Iowa doesn’t regulate paralegals, but the Iowa Supreme Court recommends voluntary NALA certification. You can enter the field through certificate programs, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees from Iowa’s seven paralegal programs. With 2,530 paralegals earning a median salary of $53,280 and strong job growth projected through 2032, Iowa offers solid career opportunities.
Located just a few hours from major metropolitan areas like 
Chicago, Kansas City, Omaha, and Minneapolis/St. Paul, Iowa serves as the nucleus of America’s Heartland. Thanks to this strategic location, the state has long enjoyed a resilient, diversified economy with strength in advanced manufacturing, agriculture, biosciences, and financial services. For paralegals, this translates to exciting professional opportunities in everything from corporate law and real estate to litigation and immigration law.
Iowa’s economy includes major corporations like Principal Financial, a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Des Moines, alongside a diverse array of regional firms specializing in biotech, engineering, and manufacturing. Whether you build your reputation in corporate law with a major financial services player or specialize in family law, commercial litigation, or environmental law with regional firms like Bradley & Riley PC or Nyemaster Goode, you’ll find plenty of professional opportunities throughout the state.
With the right education and credentials, plus a solid skillset that includes strong organizational abilities, an analytical mindset, sharp attention to detail, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments, you’ll be well-positioned to excel in Iowa’s paralegal profession. Iowa’s central location also creates opportunities to explore paralegal careers in neighboring states like Illinois and Minnesota if you’re considering regional options.
Paralegal Requirements in Iowa
Iowa doesn’t regulate paralegals through state licensing or mandatory certification. However, in 2003, the Iowa Supreme Court stated that it’s desirable for paralegals to obtain voluntary national certification through the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). The Iowa Paralegal Association (IPA), formerly known as IALA, is an affiliate of NALA and actively supports this recommendation.
Like most states, Iowa defines paralegals as falling within the broader category of legal “paraprofessionals.” As such, their work must be supervised by an attorney, and the supervising attorney accepts responsibility for the paraprofessional’s work conduct. This supervision requirement protects both clients and paralegals while ensuring ethical standards are maintained.
Because registration and certification aren’t required in Iowa, aspiring paralegals have flexibility in how they enter the field. You can choose formal education through certificate or degree programs, or in some cases, enter through on-the-job training. However, most employers increasingly prefer or require formal paralegal education due to the growing complexity of legal work and the expanding responsibilities paralegals handle.
Paralegal Programs & Schools in Iowa
The body of knowledge required to effectively perform legal support services increasingly comes from formal education in paralegal studies. As attorneys, corporations, and government agencies work within an ever more complex legal framework, the level of responsibility they expect paralegals to handle has grown significantly. Law offices and other employers throughout Iowa have come to rely on paralegals with the kind of expertise that can only come from earning a certificate or degree in paralegal studies.
Education Options
Aspiring paralegals in Iowa have several educational pathways, each designed to prepare students for different career goals and circumstances:
- Certificate Programs – Two types exist: stand-alone certificates that don’t require a prior bachelor’s degree, and post-baccalaureate certificates for those who already hold a college degree in another subject. Certificate programs focus exclusively on paralegal studies without general education courses. Graduates are called certificated paralegals.
- Associate Degrees (AAS) – Two-year programs that combine paralegal coursework with general education. These provide a solid foundation and are widely recognized by employers.
- Bachelor’s Degrees (BA/BS) – Four-year programs offering the most comprehensive education and typically the best career advancement opportunities.
- Master’s Degrees – Advanced programs for career paralegals seeking leadership roles or specialized expertise.
Some programs carry American Bar Association approval, which future employers and national certification examining bodies may prefer. When researching programs, consider ABA approval status, accreditation, and whether the program helps you qualify for national certification exams.
Not everyone hopes to be accepted to a major university. Many people become anxious thinking about becoming another nameless student in an ever-expanding sea of classmates. This rings especially true for aspiring paralegals who understand that more personalized instruction could equate to a richer educational experience.
All of the paralegal programs we recommend are offered either on campus or online. This means without ever leaving home or going out of state, paralegal students attending these programs are fully prepared to either promptly enter the workforce or smoothly transition to a better job. These schools also offer programs that help students and professionals who already hold a college degree keep climbing the higher education ladder by earning a post-degree certificate.
