To find paralegal schools in your state, use the directory below to browse accredited programs offering certificates, associate degrees, and bachelor’s degrees. Look for institutional accreditation first, then consider ABA approval if you’re targeting federal positions or large law firms. Most certificate programs take 6-12 months, while associate degrees require two years.
Finding the right paralegal program starts with understanding your education options and state requirements. Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, career changer, or working professional, accredited paralegal schools across the United States offer flexible pathways through certificates, associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and advanced credentials.
This comprehensive directory helps you locate paralegal programs in your state, understand accreditation standards, and compare program types. With over 1,200 paralegal programs nationwide ranging from traditional campus-based education to fully online formats, you’ll find options that align with your career goals, schedule, and budget.
The typical entry-level paralegal holds one of several educational credentials. The most common are undergraduate certificates in paralegal studies, associate degrees in paralegal studies, or an associate degree in general studies combined with a post-degree certificate. Some paralegals earn certificates concurrent with associate degrees in related fields. Bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies or bachelor’s degrees in other fields paired with post-baccalaureate certificates represent the next tier. The most advanced practitioners pursue graduate certificates or master’s degrees in legal studies.
While on-the-job training opportunities existed historically and still occur in smaller rural law offices, formal education from accredited institutions has become the standard prerequisite for entering the paralegal profession. The role has expanded significantly beyond traditional secretarial duties to include responsibilities once reserved exclusively for attorneys. This evolution makes post-degree certificates particularly popular for professionals transitioning from other careers who already hold undergraduate degrees.
How to Choose the Right Paralegal Program
Selecting the right paralegal program requires evaluating several critical factors that impact your education quality, career prospects, and return on investment. Start by verifying institutional accreditation through agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation. This ensures your degree or certificate will be recognized by employers and accepted for transfer credits if you pursue advanced education later.
Consider your current education level and career timeline. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, post-baccalaureate certificate programs offer the fastest route to paralegal credentials, typically requiring 6-12 months. Recent high school graduates benefit most from associate degree programs that provide comprehensive foundational education over two years. Career changers should evaluate whether their existing degrees can transfer credits toward a paralegal-focused bachelor’s degree.
ABA approval adds another layer of credibility but isn’t universally required. Federal government positions and many large law firms prefer or require graduates from ABA-approved programs. However, thousands of successful paralegals work in state courts, small firms, and corporate legal departments without ABA-approved credentials. Weigh the approval status against program cost, location, and schedule flexibility.
Program delivery format matters for working professionals. Traditional campus programs offer hands-on interaction and networking but require fixed schedules. Hybrid programs blend online coursework with occasional on-campus requirements. Fully online programs provide maximum flexibility but require strong self-discipline. As of 2025, the ABA approves online programs that include at least nine semester credits of legal specialty courses through synchronous (live, real-time) instruction, expanding access while maintaining educational quality standards.
| Selection Factor | Why It Matters | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Institutional Accreditation | Ensures program quality, degree recognition, and transfer credits | Regional accreditation (MSCHE, HLC, NWCCU, etc.) or recognized national accreditation |
| ABA Approval | Required for federal jobs, preferred by large firms | Check the ABA paralegal program directory; online programs with synchronous instruction can be approved |
| Cost and Financial Aid | Impacts return on investment and debt burden | Tuition rates, FAFSA eligibility, payment plans, and employer reimbursement |
| Program Length | Affects the time to employment and opportunity cost | Certificates (6-12 months), Associates (2 years), Bachelors (4 years or 2+ with transfer) |
| Delivery Format | Determines schedule flexibility and learning environment | Campus, online, or hybrid; synchronous vs. asynchronous options |
| Career Services | Supports job placement and professional development | Internship programs, job placement assistance, and alumni networks |
Understanding Accreditation and Approval
Institutional accreditation and voluntary program approval serve different but complementary purposes in paralegal education. Institutional accreditation evaluates entire schools on criteria including faculty qualifications, completion rates, job placement outcomes, and student loan repayment success. Accrediting agencies recognized by the Department of Education ensure institutions meet baseline quality standards.
Three primary types of accrediting bodies evaluate institutions. Regional accreditation agencies like the Middle States Commission on Higher Education or the Higher Learning Commission review schools within their geographic areas and generally represent the gold standard. Only three states—New York, Pennsylvania, and Oklahoma—maintain state-specific accreditation agencies recognized federally. National accreditation agencies focus on online schools, career colleges, and specialized institutions.
The American Bar Association offers voluntary program approval separate from institutional accreditation. Schools choose whether to submit their paralegal programs for ABA review, which examines curriculum depth, faculty credentials, practical training opportunities, and compliance with ABA guidelines. ABA approval indicates a program meets rigorous standards, but represents only a small portion of available options.
The American Association for Paralegal Education maintains a membership directory of schools offering paralegal programs. AAfPE membership requires meeting specific quality criteria but differs from ABA approval. Both voluntary processes demonstrate program commitment to excellence, though thousands of quality programs operate without either designation.
For students, the accreditation hierarchy matters when planning their education path. Always verify institutional accreditation before enrolling—this protects your investment and ensures your credits transfer if you pursue additional education. Consider ABA approval based on your career goals, particularly if you’re targeting federal positions with the Department of Justice, FBI, or other government agencies where ABA-approved credentials often appear in job requirements.
ABA Approval for Online Programs
The ABA now approves online paralegal programs that meet specific requirements, representing a significant policy evolution as of 2025. This change reflects the widespread adoption of quality online education by accredited universities and community colleges. To earn ABA approval, online programs must include at least nine semester credits (or 13.5 quarter credits) of legal specialty courses delivered through synchronous instruction—meaning real-time, live classes where students interact with instructors and classmates simultaneously.
This requirement ensures online students receive the same interactive learning experience as campus-based programs while maintaining the flexibility that makes online paralegal education accessible to working professionals, rural residents, and career changers. Programs like those at the University of Cincinnati, UCLA Extension, San Francisco State University, and Louisiana State University demonstrate that fully online formats can meet rigorous ABA standards through live video instruction, real-time discussions, and synchronous legal research workshops.
Students considering online programs should verify the synchronous instruction component and ABA approval status. While institutional accreditation remains universally important, ABA-approved online programs now offer the best of both worlds: flexibility and the credential preferred by federal agencies and major law firms.
Program Types and Timelines
Paralegal education programs vary significantly in length, depth, and entry requirements. Understanding these differences helps you choose the credential that matches your current situation and career goals.
| Program Type | Duration | Best For | Career Outcomes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Certificate | 6-12 months | High school graduates exploring legal careers; quick entry to the field | Entry-level positions may need additional credentials for advancement |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | Recent high school graduates, those seeking a comprehensive education | Qualified for most entry to mid-level positions; foundation for bachelor’s |
| Post-Associate Certificate | 6-12 months | Those with any associate degree seeking paralegal credentials | Career change credential; equivalent to associate in paralegal studies |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years (or 2+ with transfer) | Those targeting large firms, federal positions, or management roles | Competitive for top employers; higher salary potential; management track |
| Post-Baccalaureate Certificate | 6-18 months | Career changers with bachelor’s degrees in other fields | Fastest route for degree holders; preferred by major law firms |
| Graduate Certificate / Master’s | 1-2 years | Experienced paralegals seeking specialization or management positions | Advanced positions; specialized practice areas; legal department management |
Associate’s Programs: Foundation Education
Associate degree programs provide comprehensive paralegal education covering legal research, writing, ethics, civil litigation, and substantive law areas. Most programs require 60-70 credit hours, including general education requirements in English, math, and social sciences. Employers typically view associate degrees as meeting minimum education requirements, making graduates qualified for most entry-level positions.
