Types of Paralegal Degrees: Choosing a Degree Level
Choosing the right paralegal degree program is a very personal decision. Think about your schedule, career goals and budget. Do you want to enter the workforce as quickly as possible, or would you like your education to include a broader range of liberal arts studies in addition to paralegal training? Do you have work and family obligations to balance with getting your degree? How much are you willing to spend on tuition? Answering questions like these will put you on the right track to finding the best paralegal program for you.
Paralegal Degree Programs
There are several levels of education for paralegals, from certificates to master's programs. The range of paralegal degree opportunities gives you the option to pursue higher education within the field and decide how you would like to focus your career. Consider which of the following paralegal degree programs will best meet your needs.
Paralegal Certificate Programs – A paralegal certificate program at an accredited institution can range from a one-year course to a more in-depth two-year course, similar to an associate's degree. If you already have a bachelor's degree in another area, a certificate program may be a great opportunity to learn the skills you'll need for a paralegal position. When you graduate from a paralegal certificate program, you may find work in private law offices, bank trust departments, insurance companies and entry-level government jobs. The certificate is the most basic level of qualification required to work as a paralegal.
Paralegal Associate Degree Programs – Many paralegals find career training at community colleges in two-year programs. However, you can also finish an associate's degree in paralegal studies at a four-year university or a business school. These programs include approximately 60 to 70 credits, which consist of both paralegal degree training and some general classes. Paralegal associate degree programs, like certificate programs, provide entry-level qualifications.
Paralegal Bachelor Degree Programs – In a four-year university setting, aspiring paralegals can choose to major in paralegal studies or take it as a concentration within a pre-law program. Paralegal students in bachelor's degree programs complete roughly 120 to 130 credit hours, including a range of required general studies courses. A paralegal bachelor degree makes you more competitive in applying for jobs at larger law firms. It may also increase your earning potential.
Graduate Degree Programs – Several universities offer advanced paralegal studies programs. These paralegal degrees usually specialize in a particular field such as legal administration. By completing a graduate degree, you'll qualify to work at a higher level in the field, becoming a senior level paralegal, able to work on high-level projects. A masters degree in paralegal studies should also qualify you for a higher salary than an undergraduate degree.
Other Things to Think About
While you may not need paralegal certification to qualify for employment, in some job markets certification is standard. Before you choose a paralegal degree program, find out what employers in your area are expecting. If you want to become a certified paralegal, make sure that the school you choose will help you meet the requirements.
In order to become a certified paralegal through the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), you'll need to meet several criteria. First, you'll need to graduate from an American Bar Association (ABA) approved program for paralegals, or earn a bachelor's degree in any field and undergo at least six months of in-house training as a paralegal. After that, you'll need to pass the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) certifying examination. Check with NALA to learn more about the standards for certification.