Iowa Paralegal Programs
| School | Location | Programs Offered | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines Area Community College | Des Moines | AAS-Paralegal, Paralegal Certificate (post-associate, post-baccalaureate) | Campus |
| Grand View University | Des Moines | BA in Paralegal Studies | Campus |
| Iowa Lakes Community College | Estherville | AAS in Paralegal/Legal Studies | Campus |
| Kirkwood Community College | Cedar Rapids | AAS in Paralegal Studies | Campus |
| Marshalltown Community College | Marshalltown | Paralegal Diploma | Online |
| North Iowa Area Community College | Mason City | AAS Legal Office Specialist, Legal Office Associate Diploma | Campus |
| Western Iowa Tech Community College | Sioux City | AAS in Paralegal/Legal Assistant Studies, Legal Secretary Diploma, Paralegal/Legal Assistant Advanced Diploma | Campus |
Certification Options
While Iowa doesn’t require certification, paralegals who meet educational and work experience qualifications can voluntarily choose to become certified paralegals. This demonstrates professional competence and commitment to the field. Certification can enhance your resume, potentially lead to higher salaries, and show clients and employers that you’ve met rigorous national standards. Learn more about becoming a paralegal and the various paths to entering this rewarding profession.
National Certification Exams
Paralegals in Iowa can choose from four national certification exams. The Iowa Paralegal Association, as an NALA affiliate, prefers the CLA/CP exam, but all four certifications are recognized and valued by employers:
- CLA/CP (Certified Legal Assistant/Certified Paralegal) – Offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA). This is the preferred certification in Iowa due to IPA’s NALA affiliation.
- PACE (Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam) – Offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA). This advanced exam is for experienced paralegals.
- PCCE (Paralegal Core Competency Exam) – Also offered by the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA). This is an entry-level certification option.
- PP (Professional Paralegal) – Offered by the Association for Legal Professionals (NALS). This certification focuses on core paralegal competencies.
Each certification has different eligibility requirements based on education and work experience. Research each exam to determine which best fits your background and career goals.
Iowa Paralegal Salary Guide
Iowa’s diverse economy creates solid earning potential for paralegals across the state. As of May 2024, paralegals in Iowa earned competitive salaries that reflect both the state’s reasonable cost of living and the professional value paralegals bring to legal practices.
Statewide Salary Overview
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Iowa employed 2,530 paralegals as of May 2024. The mean annual salary was $56,060, or $26.95 per hour. The median salary (the middle point where half earn more and half earn less) was $53,280 annually. However, those with extensive experience, including leadership experience and specialized expertise, enjoy salaries that surge well past the state average. The top 10% of Iowa paralegals earn $78,640 or more annually ($37.81 per hour).
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th (Entry-Level) | $37,480 | $18.02 |
| 25th | $45,180 | $21.72 |
| 50th (Median) | $53,280 | $25.62 |
| 75th | $64,440 | $30.98 |
| 90th (Top 10%) | $78,640 | $37.81 |
Salary by City
Paralegal salaries vary across Iowa’s metropolitan areas based on local legal markets, cost of living, and industry presence. The Des Moines metro area leads the state in paralegal compensation, which makes sense given the major corporations headquartered there, including Principal Financial, the state’s largest company and a Fortune 500 corporation.
Iowa City’s Area Development Group has received national recognition for its innovative approach to encouraging businesses to locate in the area. This has resulted in a diverse array of companies establishing operations in the region, providing opportunities for paralegals with expertise in biotech, finance, engineering, and advanced manufacturing.
| City | Employment | Mean Annual | Median Annual | Top 10% Annual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Des Moines | 1,050 | $60,640 | $60,790 | $84,100 |
| Cedar Rapids | 290 | $58,880 | $61,740 | $77,770 |
| Dubuque | 60 | $55,750 | $56,370 | $73,290 |
| Davenport | 260 | $54,780 | $49,340 | $76,680 |
| Iowa City | 110 | $54,770 | $52,000 | $72,270 |
| Sioux City | 80 | $54,630 | $51,910 | $73,790 |
| Ames | 40 | $54,080 | $50,520 | $65,620 |
| Waterloo | 130 | $51,750 | $49,770 | $63,780 |
Factors Influencing Salary
Several factors impact paralegal earnings in Iowa beyond geographic location. Specialization plays a significant role, with paralegals focusing on corporate law, intellectual property, or complex litigation often commanding higher salaries than those in general practice. Experience level matters considerably, with paralegals who develop expertise in specific practice areas and demonstrate leadership abilities advancing to higher compensation brackets.