Bachelor’s Programs: Competitive Edge
Bachelor’s degree programs appeal to students targeting competitive markets like major metropolitan areas where large law firms concentrate. The four-year programs delve deeper into legal theory, advanced research methods, and specialized practice areas. Many schools offer bachelor’s programs designed for associate degree holders to complete in two additional years. The investment in a bachelor’s degree often correlates with higher starting salaries and faster career advancement, particularly in corporate legal departments and federal agencies.
Post-Degree Certificates: Career Changers’ Fast Track
Post-degree certificate programs recognize that many successful paralegals bring valuable experience from previous careers. These intensive programs focus exclusively on paralegal skills and legal knowledge, skipping general education requirements. A teacher transitioning to family law, an accountant moving into corporate law, or a healthcare professional specializing in medical malpractice can leverage existing degrees while adding legal credentials. Major law firms increasingly prefer post-baccalaureate certificate holders over those with only associate degrees, viewing the combination as optimal preparation.
Advanced Degrees: Specialization and Leadership
Graduate certificates and master’s degrees serve experienced paralegals pursuing specialization or management roles. These programs focus on advanced topics like intellectual property, international law, legal technology, or legal department management. Employers often support continuing education through tuition reimbursement programs, recognizing that advanced credentials enhance department capabilities and employee retention.
Paralegal Schools by State
The directory below lists accredited schools offering paralegal education programs across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Each listing includes program types offered, delivery formats available, ABA approval status where applicable, and institutional accreditation. This information was last verified in December 2025.
Important: Program availability, costs, and admission requirements change frequently. Always verify current information directly with schools before making enrollment decisions.
Paralegal Programs by State
- Alabama
- Alaska
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- California
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- District of Columbia
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- New York
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Ohio
- Oklahoma
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
Alabama
Auburn University
Paralegal Outreach Certificate – On Campus (undergraduate, pre-degree certificate for high school graduates)
Bachelor’s degree in Law and Justice – On Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- ABA-approved
Coastal Alabama Community College
Associate of Applied Sciences degree in paralegal studies
Paralegal Certificate – Advanced Substantive Law, Basic Substantive Law, Legal Analysis – On Campus
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies – On Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Enterprise State Community College
Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal Studies – Online
Short-Term Certificate in Legal Assistant/Paralegal – Online
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Faulkner University
Associate of Science in Legal Studies – On Campus, Online, Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies – On Campus, Online, Hybrid
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Gadsden State Community College
Associate in Applied Science Degree in Paralegal Studies – On Campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
The paralegal degree program is only offered at the Wallace Drive Gadsden campus location.
Shelton State Community College
Paralegal Certificate (short-term) – On Campus, Hybrid
Paralegal Certificate – On Campus, Hybrid
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies – On Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
South University
Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies – Online
- ABA approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Wallace State Community College
Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal Studies – Campus, Hybrid
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Alaska
University of Alaska Anchorage
Degree programs offered:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Legal Studies with AAS in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
Certificate programs offered:
Legal Nurse Consultant – Paralegal Certificate – On-Campus (post-associate RN)
Paralegal Studies Certificate – On-Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
It’s important to note that, per ABA approval requirements, legal specialty courses for degree and certificate programs can only be completed at the Anchorage campus.
University of Alaska Fairbanks
Degree programs offered:
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
Bachelor’s Degree with a minor in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Arizona
Arizona State University
Paralegal Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Arizona Western College
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – On Campus
Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies – On Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Bryan University
Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies and Litigation Technologies – Online
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies and Litigation Technologies – Online
- Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
Mohave Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Paralegal – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
National Paralegal College
Associate of Paralegal Studies – Online
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Phoenix College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate of Completion (CCL) – On-Campus (post-associate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Pima Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
Paralegal Post-Degree Certificate – On-Campus (post-associate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Rio Salado College
Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal – Online
Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Paralegal – Online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Scottsdale Community College
Associate of Arts with an emphasis in Law and Policy – On Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of Arizona
Bachelor of Arts in Law – On Campus, Online
Health Law for Health Professionals Graduate Certificate – Online
Regulatory Science Graduate Certificate – Online
Aging Law and Policy Graduate Certificate – Online
Health Information, Privacy, Compliance, and Data Security Graduate Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Yavapai College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Paralegal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Arkansas
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – On-Campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS-PULASKI TECHNICAL COLLEGE
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Technology – On Campus
Paralegal Technology Technical Certificate – On Campus
Certificate of Proficiency in Paralegal Technology – On Campus
Technical Certificate in Legal Secretarial – On Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT LITTLE ROCK
Minor in Legal Studies – On Campus
Bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies – On Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
California
Abraham Lincoln University
Associate of Paralegal Studies – online
Diploma in Paralegal Studies (post-baccalaureate)- online
- Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission
Allan Hancock College
AS in Paralegal Studies – campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
American River College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Legal Assisting – campus
Legal Assisting Certificate (post-associate) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS GLOBAL (FORMERLY BRANDMAN COLLEGE)
Undergraduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies – online
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Legal Studies-Business Law – online, hybrid
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Legal Studies-Paralegal Profession – online, hybrid
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Butte College
Associate in Science (AS) in Legal Office Administration – campus
Certificate in Legal Office Administration – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Legal Office Administration – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Canada College, Redwood City
AS in Paralegal Studies – campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
CERRITOS COLLEGE – NORWALK
Paralegal Associate of Arts (AA) Degree – campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) with the following specialization options: campus
- Business Law
- Commercial Law
- Criminal Law
- Family Law
- Legal Technology
- Litigation
- Probate and Estate Planning
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Cerro Coso Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – online
Paralegal Studies Certificate – online
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Chaffey College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
City College of San Francisco
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal/Legal Studies – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal/Legal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Claremont McKenna College
Legal Studies Sequence – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Coastline Community College
Paralegal Associate of Arts (AA) Degree – campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
College of the Canyons
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
College of the Sequoias
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Contra Costa College
Certificate of Achievement in Pre-Law Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Cuesta College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Associate of Arts (AA) in Legal Studies-Business or Social Science options – campus
Associate of Arts-Transfer (AA-T) in Law, Public Policy, and Society – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Cuyamaca College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
DeAnza College
Paralegal Certificate of Achievement-Advanced (post-associate) – campus
Associate of Science/Arts (AA/AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Downey Adult School
Paralegal Certificate of Completion – online
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission for Schools, Western Association of Schools and Colleges
East Los Angeles College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Law, Public Policy, and Society – campus
Executive Legal Assistant Certificate – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
El Camino College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate of Achievement (post-associate) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Evergreen Valley College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Fremont College – Cerritos
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Fresno City College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Fullerton College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Humphreys University-Stockton and Modesto campuses
Associate’s Degree in Legal Studies – campus
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – campus
Master of Legal Studies (MLS) – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Irvine Valley College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Associate of Arts (AA) in Law, Public Policy, and Society – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Los Angeles City College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Los Angeles Mission College
Certificate of Achievement in Legal Assisting/Paralegal – campus, online
Associate of Arts (AA) in Legal Assisting/Paralegal – campus, online
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Los Angeles Pierce College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Legal Office Procedures – campus
Certificate in Legal Office Procedures – campus
Certificate in Legal Office Skills – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Los Angeles Southwest College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Law/Paralegal Studies – campus
Law Office Specialist Certificate – campus
Law Office Assistant Specialist Certificate – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Los Angeles Trade Technical College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Loyola Marymount University
Master of Science in Legal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Merritt College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Mt. San Antonio College – Business Administration Department
Paralegal Associate of Science (AS) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Mt San Jacinto Community College District
Associate of Arts-Transfer (AA-T) in Law, Public Policy and Society – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
National University (Los Angeles and Woodland Hills, CA campuses only)
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus, online
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Paralegal Studies – campus, online
Paralegal Specialist Certificate (post-associate), with concentrations in: campus, online
- Corporations
- Criminal Law
- Litigation
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
OXNARD COLLEGE
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – campus
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Pasadena City College – Business Education Division
