditional and non-traditional students. Speaking of student support services, LU’s Jerry Falwell Library allows distance learners to browse through different learning resources, including electronic media, scholars crossing, eBooks, and databases.
Learn more about Liberty University’s Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program.
University of Miami
Coral Gables, Florida
Tuition: $6,995
The University of Miami’s Online Paralegal Certificate program is delivered through its Continuing and International Education Division. Students are trained in a skill-enhancing and developmental approach that focuses on incremental and application-based learning through this program. Aside from that, its concentration is primarily targeted at foundational skill development. As such, students interact with professors through a virtual classroom weekly in an asynchronous online learning format. Distance learners access recorded lectures combined with supplemental online resources. As a program highlight, Twenty Program Blocks emphasize incremental paralegal proficiency development. Hence, its curriculum focuses on the 14 substantive components of law studies. Some of the courses that students accomplish include Immigration Law, Foreclosure and Eviction Law, Business Law, Employment & Workers Compensation Law, and Elder & Healthcare Law.
Types of Aid: Military and Veterans Benefits, Scholarships, Student Employment, Loans, and Florida Aid Programs
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- High school diploma or GED
- Official high school transcripts
- ACT and SAT scores
- Two letters of recommendation
- Educational Activities statement (If applicable)
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online students at the University of Miami have access to different Virtual Learning Centers and eWorkshops to support students in their skill-enhancing ventures in the aspects of career preparation, citation, legal writing, and legal research. Regardless of the students’ major, they can enjoy access to the university’s web-based learning support. Its Virtual Career Center facilitates cover letter writing eWorkshops, resume writing, comprehensive information on career trends, and interactive mock interviews.
Learn more about the University of Miami’s Online Paralegal Certificate Program.
Cerro Coso Community College
Ridgecrest, California
Tuition: $2,862 for 3 Semesters (Residents) | $10,503 for 3 Semesters (Non-Residents)
Cerro Coso Community College offers an Online Paralegal Studies Certificate program that helps prepare students for career opportunities as Paralegals or as California Legal Document Assistants (LDAs). Aside from that, students receive academic credits that can easily be applied to an associate degree at Cerro Coso. To receive an online certification in Paralegal Studies, students must complete 27 credit hours. Students must complete core required courses in California Civil Procedure and Legal Forms, Legal Ethics, Civil Litigation and Procedure I, Legal Research and Writing I and II, and Introduction to Paralegal Studies. For the Civil Litigation and Procedure I course, students must first accomplish a specific prerequisite course. Depending on the students’ pace, they can receive their online Paralegal Studies Certificate program after three semesters or within 12 months.
Types of Aid: Scholarships, Student Employment, Direct Loans, Grants, Work-Study Options, and Military and Veterans’ Benefits
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Official high school transcripts
- High school certificate or GED certificate
Accreditation:
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Both on-campus and online students at Cerro Coso Community College are provided with the opportunity to access its wide range of student services. Through the school’s Learning Assistance Center, students can register for group and one-on-one tutoring services. As a highlight, the Cerro Coso Community’s Student Education Plan helps students plan their educational goals with an assigned advisor or counselor’s assistance. The school also facilitates an Online Counseling initiative for students requiring advising and counseling sessions.
Learn more about Cerro Coso Community College’s Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program.
University of South Carolina
Columbia, South Carolina
Tuition: $4,995
An Online Paralegal Studies Certificate program at the University of South Carolina develops students’ proficiencies in legal research and analysis and locating and interviewing state witnesses. All courses under this program are taught by practicing attorneys with expertise and skills in the subject area and the State Bar of South Carolina. USC’s online paralegal studies certificate program requires candidates to have an undergraduate degree and a minimum of four years of professional experience for interested students. The 120-hour online program is categorized into six academic components: Family Law, Contract Law, Civil Litigation, Legal Research & Writing, Tort Law & Personal Injury, and Introduction to Law. Some of the essential proficiencies that students learn include government structure, ethical considerations, federal court structure, legal memorandum form, and legal terminologies. To obtain the USC Paralegal Certificate, candidates must achieve a minimum score of 75% in the overall curriculum and accomplish all six modules with a minimum score of 70% in each course.
Types of Aid: Scholarships and Loans
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- Official transcripts
- Bachelor’s degree
- Minimum four years of work experience
Accreditation:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
The University of South Carolina’s educational support tools allows students to have comprehensive support while pursuing their online certificate studies or degree programs. As part of its online learning initiative, USC features Moodle as its official online learning management system where students interact with their instructors and colleagues. Its user-friendly one-stop-shop online learning platform makes it easier and more convenient for students to access discussion boards, mock quizzes, exercises, and lecture notes.
LEARN MORE ABOUT: Check here for more information on the University of South Carolina’s Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program.