The type and size of employer also affect earnings. Large corporate legal departments and major law firms typically offer higher salaries and more comprehensive benefits than smaller practices. However, smaller firms may offer broader experience and more diverse responsibilities that can accelerate career development.
Job Outlook & Career Growth
The career outlook for Iowa paralegals remains promising through 2032. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics projections, paralegal employment in Iowa will grow from 2,210 positions in 2022 to 2,380 positions by 2032. This represents a net increase of 170 jobs, or 7.7% growth, which outpaces many other occupations.
Iowa can expect approximately 250 annual job openings for paralegals through 2032. These openings result from both employment growth and the need to replace workers who transfer to other occupations or leave the workforce. This steady stream of opportunities provides multiple entry points for new paralegals entering the field.
The growth in paralegal positions correlates with the expansion of Iowa’s legal profession. According to the American Bar Association, 7,190 lawyers called Iowa home as of 2024. This represents a 3.5% increase in the lawyer population between 2011 and 2021. As the number of attorneys grows, so does the demand for qualified paralegals who can help manage increasing caseloads and complex legal matters.
Career advancement opportunities for Iowa paralegals include moving into senior paralegal roles, becoming paralegal managers or coordinators, specializing in high-demand practice areas, or transitioning into related fields like legal technology, compliance, or contract management. Some paralegals eventually pursue law degrees, leveraging their paralegal experience as a foundation for legal education. Exploring paralegal specializations can help you identify the career path that best matches your interests and strengths.
Professional Associations & Resources
Iowa Paralegal Association (IPA)
The Iowa Paralegal Association (IPA), an affiliate of the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA), represents paralegals and legal assistants from throughout the state. Originally known as IALA (Iowa Association of Legal Assistants), IPA was founded with the goal of providing educational opportunities for its membership, and it continues that mission today.
Membership is divided by district, with each region corresponding to one of Iowa’s eight judicial districts. This structure allows paralegals to connect with colleagues in their geographic area while benefiting from statewide resources and support.
IPA offers twice-yearly seminars, student mentoring programs, and support for members preparing to take the NALA CLA/CP exam. The organization also collaborates with the Iowa State Bar Association to address regulation and other legal matters of interest to paralegals and the larger legal community. IPA works to keep its membership informed of relevant developments regarding laws and legislation both in Iowa and nationally.
The IPA offers four levels of membership:
- Active – Open to paralegals employed at least 75 percent of full-time in a paralegal capacity.
- Associate – Open to anyone who has completed a paralegal educational program, anyone who holds the Certified Paralegal (CP)/Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) credential issued by NALA, or anyone who was formerly an Active Member.
- Student – Open to anyone who is a paralegal student in good standing and not employed as a paralegal.
- Sustaining – Open to members of the bar association, the legal profession, any individuals, and any entity that endorses the paralegal concept.
Major Law Firms
The majority of Iowa’s paralegals work for law firms, usually in larger cities like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Sioux City, and Iowa City. These firms span diverse practice areas and sizes. Law firms that employ paralegals in Iowa include:
- Nyemaster Goode
- Duncan, Green, Brown & Langeness PC
- Jani Law Group
- Pearson Bollman Law
- Johnson Law Firm
- Wertz & Dake
- Beyer Law Firm
- Bush, Motto, Creen, Koury & Halligan
- Scheldrup Blades
- First Administrators, Inc.
Important Contacts
- Iowa Paralegal Association – Professional association for Iowa paralegals
- Iowa State Bar Association – State bar organization
- Iowa Secretary of State – State government information
- Iowa Judicial Branch – State court system
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need certification to work as a paralegal in Iowa?
No, Iowa doesn’t require certification or licensing to work as a paralegal. However, the Iowa Supreme Court stated in 2003 that it’s desirable for paralegals to obtain voluntary national certification through NALA. Many employers prefer or require certification, and it can enhance your career prospects and earning potential.