Paralegal Certificate of Achievement (post-associate), can be earned concurrently with any Associate of Science (AS) – campus
Associate of Arts-Transfer (AA-T) in Law, Public Policy, and Society – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Riverside City College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
San Diego Miramar College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Paralegal Certificate – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
San Joaquin Delta College
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies Certificate of Achievement – campus
Pre-Law Studies Certificate of Achievement – campus
Associate of Arts-Transfer (AA-T) in Law, Public Policy, and Society – campus, online
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies – campus
Associate of Arts-Transfer (AA-T) in Social Justice Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Santa Ana College
Paralegal Associate Degree – campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Santa Monica College
Legal Administrative Assistant Associate of Science (AS) – campus, online
Legal Administrative Assistant Certificate of Achievement – campus, online
Legal Office Clerk Certificate of Achievement – campus, online
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Santa Rosa Junior College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Scripps College
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – campus
Minor in Legal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Skyline College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
South Coast College
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
Southwestern College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies (Bilingual English/Spanish option) – campus
Associate of Science (AS) in Legal Office Management – campus
Associate of Science (AS) in Legal Office Professional (Bilingual English/Spanish option) – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies (Bilingual English/Spanish option) – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Legal Interpretation and Translation Intermediate (Spanish/English option) – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Legal Interpretation Basic (Spanish/English) – campus
Certificate of Proficiency in Legal Office Management Basic – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Legal Office Professional (Bilingual Spanish/English option) – campus
Certificate of Achievement in Legal Office Professional, Business Law specialty – campus
- Accreditation: Accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
SANTA BARBARA & VENTURA COLLEGES OF LAW AT VENTURA
Master of Legal Studies – online
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
University of California-Berkeley
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
University of California – Davis Extension
Paralegal Studies Certificate – online
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
University of California – Santa Barbara Extension
Paralegal Certificate Program (post-associate) –online
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
University of La Verne
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (campus), which can be completed concurrently with:
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
University of San Diego
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac): campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
University of Southern California
Minor in Legal Studies – campus
Certificate in US Legal Studies – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Victor Valley College
Paralegal Certificate – campus
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
West Los Angeles College – Culver City
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies (WLAC has transfer provisions with National University’s bachelor’s degree program in Paralegal Studies) – campus, online
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – campus, online
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
West Valley College
Paralegal Associate of Science (AS) – campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission
Colorado
Arapahoe Community College
Arapahoe Community College is in Littleton, with additional campuses in Parker and Castle Rock.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Paralegal – On-campus
Paralegal Certificate – On-campus (post-associate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Colorado Mountain College
Colorado Mountain College (CMC) is a 4-year school in Glenwood Springs. Additional campus locations include Aspen, Breckenridge, Dillon, Carbondale, Buena Vista, Glenwood Springs, Rifle, Vail Valley at Edwards, Leadville, and Steamboat Springs.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online (post-associate)
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Community College of Aurora
Community College of Aurora (CCA) is a 2-year community college located in Aurora.
Associate of General Studies Degree (AGS) – Paralegal – On-campus
Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) – Paralegal – On-campus
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Management with Paralegal Emphasis – On-campus
Paralegal Certificate – On-campus (post-associate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Community College of Denver
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal – On-campus
General Paralegal Certificate – On-campus (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Front Range Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal/Legal Assistant – On-campus and online
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Certificate – On-campus and online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Institute of Business & Medical Careers
Associate of Occupational Studies (AOS) – Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
United States Air Force Academy
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Connecticut
Post University
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – On-campus and online (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Quinnipiac University
Minor/Certificate in Legal Studies – On-campus (concurrent with bachelor’s degree)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
University of Hartford
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in University Studies with a Paralegal Studies concentration – On-campus
Paralegal Certificate – On-campus (post-associate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
University of New Haven
Associate of Science (AS) in Legal Studies – On-campus
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Studies with a Paralegal Concentration – On-campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – On-campus (post-associate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Delaware
Delaware Technical and Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal – On-campus
Paralegal Certificate – On-campus (Post-associate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Goldey-Beacom College
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English with a Legal Studies concentration –
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration with a Legal Studies concentration –
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Wesley College
Bachelor of Science in Law and Justice Studies – On-campus
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Law and Justice Studies – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Wilmington University
Bachelor of Science (BAS) in Law, Policy and Political Science with a Legal Studies concentration – On-campus, online
Post-Bachelor’s Paralegal Certificate – On-campus, online
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
District of Columbia
American University
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Legal Studies – On-campus
Master of Legal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Catholic University of America
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus, online
Certificate of Paralegal Studies – On-campus, online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
George Washington University
Master of Professional Studies in Paralegal Studies – On-campus, online
Graduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies – On-campus, online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Georgetown University
Paralegal Certificate Program – campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Florida
Atlantic Technical College
Legal Administrative Specialist Certificate – On-campus
- Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education
Broward College
Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Daytona State College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies/Legal Assisting – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Eastern Florida State College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Florida Gulf Coast University
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Studies – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online, on-campus
Advanced Paralegal Certificate – Online
Legal Investigation Certificate – Online, on-campus
Legal Secretary Certificate – Online, on-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Florida National University-Main Campus
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – Online
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Legal Studies – Online
Legal Assistant Diploma – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Florida SouthWestern State College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Florida State College at Jacksonville
Associate in Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Gulf Coast State College
Associate of Science (AS) in Legal Assisting/Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Hillsborough Community College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
Advanced Technical Certificate – Paralegal Studies – On-campus (post-baccalaureate)
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Indian River State College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Keiser University
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus or online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Manatee Technical College
Legal Administrative Specialist Certificate – On-campus
- Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education
Miami Dade College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Northwest Florida State College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Nova Southeastern University
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
Paralegal Studies Minor – Bachelor’s Degree – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Palm Beach State College
Associate in Science (AS) – Paralegal – On-campus
Paralegal Advanced Technical Certificate – On-campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Pasco-Hernando State College
Associate in Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus, online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Pensacola State College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies/Legal Assisting – On-campus, hybrid
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Rasmussen College-Florida
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Online
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Santa Fe College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Seminole State College of Florida
Associate of Science (AS) in Legal Assistant/Paralegal – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Sheridan Technical College
Legal Administrative Specialist Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education
South University – West Palm Beach
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Studies – On-campus
- ABA approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Southeastern University
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Southern Technical College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Paralegal – Online
- Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
St. Petersburg College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – On-campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies/Legal Assisting – On-campus, hybrid
Advanced Technical Certificate in Paralegal Studies (Undergraduate) – On-campus, hybrid
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tallahassee Community College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal/Legal Studies – Hybrid
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Central Florida
Bachelor of Arts/Science (BA or BS) in Legal Studies – On-campus, online
Minor in Legal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Miami
Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) in Legal Studies – On-campus
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Legal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of West Florida
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Legal Studies – On-campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Valencia College
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – On-campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Georgia
Athens Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- ABA-Approval: Yes
Atlanta Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Technical Certificate of Credit in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education
Augusta Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Technical Certificate in Paralegal Fundamentals – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Central Georgia Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Administrative Assistant Certificate – Campus
Advanced Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Clayton State University
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (post-baccalaureate/post-associate)