Hamline University
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Tuition: $750 per credit
Hamline University’s Online Graduate Paralegal Certificate program is an ABA-approved paralegal program that can be completed in as few as nine months. To complete the Paralegal Certificate program, students must complete 20 credit hours of required coursework completion. Hence, they complete courses in Regulation in America, Transactions and Contracts in Business, Civil Litigation Survey and Procedure, Legal Writing and Research, and Foundations in Law. All courses are completed through a virtual classroom, with one course completed weekly. Speaking of the course schedule, students attend one course per week from 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM. After completing Hamline’s Paralegal Certificate program, students have the option to complete 14 more credits towards a master’s degree. The master’s program can be accomplished over two semesters after completing the certificate program. Depending on the students’ schedule, they can enroll in February, June, or September to start their online paralegal certificate studies.
Types of Aid: Grants, Scholarships, Federal and Alternative Loans, Student Employment Programs, and Summer Financial Aid
Admission Requirements:
- Accomplished online application
- Official transcripts
- Baccalaureate degree
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Personal statement
- Professional resume
- Two letters of recommendation (For conditional admission)
Accreditation:
- Higher Learning Commission
- American Bar Association
Hamline University allows its students to enjoy a wide range of student support services while pursuing online degree programs and certificate studies. Some of its Academic Assistance services include Disability Resources, The Writing, Communication Center, Academic Skills Resources, Tutoring, and Advising. Through Hamline’s Academic Advising, students can access a one-stop-shop online resource for everything they need to help them succeed in their studies. Aside from that, they’re paired with a faculty advisor to tailor an appropriate Hamline Plan throughout the curriculum.
Learn more about Hamline University’s Online Paralegal Certificate Program.
Ashworth College
Norcross, Georgia
Tuition: $1,099 (Full Payment) | $59 per month (Monthly Payment Scheme)
Ashworth College has an Online Paralegal Studies Certificate program that helps students achieve their professional aspirations and upgrade their career prospects from the paralegal perspective. Through the program, students enjoy access to comprehensive online assessments and resources, including textbooks. As an undergraduate certificate, Ashworth’s online Paralegal Certificate program provides a comprehensive framework in the paralegal field. The program has Introduction to Paralegalism I and II as its sole required courses, comprising three credit hours for each component. Aside from that, students can integrate a set of electives into their self-paced program. They can choose from Wills, Trusts & Estates, Legal Research, Writing, Family Law, Law Office Management, Real Estate Law, Criminal Law and Procedures, Civil Litigation, or Torts. Although the program can be completed within six months, Ashworth College only allows a maximum of one year from the date of students’ admission to earn their online Paralegal Certificate program.
Types of Aid: Military and Veterans’ Benefits, Transfer Credits, and Tuition Discounts
Admission Requirements:
- Application for admission
- High school diploma or GED
- Portfolio (Homeschooled Students Only)
Accreditation:
- Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Ashworth College offers flexible payment options for its distance learners, allowing them to pay their tuition expenses according to their budget. Depending on the students’ major program, they can either pay a one-time full payment or a fixed monthly installment. The 0% interest monthly payment scheme helps students complete their online certificate studies without accumulating a hefty amount of debt.
Learn more about Ashworth College’s Online Paralegal Studies Certificate Program.
What is the career outlook for paralegals?
Paralegals have numerous career opportunities since law firms are looking for ways to reduce costs and improve their daily routines. As mentioned, the employment growth for paralegals and legal assistants is projected at 10% between 2019 to 2029, indicating a faster than average growth compared to other occupations. Speaking of proficiencies, individuals skilled in computer-aided research and computer database management are highly desirable as new paralegals.
Some paralegals pursue a particular specialization of law, such as litigation or family law. Organizations, such as big law firms, hire paralegals that support multiple departments or lawyers, while smaller law firms support two lawyers. Aside from that, many corporations also hire paralegals in their legal office/department for employee contract preparation, yearly financial reports, and shareholder agreements review. Other tasks of paralegals include reviewing new legislation at federal and state levels for advocating corporate compliance.
Speaking of compensation, paralegals’ salary depends on experience, education, and industry. Aside from that, paralegals’ area of responsibility also impacts their earning potentials.
Although paralegals can earn a median annual salary of $51,740 in 2019, they can receive as high as $82,500 per year. These professionals’ high-paying industry includes grantmaking and giving services, with a yearly average income of $91,110. However, paralegals are often found in legal services, earning an average annual income of $52,910.
How long will it take to complete an online paralegal certificate program?
Although the profession doesn’t require online certifications, an accredited certification often leads to more employment prospects for paralegals. As such, many companies prefer or require paralegals with accredited certifications. For interested students, they can complete their online paralegal certificate programs in 12 months or less. However, the completion time often depends on several factors, such as the students’ pace, program requirements, and learning format.
What’s the difference between Paralegal Vs. Legal Assistant?
Professional organizations and law offices frequently interchange the terms “legal assistant” and “paralegal.” Some law firms use the term “legal assistant” to highlight the description of a paralegal’s job, such as assisting legal professionals with numerous cases. On the contrary, legal secretaries have more limitations and lesser duties compared to paralegals. Instead, legal secretaries forward memos, manage front desks at law firms or offices, and answer phone calls as part of their daily routine.