What paralegal programs are available in Iowa?
Iowa has seven institutions offering paralegal programs, including Des Moines Area Community College, Grand View University, Iowa Lakes Community College, Kirkwood Community College, Marshalltown Community College, North Iowa Area Community College, and Western Iowa Tech Community College. Programs range from certificates to bachelor’s degrees, with both campus and online options available.
How much do paralegals make in Iowa?
As of May 2024, Iowa paralegals earned a median salary of $53,280 annually, with mean earnings of $56,060. Entry-level paralegals (10th percentile) earn around $37,480, while experienced professionals in the top 10% earn $78,640 or more. Des Moines offers the highest average salary at $60,640 annually.
What’s the job outlook for paralegals in Iowa?
The job outlook is positive. Iowa’s paralegal profession is projected to grow 7.7% from 2022 to 2032, adding 170 new positions. The state expects approximately 250 annual job openings for paralegals through 2032 from both growth and replacement needs. With 7,190 lawyers practicing in Iowa and steady growth in the legal profession, demand for qualified paralegals should remain strong.
What does the Iowa Paralegal Association offer?
The Iowa Paralegal Association (IPA), a NALA affiliate, offers twice-yearly seminars, student mentoring, support for NALA CLA/CP exam preparation, and collaboration with the Iowa State Bar Association. IPA provides four membership types (Active, Associate, Student, and Sustaining) and organizes membership by Iowa’s eight judicial districts to connect paralegals regionally.
Can I become a paralegal with just a certificate?
Yes, you can become a paralegal with a certificate. Iowa offers both stand-alone certificates (no prior degree required) and post-baccalaureate certificates (for those with a bachelor’s degree in another field). However, many employers prefer candidates with associate or bachelor’s degrees, as these provide more comprehensive education and may offer better advancement opportunities.
Which national certification is preferred in Iowa?
The CLA/CP (Certified Legal Assistant/Certified Paralegal) offered by NALA is the preferred certification in Iowa because the Iowa Paralegal Association is an NALA affiliate. However, other certifications like PACE and PCCE from NFPA, or the PP from NALS, are also recognized and valued by Iowa employers.
What cities in Iowa pay paralegals the most?
Des Moines leads Iowa with a mean paralegal salary of $60,640, followed by Cedar Rapids at $58,880. Other major cities like Dubuque ($55,750), Davenport ($54,780), and Iowa City ($54,770) also offer competitive salaries. Des Moines’ higher salaries reflect its concentration of Fortune 500 companies and major financial services firms.
Do I need a law degree to become a paralegal?
No, you don’t need a law degree to become a paralegal. In fact, paralegals cannot be licensed attorneys in most jurisdictions because their role is specifically to assist lawyers, not practice law independently. Most paralegals enter the field through certificate programs, associate degrees, or bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies.
What specializations are available for Iowa paralegals?
Iowa paralegals can specialize in numerous areas, including corporate law, litigation, family law, real estate, immigration, bankruptcy, intellectual property, environmental law, and estate planning. Iowa’s diverse economy, with strength in financial services, agriculture, manufacturing, and biotechnology, creates opportunities for paralegals to develop expertise in specialized practice areas that match industry needs.
Key Takeaways
- Iowa doesn’t require paralegal certification, but the state Supreme Court recommends voluntary NALA certification, and the Iowa Paralegal Association actively supports this standard.
- Seven Iowa institutions offer paralegal education from certificates through bachelor’s degrees, with both campus and online options available throughout the state.
- Iowa paralegals earned a median salary of $53,280 in 2024, with top earners making $78,640 or more. Des Moines leads the state with average salaries of $60,640.
- The profession will grow 7.7% through 2032, adding 170 positions, with approximately 250 annual job openings from both growth and replacement needs.
- Iowa’s diverse economy creates opportunities for paralegals in corporate law, litigation, family law, real estate, immigration, and specialized areas like financial services and biotechnology.
- The Iowa Paralegal Association offers professional development, exam preparation support, mentoring, and connections to colleagues across the state’s eight judicial districts.
Ready to Start Your Paralegal Career in Iowa?
Explore accredited paralegal programs across Iowa and take the first step toward a rewarding legal career in the Heartland.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job market figures for Paralegals and Legal Assistants reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed December 2025.