BS in Legal Studies—Campus
AAS Degree in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Coastal Pines Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online
Paralegal Studies Diploma – Online
Paralegal Fundamentals Certificate – Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Columbus Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Diploma – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Georgia Military College
AS or AA in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Georgia Piedmont Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Administrative Certificate – Online
Paralegal Studies Post-Bac Certificate – Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Gwinnett College-Lilburn, Marietta campus
AS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Diploma in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- Accreditation: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools; Council on Occupational Education
Mercer University
Certificate Program in Advanced Legal Writing, Research, and Drafting – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Savannah Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
South University – Savannah
AS in Paralegal Studies—Online
BS in Legal Studies – Online
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Southern Crescent Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Diploma – Campus, online
Technical Certificate in Paralegal Fundamentals – Campus, online
Paralegal Studies Post-Baccalaureate Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Georgia
Paralegal Certificate—Campus and Online
Advanced Paralegal Certificate—Online
- Non-credit continuing education programs
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of North Georgia
BAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate—Campus (post-baccalaureate, post-associate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Hawaii
University of Hawaii Kapi’Olani Community College
AS in Paralegal—Campus
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Idaho
College of Eastern Idaho
AAS in Legal Technology—Campus
Undergraduate Certificate in Legal Assistant—Campus (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Idaho State University
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
BAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Lewis-Clark State College
Intermediate Technical Certificate (ITC) in Paralegal—Campus (undergraduate, pre-degree)
AAS in Paralegal—Campus
BAS in Paralegal—Campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
North Idaho College
AAS in Paralegal
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Illinois
CITY COLLEGES OF CHICAGO – HAROLD WASHINGTON COLLEGE
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
City Colleges of Chicago – Wilbur Wright College
AAS in Paralegal—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
College of DuPage
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (undergraduate, post-associate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
College of Lake County
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Dominican University
BPS in Legal Studies – Campus, online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Elgin Community College
Certificate in Paralegal Studies—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Illinois Central College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Illinois State University
BA/BS in Legal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Joliet Junior College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Kaskaskia College
AAS in Legal Office Assisting – Campus
Certificate in Legal Office Personnel—Campus (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Lake Land College
AAS in Office Assistant-Legal—Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Lewis & Clark Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Certificate of Proficiency in Paralegal Studies—Campus (undergraduate)
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Lewis University
BA in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Paralegal Studies-Minor—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Loyola University Chicago
BA in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
MacCormac College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
McHenry County College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Moraine Valley Community College
Certificate-Legal Office Assistant—Campus (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Northwestern University
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Oakton Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate—Campus (undergraduate, pre-degree)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Rasmussen College-Illinois
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Roosevelt University
BA in Paralegal Studies—Campus
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Minor in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
South Suburban College
AAS in Paralegal/Legal Assistant—Campus
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Certificate—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Southern Illinois University – Carbondale
BS – Paralegal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Southwestern Illinois College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, hybrid
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Stautzenberger College-Rockford Career College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online
Paralegal Diploma – Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of Illinois – Springfield
MA in Legal Studies—Campus and/or Online
BA in Legal Studies—Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
WAUBONSEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Post-Associate Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
William Rainey Harper College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Indiana
Ball State University
BS – Legal Studies- Business Option—Campus
BS – Legal Studies – Public-Law Option—Campus
- ABA-approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Indiana University-Bloomington
BS in Business, Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- ABA-approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Indiana University-South Bend
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Ivy Tech Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus, online
AS in Legal Studies – Campus, online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Marian University
AS in Paralegal Studies—Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Purdue University Global
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies—Online (post-degree)
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Saint Mary-Of-The-Woods College
BSA in Paralegal Studies—Online
AS Paralegal Studies—Online
Paralegal Certificate—Online (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of Evansville
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Vincennes University
AS – Paralegal—Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Iowa
Des Moines Area Community College
AAS-Paralegal—Campus
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Grand View University
BA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Iowa Lakes Community College
AAS in Paralegal/Legal Studies—Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Kirkwood Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
North Iowa Area Community College
AAS Legal Office Specialist – Campus
Legal Office Associate Diploma – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Western Iowa Tech Community College
AAS in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies – Campus
Legal Secretary Diploma – Campus
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Advanced Diploma– Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Kansas
Hutchinson Community College
AAS in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies – Campus and online
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Johnson County Community College
AA, Paralegal – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved: Yes, both the degree and certificate programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Kansas City, Kansas Community College
AAS Paralegal – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Rasmussen College-Kansas
Paralegal Certificate – Campus, blended, and online
Associate’s Degree, Paralegal – Campus, blended, and online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Washburn University
Legal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
AA in Legal Studies – Campus
Bachelor of Legal Studies (BLS) – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky University
AAS in Paralegal Science – Campus, online blend
BA in Paralegal Science – Campus, online blend
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus, online blend
- ABA approved: yes, all three programs
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Kentucky Wesleyan University
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Madisonville Community College
AAS Paralegal Technology – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
MOREHEAD STATE UNIVERSITY
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
- ABA approved: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Northern Kentucky University
Master of Legal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Thomas More University
BA in Law – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Western Kentucky University
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
BA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Louisiana
Baton Rouge Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Bossier Parish Community College
Certificate of Technical Studies in Legal Assisting – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Grambling State University
BS in Criminal Justice with a Paralegal Studies Concentration – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Nunez Community College
AA Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Technical Studies in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Remington College-Shreveport Campus
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
Tulane University
AA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
BA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, all three programs
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Maine
Husson University
BS Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
Advanced Civil Practice Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
Advanced Criminal Practice Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
University of Maine at Augusta
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Maryland
Allegany College of Maryland
Associate’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus, hybrid
Legal Studies Certificate – Campus, online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Anne Arundel Community College
AAS Paralegal Studies, Business – Campus
AAS Paralegal Studies, General Practice – Campus
AAS Paralegal Studies, Litigation – Campus
Paralegal Studies Business Certificate – Campus
Paralegal Studies General Practice Certificate – Campus
Paralegal Studies Litigation Certificate – Campus
- ABA-approved – All AAS degree programs are ABA-approved; all certificate programs are not ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Baltimore City Community College
AAS Legal Assistant – Campus, blended, and online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Cecil College
AA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Community College of Baltimore County
AAS in Legal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – The AAS degree is ABA-approved; the certificate program is not ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Frederick Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Hagerstown Community College
AA Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Harford Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Montgomery College
AAS Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
Legal Analysis Letter of Recognition – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, the AAS and Certificate programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Prince George’s Community College
AAS in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies – Campus and online
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Stevenson University
BS in Legal Studies – Campus and hybrid
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
University of Baltimore
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
MA in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
University of Maryland Global Campus
BS in Legal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Massachusetts
Bentley University
Minor in Law – Campus
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Boston University
Paralegal Certification – Online
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Bristol Community College
AS in Paralegal and Legal Studies – Campus, hybrid
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – Campus, hybrid
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Bunker Hill Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Hampshire College
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Lasell University
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Massachusetts Bay Community College
AS Paralegal Studies – Campus and partial online
Paralegal Certificate – Campus and partial online
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Middlesex Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and hybrid
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus and hybrid
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Mount Wachusett Community College
Associate Degree in Legal Studies – Campus and online
Paralegal Certificate – Campus and online
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
North Shore Community College
AS Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Northeastern University
Master of Legal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Quincy College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Suffolk University
AS Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Michigan
Central Michigan University
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Davenport University
AS in Legal Studies – Campus
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, all three programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Delta College
Associate in Business Studies, Legal Support Professional – Campus
Advanced Certificate in Law Office Specialist – Campus
Advanced Certificate in Law Office Foundation – Campus
Paralegal Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Eastern Michigan University
BS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Ferris State University
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Grand Valley State University
BA/BS in Legal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Henry Ford College
Associate of Business in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – The Associate of Business in Paralegal Studies program is ABA-approved; the certificate program is not ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Kalamazoo Valley Community College
Legal Office Assistant Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Lansing Community College
Associate of Business in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Macomb Community College
AAS in Legal Assistant Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Madonna University
AS Paralegal Studies – Campus
BS Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, all three programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Michigan State University
BA in Political Science Pre-Law – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
North Central Michigan College
AAS Legal Assistant – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Northern Michigan University
Paralegal AAS – Campus
Paralegal Bachelor’s Degree – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Northwestern Michigan College
Advanced Paralegal Certificate Course – Online
Paralegal Certificate Course – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Oakland Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Oakland University
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of Detroit Mercy
Certificate in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Washtenaw Community College
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Campus with the option for some online courses
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Wayne County Community College District
Paralegal Technology AAS – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Western Michigan University
Bachelor’s Degree in Pre-Law – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Minnesota
Anoka Technical College
AAS in Legal Assisting – Online
Legal Assistant Diploma – Online
Legal Assistant Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Bethany Lutheran College
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Dakota County Technical College
AAS in Legal Administrative Assisting – Campus, online
Legal Administrative Assistant Diploma – Campus, online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Hamline University
Legal Studies Bachelor’s Degree – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – The certificate program is ABA-approved, the other program is not
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Inver Hills Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Lake Superior College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Minnesota State University – Moorhead
BS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
North Hennepin Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
Rasmussen College-Minnesota
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online, and blended
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus, online, and blended
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Ridgewater College
AAS in Legal Assisting – Campus
Legal Assistant Diploma – Campus
Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus, online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Winona State University
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Mississippi
Coahoma Community College
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Hinds Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus and online
Paralegal Technology Certificate – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Holmes Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Paralegal Technology Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Itawamba Community College
AA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Jones County Junior College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Mississippi College
BS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
Minor in Paralegal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Mississippi University for Women
BS/BA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Minor – Campus and online
- ABA-approved – Yes, the BS/BA programs are ABA-approved; the minor is not
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Northwest Mississippi Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus and online
Paralegal Certificate – Campus and online
Paralegal Technical Certificate – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Mississippi
BPS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
University of Southern Mississippi
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Missouri
Drury University
AS Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Metropolitan Community College
AAS in Paralegal Practice – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Missouri Southern State University
Paralegal Studies Certificate/Minor – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Missouri Western State University
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Assistant Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
AS in Legal Assistant Studies – Campus
BS in Criminal Justice, Legal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, all four programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Saint Louis Community College
AAS in Legal Studies for the Paralegal – Campus
Certificate in Legal Studies for the Paralegal (post-associate) – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Webster University
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
MA in Legal Studies – Campus and synchronous online
Legal Studies Graduate Certificate (post-bac) – Campus and synchronous online
- ABA-approved – Yes, all three programs on Saint Louis area campuses are ABA-approved, except the minor
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Montana
University of Montana – Missoula
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
University of Providence – Great Falls
Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies – online
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Paralegal Studies – online
Army Paralegal Program (entry requires completion of Army 27D10 AIT Training) – online
Air Force Paralegal Studies Program (entry requires an Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies from the Community College of the Air Force) – online
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Nebraska
Bellevue University
BS in Legal Studies – Online, campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
College of Saint Mary
Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-bac) – Campus
Paralegal Studies Minor (only for nursing students enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Metropolitan Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Legal Studies – Paralegal Option – Campus
Legal Studies – Paralegal Accelerated Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of Nebraska Omaha
BS in Business Administration-Concentration in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Nevada
College of Southern Nevada
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Post-Associate’s Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Northwest Career College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online, hybrid
Legal Assistant Diploma – Hybrid, online
- Accreditation: Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
Truckee Meadows Community College
Paralegal/Law Program Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
University of Nevada Reno
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus (extended studies)
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
New Hampshire
Franklin Pierce University
Paralegal Studies Online Undergraduate Certificate – Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Nashua Community College
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
New Hampshire Technical Institute
Associate of Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (admission requires at least 45 college-level credits) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
University of New Hampshire
Minor in Legal Advocacy – Campus
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
New Jersey
Bergen Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Nurse Consulting Certificate (post-associate, admission also requires current RN license) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Berkeley College-Woodland Park
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Legal Studies – Campus, online
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Studies – Campus, online
Legal Studies Certificate Program – Campus, online
Legal Nurse Consulting Certificate – Campus, online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Brookdale Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Camden County College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Centenary University
Paralegal and Legal Assistant Studies Minor – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Cumberland County College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Essex County College
Associate in Science (AS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Achievement in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Achievement in Nurse Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Mercer County Community College
Paralegal Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Campus
Paralegal Certificate of Proficiency (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Middlesex County College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Montclair State University
Minor in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Justice Studies with a Paralegal Studies Concentration – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Ocean County College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Business-Paralegal Studies Option – Online
Legal Secretary Certificate of Proficiency – Online
Certificate of Proficiency in Paralegal Studies – Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Raritan Valley Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
ROWAN COLLEGE OF SOUTH JERSEY AT GLOUCESTER COUNTY
Paralegal Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Seton Hall University
Minor in Legal Studies in Business – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Sussex County Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Union County College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate of Achievement (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
William Paterson University of New Jersey
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
New Mexico
Central New Mexico Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, Higher Learning Commission
Clovis Community College
AAS in Legal Assistant Studies – Online
Certificate of Completion in Legal Assistant Studies – Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Navajo Technical University
Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
New Mexico State University-Alamogordo
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online
Legal Assistant Certificate – Online
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Santa Fe Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
Legal Secretary Certificate – Campus
Law Office Administrative Assistant Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
University of New Mexico
Paralegal Certificate –Hybrid
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
New York
Berkeley College
AAS in Legal Studies – Campus and online
BS in Legal Studies – Campus and online
Paralegal Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Bronx Community College of the City University of New York
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Broome Community College of the State University of New York
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online options
Paralegal Certificate – Campus, online options
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Bryant & Stratton College (Albany, Buffalo, Greece, Online, Syracuse North)
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
Legal Office Assistant Diploma – Campus and online
Paralegal Certificates – Online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
College of Technology at Canton (SUNY)
BS in Legal Studies – Campus and online
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus, online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Corning Community College (SUNY)
Paralegal Certificate – Online
Legal Secretary Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Daemen College
BS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Dutchess Community College of the State University of New York
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Elmira College
BA/BS in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Erie Community College of the State University of New York
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Finger Lakes Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Genesee Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and partially online
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Herkimer University of New York
AAS in Legal Studies – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Hofstra University
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Hostos Community College (CUNY)
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Ithaca College
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Minor – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Jefferson Community College of the State University of New York
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
LaGuardia Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Long Island University – Brooklyn
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Marist College
Paralegal Certificate – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Mercy College
BS in Legal Studies: Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Monroe Community College of the State University of New York
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Nassau Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Nazareth College
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
New York City College of Technology
AAS in Legal Assistant Studies – Campus
BS in Legal Assistant Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Rockland Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Schenectady County Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
St. John Fisher College
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
St. John’s University
AS in Legal Studies – Campus
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Suffolk County Community College of the State University of New York
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tompkins Cortland Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Touro College – NY School of Career and Applied Studies
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
United States Military Academy
Bachelor’s Degree in Law and Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
University of Buffalo
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Westchester Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
North Carolina
Alamance Community College
AAS in Office Administration with a Legal concentration – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Family Law Certificate – Campus
Wills and Estates Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Cape Fear Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Diploma in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Civil Litigation Certificate – Campus
Real Property Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Carteret Community College
Paralegal Technology Associate’s Degree – Campus and some online
Paralegal Diploma (post-bac) – Campus and some online
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Central Carolina Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus and some hybrid
Paralegal Technology Diploma (post-associate) – Campus and some hybrid
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Central Piedmont Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus, hybrid, and some online
Diploma in Paralegal Technology (post-bac) – Campus, hybrid, and some online
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Coastal Carolina Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Paralegal Technology Diploma – Campus
Paralegal Certificates – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Davidson County Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Paralegal Civil Litigation Certificate – Campus
Paralegal Real Estate Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Durham Tech
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus and partially online
Paralegal Technology Diploma – Campus and partially online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Fayetteville Technical Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Paralegal Diploma (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Forsyth Technical Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Paralegal Technology Diploma (post-associate) – Campus
Paralegal Technology Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Gaston College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus and some online
Paralegal Technology Certificate – Campus and some online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Guilford Technical Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Paralegal Technology Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Johnston Community College
Associate Degree in Paralegal Technology – Classroom and online
General Law Office Certificate (post-associate) – Classroom and online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Meredith College
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Pitt Community College
Associate Degree in Paralegal Technology – Campus and some online
AAS in Legal Office Administration – Campus
Paralegal Technology Diploma (post-bac) – Campus and some online
Legal Office Administration Certificate – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
South Piedmont Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus and some online
Paralegal Technology Diploma – Campus and some online
Paralegal Technology Certificate – Campus and some online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Southwestern Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Paralegal Technology Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Vance-Granville Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus and some online
Paralegal Technology Certificate – Campus and some online
Paralegal Technology Diploma – Campus and some online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Western Piedmont Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Online with some campus-based courses
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Wilson Community College
AAS in Paralegal Technology – Campus
Paralegal Diploma – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
North Dakota
Bismarck State College
AAS in Legal Administrative Office Assistant – Campus, hybrid
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Rasmussen College-North Dakota
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and/or online
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-associate) – Campus and/or online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of North Dakota
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
Advanced Paralegal Certificate – Online
Legal Nurse Consulting Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Ohio
Bryant and Stratton College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and online
Legal Office Assistant Diploma – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Capital University Law School
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
Legal Nurse Consulting – Online with a monthly campus class
Life Care Planner – 5 online modules and 1 campus-based module
- ABA-approved – The Paralegal Certificate and Legal Nurse Consulting programs are both approved by the ABA; the Life Care Planner program is not
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Cincinnati State Technical and Community College
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Administrative Assistant Associate of Applied Business (AAB) – Online
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Clark State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and some classes online
- ABA-approved – The paralegal core courses at Sinclair Community College are ABA-approved; the non-core courses at Clark State CC are not ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Columbus State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies/Legal Assisting – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Cuyahoga Community College
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Eastern Gateway Community College
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Paralegal Studies – Campus-based with some online classes
Paralegal Certificate – Campus and some online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Edison State Community College
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – The AAB program is ABA-approved; the certificate program is not ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
ETI Technical College
Legal Assistant Associate of Applied Business – Campus
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
Kent State University
AAS in Legal Assisting – Campus
BA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Minor in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – The BA, Minor, and Certificate programs are all ABA-approved; the AAS program is not ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Lake Erie College
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Minor – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Lakeland Community College
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Mount St. Joseph University
AA in Legal Studies – Campus
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – All programs except the minor are ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Northwest State Community College
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Ohio University
Paralegal Certificate – Online, campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Sinclair Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – The paralegal core courses at Sinclair Community College are ABA-approved; the non-core courses at Clark State Community College are not ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Stark State College
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Legal Assisting – Campus
Certificate in Legal Assisting – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Stautzenberger College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online
Paralegal Studies Diploma – Online
- Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
University of Akron
Advanced Paralegal Certificate – Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
BS in Paralegal Studies –Online
Minor in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – All programs except the minor are ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of Cincinnati-Clermont College
Associate of Applied Business in Law and Paralegal Studies – Online
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Online
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of Northwestern Ohio
Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Legal Assisting – Campus and online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of Toledo
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
BS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-bac) – Campus
Nurse Paralegal Certificate (post-ADN, post-RN) – Campus
Minor in Legal Specialties – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, all programs except the minor
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Ursuline College
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Minor – Campus
Legal Studies Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, the BA and Certificate programs are ABA-approved; the minor is not
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Oklahoma
Community Care College
Paralegal Studies Diploma – Online
- Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
East Central University
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
- ABA approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Francis Tuttle Technology Center
Legal Secretary Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Oklahoma Board of Career and Technology Education
Indian Capital Technology Center
Paralegal Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Oklahoma State Department of Education and the Oklahoma State Accrediting Agency
Metro Technology Centers
Legal Office Assistant Certificate – Campus
Legal Receptionist – Campus
- Accredited by the Oklahoma Board of Career and Technology Education
Moore Norman Technology Center
Certificate in Legal Office Services – Campus
- Accredited by the Oklahoma Board of Career and Technology Education
Northeastern State University
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Rose State College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Tulsa Community College
AA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- ABA approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Tulsa Technology Center
Legal Professional Assistant Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Oklahoma Board of Career and Technology Education
University of Central Oklahoma
Bachelor’s of Business Administration-Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Oregon
Portland Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-associate) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Northwest Accreditation Commission
Umpqua Community College
Paralegal Studies AAS – Online
Legal Assistant Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Northwest Accreditation Commission
Pennsylvania
Bucks County Community College
AA-Paralegal Studies — Campus
Certificate-Paralegal Studies — Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
California University of Pennsylvania
BA in Jurisprudence-Legal Studies – Online
MS in Legal Studies – Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Central Penn College
AS-Paralegal — Campus
BS in Legal Studies — Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Clarion University of Pennsylvania
BSBA-Paralegal Studies — Campus
AS-Paralegal Studies — Campus
Advanced Paralegal Studies Certificate — Campus (post-baccalaureate)
Advanced Paralegal Studies Oil and Gas Certificate — Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Community College of Allegheny County
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Community College of Philadelphia
AAS-Paralegal Studies — Campus
Certificate-Paralegal Studies — Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Delaware County Community College
AAS-Paralegal Studies — Campus
Certificate-Paralegal Studies — Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Drexel University
BS in Business Administration-Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Gannon University
BA-Legal Studies/Paralegal – Campus
AA-Legal Studies/Paralegal – Campus
Certificate-Legal Studies – Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Harrisburg Area Community College
AA-Paralegal Studies — Campus
Paralegal Certificate — Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Lansdale School of Business
ASB-Paralegal — Campus
- Accreditation: Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges & Schools
Lehigh Carbon Community College
AAS-Paralegal Studies — Campus
Certificate-Paralegal Studies — Campus (undergraduate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Luzerne County Community College
AAS in Legal Assisting – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Manor College
AS-Paralegal — Campus
Certificate-Paralegal — Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Mount Aloysius College
Associate’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Northampton Community College
AAS-Paralegal — Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Peirce College
BS-Paralegal — Campus/Online
AS-Paralegal — Campus/Online
Certificate–Paralegal — Campus/Online (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Pennsylvania Highlands Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Point Park University
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Saint Francis University
BA in Pre-Law and Paralegal Studies – Campus
Minor in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Susquehanna University
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Temple University
Bachelor of Business Administration in Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Minor – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
University of Pennsylvania
BS in Legal Studies and Business Ethics – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies and History – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh campus
BA in Legal Studies – Hybrid
Minor in Legal Studies – Hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Westmoreland County Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Diploma – Hybrid
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Widener University
AS in Legal Studies – Campus
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
Minor in Legal Studies and Analysis – Campus
Legal Nurse Consulting Certificate – Campus
Legal Nurse Consulting, Forensic Nursing concentration, Certificate – Campus
Legal Studies Certificates with concentrations in Corporate Law, Criminal Law, Elder Law, Estate Administration, Health Law, Intellectual Property, Litigation, and Real Estate – Campus
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Rhode Island
Community College of Rhode Island
AS in Legal Studies-Paralegal Studies Concentration—Campus
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
Roger Williams University
BS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
AS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Certificate in Healthcare Paralegal—Campus (post-baccalaureate)
Certificate in Nurse Paralegal—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
Certificate in Paralegal Studies—Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education
South Carolina
Bob Jones University
AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Florence-Darlington Technical College
AAS-Paralegal—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Greenville Technical College
AAS Paralegal—Campus
Paralegal Preparatory Certification Class—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Horry-Georgetown Technical College
AAS- Paralegal—Campus
Certificate- Paralegal Specialist—Campus (post-associate, post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Midlands Technical College
Associate in Public Service-Paralegal Concentration—Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate—Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
South University-Columbia
AS-Paralegal Studies—Online
BS in Legal Studies – Online
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Technical College of the Lowcountry
AAS-Paralegal—Campus
Certificate-Paralegal Specialist—Campus (post-associate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Trident Technical College
AAS-Paralegal—Campus
Certificate in Applied Science-Paralegal—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
York Technical College
AS in Administrative Office Technology-Paralegal Studies—Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
South Dakota
National American University – Rapid City/Sioux
BS-Paralegal Studies—Online
BS-Professional Legal Studies—Online
AAS-Paralegal Studies—Online
AAS-Professional Legal Studies—Online
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Sinte Gleska University
Bachelor’s Degree in Business with a Legal Studies Minor – Campus
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tennessee
Chattanooga State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Paralegal Studies Technical Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Nashville State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, hybrid
Paralegal Studies Technical Certificate – Campus, hybrid
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Pellissippi State Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Roane State
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
South College
BS in Legal Studies—Campus
AS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies—Campus (post-associate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Southwest Tennessee Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga
Legal Secretary Certificate – Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Texas
Alvin Community College
AAS in Paralegal—Campus
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (post-degree)
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Amarillo Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Professional Certificate in Legal Studies/Paralegal—Campus (post-degree)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Arlington Career Institute
Paralegal/Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus, hybrid
- Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
Austin Community College
AAS in Paralegal—Campus
Advanced Paralegal Technical Certificate—Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Blinn College
AAS in Legal Assistant—Campus/Online
Legal Office Certificate—Campus/Online (undergraduate)
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Center for Advanced Legal Studies
AAS in Paralegal—Campus/Online
Paralegal Certificate—Campus/Online (undergraduate)
- Accredited by the Council on Occupational Education
Central Texas College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus, online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Collin County Community College District
AAS in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies – Campus
Certificate of Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Dallas College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Del Mar College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Advanced Technical Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
El Paso Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Completion in Paralegal Studies (post-associate’s) – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Houston Community College
Paralegal Technology AAS – Campus
Paralegal Technology – Law Office Clerk Certificate Level 1 – Campus
Paralegal Technology – Legal Assistant Certificate Level 1 – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Kilgore College
AAS in Legal Assisting/Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Lamar State College-Port Arthur
AAS in Paralegal—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Lee College
AAS in Paralegal—Campus
Paralegal Certificate—Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Lone Star College
AAS in Paralegal—Campus
Advanced Technical Certificate in Paralegal—Campus (post-degree)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
McLennan Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Completion in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Midland Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online
Beginning Legal Technician Certificate – Campus, online
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
National American University-Georgetown
AS in Professional Legal Studies – Online
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online
BS in Professional Legal Studies – Online
BS in Paralegal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Navarro College
AAS in Paralegal Studies (option for Criminal Justice emphasis) – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Odessa College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Level I Certificate – Campus
Legal Studies Level II Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Paul Quinn College
BA in Legal Studies and Criminology – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
San Antonio College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Administrative Assistant/Secretary Level I Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
San Jacinto College-North
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
South Plains College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
South Texas College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Office Specialist Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
St. Mary’s University
Legal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Stephen F Austin State University
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tarleton State University
BA in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tarrant County College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
Advanced Technical Certificate in Paralegal Studies—Campus (post-baccalaureate)
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Texas A&M University-Commerce
BA/BS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Texas Southmost College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Assisting Certificate of Proficiency Level 1 – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Texas Wesleyan University
BS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tyler Junior College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Hybrid
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
University of Houston-Clear Lake
BS in Legal Studies – Campus, hybrid
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Wharton County Junior College
AAS in Paralegal Studies—Campus
- ABA-Approval: Yes
- Accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Utah
Ensign College
AAS/AS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Salt Lake Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Southern Utah University
AAS Paralegal Studies – online
Legal Studies Minor – online
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Utah Valley University
Associate of Science (AS) in Legal Studies – campus
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Legal Studies – campus
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Legal Studies – campus
Certificate of Proficiency in Legal Studies (post-associate) – campus
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Vermont
Champlain College
BA in Law – Campus
Graduate Certificate in Employment Law – Online
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Virginia
American National University
Paralegal Associate Degree – campus
Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-associate) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Bryant and Stratton College-Virginia Beach
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online
Legal Office Assistant Diploma – Campus, online
George Mason University
Minor in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Hampton University
Certificate in Paralegal Studies – online
BA- Paralegal Studies – online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
J Sargeant Reynolds Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Brightpoint College (Formerly John Tyler CC)
AS in Business Administration-Paralegal Studies Specialization – Online, campus
Career Studies Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Online, campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Liberty University
AA in Paralegal Studies – Online
BS in Paralegal Studies – Online
Undergraduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
LAUREL RIDGE (FORMERLY LORD FAIRFAX COMMUNITY COLLEGE)
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Office Legal Assistant/Paralegal Studies Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Mountain Empire Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online
Legal Office Assisting Certificate – Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
New River Community College
AAS in Paralegal Administrative Support – Campus, online
Paralegal Assistant Career Studies Certificate – Campus, online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Northern Virginia Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Patrick Henry Community College
AAS in Legal Assisting – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Regent University
BS in Paralegal Studies – Online
MA in Law-Advanced Paralegal Studies – Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
South University-Virginia Beach
AS in Paralegal Studies – Online
BS in Legal Studies – Online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Southwest Virginia Community College
Legal Studies Certificate – Campus, online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Thomas Nelson Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Tidewater Community College
Paralegal General Practice Specialist Certificate – Campus
Legal Assistant Certificate – Campus
Litigation Specialist Certificate – Campus
AAS Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Virginia Western Community College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, hybrid
Legal Office Assisting Career Studies Certificate – Campus, online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Wytheville Community College
AAS in Administrative Support Technology-Legal Assistant Specialization – Campus, online
Career Studies Certificate in Legal Assisting – Campus, online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
Washington
Edmonds Community College
Paralegal Associate of Technical Arts Degree – campus
Advanced Paralegal Certificate (post-bac or concurrent with a bachelor’s degree) – campus
Medical Paralegal Certificate (earning this requires at least an associate’s degree plus a nursing degree or nursing diploma) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Green River College
Associate of Applied Arts in Legal Administrative Assisting – Campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Highline College: Des Moines
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Paralegal Plus Certificate (post-bac or concurrent with a bachelor’s degree) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Lower Columbia College
AA in Pre-Law – Campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Olympic College
AA in Pre-Law – Campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Peninsula College
AAS in Administrative Office Systems-Legal Option – Online
Legal Assistant I-Short Term Certificate – Online
Legal Assistant II-Short Term Certificate – Online
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Renton Technical College
AAS -Paralegal Studies – online/hybrid
Certificate-Paralegal Studies – online/hybrid
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
South Puget Sound Community College
AAS -Paralegal – campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Spokane Community College
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies – campus
Paralegal Certificate (admission requires any BA/BS degree, a Legal Secretary AA/AAS degree, or a Legal Administration Assistant AAS) – campus
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tacoma Community College
Paralegal Associate of Applied Science (AAS) – Campus, hybrid
Paralegal Pro-Certificate (post-associate) – Campus, hybrid
- ABA Approval: Yes
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
University of Washington (Seattle, Tacoma campuses)
Certificate in Paralegal Studies (post-baccalaureate) – campus
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Whatcom Community College
AS – Paralegal Studies – hybrid
Certificate – Paralegal Studies – hybrid
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Yakima Valley College
AAS in Business Technology-Bilingual Legal Office Assistant – Campus, hybrid
AAS in Business Technology-Legal Office Assistant – Campus, hybrid
Certificate in Business Technology-Legal Receptionist – Campus, hybrid
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
West Virginia
Alderson Broaddus University
BS/BA in Legal Studies – Campus
Legal Studies Minor – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
American Public University System
AS in Legal Studies – Campus
BS in Legal Studies – Campus
MA in Legal Studies – Campus
Undergraduate Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Blue Ridge Community and Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Legal Office Assistant Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
BridgeValley Community and Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Mountwest Community & Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Certificate of Proficiency in Legal Support – Campus
- ABA-approved
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
New River Community and Technical College
Certificate of Applied Science, Legal Office Assistant – Campus
AAS in Legal Assisting – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Pierpont Community and Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
West Virginia Junior College
Associate Degree in Legal Office Assisting – Campus and online
Certificate in Legal Office Assisting – Campus
- Accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
West Virginia University
Master of Legal Studies – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Wisconsin
Bryant and Stratton College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Online and campus
Legal Office Assistant Diploma – Online and campus
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Chippewa Valley Technical College
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Fox Valley Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe College
Tribal Court Lay Advocate Certificate – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Lakeshore Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus and synchronous video
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Madison Area Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Milwaukee Area Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Diploma (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Moraine Park Technical College
AAS Paralegal Studies – Campus, online
- Accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools Higher Learning Commission
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
RASMUSSEN COLLEGE
AAS in Paralegal Studies –Online
Paralegal Certificate – Online
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of Wisconsin-Superior
Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
University of Wisconsin – Madison
BA/BS in Legal Studies – Campus
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Western Technical College
AAS in Paralegal Studies – Campus, online, hybrid
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Wyoming
Casper College
AA in Paralegal Studies – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Laramie County Community College
Paralegal AAS – Campus
Paralegal Certificate (post-bac) – Campus
- ABA-approved – Yes, both programs
- Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose between certificate and degree programs?
Your choice depends on your current education and career goals. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, a post-baccalaureate certificate offers the fastest route to paralegal credentials in 6-12 months. Recent high school graduates benefit most from associate degrees that provide a comprehensive education over two years. If you’re targeting competitive positions at large law firms or federal agencies, bachelor’s degrees provide the strongest credentials and typically command higher starting salaries.
Does ABA approval really matter for my career?
ABA approval matters most if you’re targeting federal government positions, where it’s often required, or large law firms, where it’s strongly preferred. However, thousands of successful paralegals work in state courts, small to mid-size firms, and corporate legal departments without ABA-approved credentials. Institutional accreditation is universally important, while ABA approval provides additional credibility for specific career paths. Weigh the approval requirement against program cost, location, and flexibility.
Can I become a paralegal through online education?
Yes, many accredited universities and colleges offer online paralegal programs that provide the same quality education as campus-based programs. As of 2025, the ABA approves online programs that include at least nine semester credits of legal specialty courses through synchronous (live, real-time) instruction. This means you can earn an ABA-approved credential entirely online through programs at institutions like UCLA Extension, University of Cincinnati, and San Francisco State University. These programs require participation in scheduled live video classes where you interact with instructors and classmates in real time, combining flexibility with the interactive learning experience ABA standards require. Online education works best for self-motivated students who can manage time effectively and participate consistently in scheduled synchronous sessions.
How much does paralegal school cost?
Costs vary significantly by program type and institution. Community college associate degrees typically range from $6,000 to $18,000 in total tuition. University-based certificate programs cost $4,500 to $12,000. Bachelor’s degrees at public universities average $45,000 to $65,000 for in-state students or $90,000+ for out-of-state students. Private universities charge higher tuition but often provide more financial aid. Online programs sometimes cost less than campus-based options due to reduced facility expenses. Most students qualify for federal financial aid through FAFSA, and many employers offer tuition reimbursement for career-advancing education.
Can I transfer paralegal credits between states?
Credits from accredited institutions generally transfer between states, though receiving schools make final determinations about which credits apply toward degree requirements. Regional accreditation facilitates easier transfer than national accreditation. ABA-approved program credits typically transfer smoothly to other ABA-approved programs. If you plan to relocate, choose programs with regional accreditation and verify transfer policies with your target school before enrolling. General education credits usually transfer more readily than specialized legal courses.
What’s the difference between institutional accreditation and ABA approval?
Institutional accreditation evaluates entire schools on criteria including faculty qualifications, completion rates, financial stability, and overall education quality. It’s performed by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and is essential for federal financial aid eligibility. ABA approval is a voluntary process specific to paralegal programs that examines curriculum content, faculty credentials, and practical training opportunities. A school can have institutional accreditation without ABA approval, but cannot have ABA approval without institutional accreditation. Both matter, but institutional accreditation is universally required.
How long does it take to complete a paralegal program?
Timeline varies by credential type and enrollment status. Full-time undergraduate certificates require 6-12 months. Associate degrees take two years full-time or 3-4 years part-time. Post-baccalaureate certificates range from 6-18 months, depending on credit requirements. Bachelor’s degrees require four years for traditional students or 2-3 additional years for those transferring associate degrees. Part-time and online programs offer flexibility but extend completion time. Accelerated programs may compress timelines through intensive scheduling or year-round enrollment.
Do I need a specific undergraduate major to apply to paralegal programs?
No, paralegal programs accept students from all undergraduate majors. Post-baccalaureate certificate programs specifically welcome career changers with degrees in any field. In fact, diverse educational backgrounds often strengthen paralegal candidates—business majors excel in corporate law, nurses transition well into medical malpractice, and teachers bring strong research and communication skills. The only prerequisite is usually high school graduation for undergraduate certificates and associate degrees, or any bachelor’s degree for post-baccalaureate certificates.
Key Takeaways
- Always verify institutional accreditation before enrolling—this ensures your degree or certificate will be recognized by employers and qualifies you for federal financial aid
- ABA approval matters most for federal government positions and large law firms, but isn’t required for most paralegal roles in state courts, small firms, or corporate legal departments
- Certificate programs work best for career changers who already hold degrees, while associate degrees suit recent high school graduates seeking a comprehensive education
- Online programs from accredited schools provide quality education with maximum flexibility, though they cannot currently receive ABA approval
- Bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies or post-baccalaureate certificates give you the strongest competitive edge for positions at major law firms and federal agencies
- Program costs vary dramatically—community colleges offer the most affordable options, while private universities charge higher tuition but often provide more financial aid
- Always verify current program availability, costs, and requirements directly with schools before making enrollment decisions, as details change frequently
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School Directory Disclaimer: This directory was last updated in December 2025 and reflects information available at that time. Program offerings, accreditation status, delivery formats, and contact information may change. Always verify current program details directly with schools before making enrollment decisions. Schools may close programs, change admission requirements, or modify curricula without notice. Report outdated information.
Expert Review: This directory was compiled by certified paralegals and reviewed by education specialists familiar with ABA approval standards, NALA certification requirements, and NFPA guidelines. Content reflects current understanding of paralegal education standards as of December 2025.
