Inside Top Paralegal Programs: Insights from Leading Educators
We interviewed paralegal program directors and instructors at top institutions across the country to understand what makes exceptional paralegal education. Key insights include the importance of practical skills training, experienced faculty from the legal field, strong employer partnerships, flexible formats for working adults, and hands-on learning that goes beyond textbook theory.
Choosing the right paralegal program can feel overwhelming. With hundreds of schools offering paralegal certificates and degrees, how do you know which program will actually prepare you for a successful career?
We went straight to the source. We interviewed program directors, instructors, and faculty at leading paralegal programs across the United States to get their perspectives on what makes quality paralegal education. These educators train the next generation of paralegals and maintain close connections with legal employers who hire their graduates.
This page synthesizes insights from interviews with faculty at the University of New Mexico Continuing Education, Front Range Community College, Tulane School of Professional Advancement, Clovis Community College, and Lansing Community College. Their combined experience represents decades of paralegal education and thousands of successful graduates now working in the legal field.
These schools were selected because we recognized their programs for exceptional quality and value in our annual rankings:
- Top Entry-Level, Pre-Degree Paralegal Certificate Programs in the U.S.
- Best in State: Top Associate’s Degrees in Paralegal Studies by State
- Best in State: Top Bachelor’s Programs in Paralegal Studies by State
- Top Post-Degree Certificate Programs for Paralegals (Post-Associate and Post-Bac)
By interviewing faculty from these top-ranked programs, we can provide insights from institutions that have demonstrated excellence in paralegal education.
What Makes a Strong Paralegal Program
According to the educators we interviewed, several factors distinguish exceptional paralegal programs from mediocre ones.
ABA Approval Matters: While not always required, American Bar Association (ABA) approval signals that a program meets rigorous quality standards—Tulane School of Professional Advancement’s ABA-approved program benefits from this quality seal. As Director Robyn Ice explained, their program’s “long and successful history” has created an “excellent pool of participating law firms” for student internships. ABA-approved programs undergo regular reviews to ensure curriculum quality, qualified faculty, adequate resources, and proper student support services.
Experienced Faculty Who Work in the Legal Field: The best programs employ instructors who’ve worked as paralegals or in legal settings. Tracy Nothnagel from Lansing Community College emphasized this priority: “Instructors in our program are all working in the legal field. Our instructors must have experience working with or as a paralegal. This ensures that our students are getting real-world experience.” At Tulane, Robyn Ice noted that “Our adjunct faculty is composed of practicing attorneys and paralegals, each an expert in his or her field of instruction.” Laura Talbert at Clovis Community College brings this perspective firsthand: “As a practicing attorney, I am well aware of what a good paralegal is capable of.”
Curriculum That Adapts to Market Demands: Legal technology and practice areas evolve constantly. Tracy Nothnagel from Lansing Community College explained their approach: “Your program has to be ready and willing to change as the demands on paralegals change. We are continually surveying the legal community and changing our program accordingly.” Amy Thompson at UNM Continuing Education highlighted three primary curriculum focuses: understanding the differences between paralegals and legal assistants, developing comprehensive paralegal skills and responsibilities, and hands-on software training. She noted that “Hands-on experiences are significant for students to be more familiar with the software use.”
Practical Application Over Theory: Theory matters, but issues of practice matter more. Priscilla Murray from Clovis Community College captured this philosophy: “As professors, we want our students to graduate and know how to apply the material. We wish to provide employers with a knowledgeable paralegal who can easily satisfy administrative functions in addition to more focused legal duties. As such, many courses will include hands-on assignments and not just textbook regurgitation.” Rick Rowley, also at Clovis, added: “We care about providing our students with an education that gives them knowledge that they can apply in efficient ways.”
Real-World Skills vs. Academic Knowledge
One theme emerged consistently across all our interviews: the balance between academic knowledge and practical skills determines graduate success.
What Modern Paralegals Need to Know: Amy Thompson at UNM Continuing Education explained the evolution: “Unlike before, where paralegals were merely assistants that worked more closely on a case than a receptionist, modern-day paralegals have to know nearly everything an attorney knows on a case to do their job successfully.” Laura Talbert at Clovis Community College echoed this: “It requires more knowledge in drafting legal documents and, without crossing the line of practicing law, the skillset to be an attorney’s right hand.”
Skills Employers Actually Want:
- Legal research using Westlaw, LexisNexis, and other databases
- Document drafting (pleadings, discovery, correspondence)
- Case management software proficiency
- Client communication and professionalism
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Time management and organization
- Understanding unauthorized practice of law (UPL) boundaries
Gerald Rogers at Front Range Community College noted that time management and UPL issues are critical focuses in their curriculum, ensuring graduates understand both what they can do and what boundaries they must respect.
Technology Skills Are Essential: Robyn Ice at Tulane emphasized that their “curriculum is focusing to an even greater extent upon providing our students with the knowledge of substantive law, technology skills, and, of course, the confidence that they need to succeed in law offices today.” The programs we interviewed recognize that modern paralegals must be proficient with legal software, research databases, and case management systems.
Bridging the Academic-Practice Gap Through Internships: Several programs have developed innovative approaches to give students real-world experience. Tulane requires “a 100-hour internship in a law office” for each student, with Robyn Ice noting that “We have many students who find paralegal employment even before they graduate.” UNM Continuing Education also offers internships, with Amy Thompson explaining that “Every paralegal student has a chance to take this opportunity to apply what they learn.” Front Range Community College provides internship opportunities and helps students find placements when needed.
The consensus? Academic coursework provides the foundation, but practical application cements the learning. Programs that emphasize both produce the most job-ready graduates.
Career Preparation and Job Placement
Getting a paralegal education is only step one. Getting hired is the ultimate goal. The programs we interviewed take career preparation seriously.
Employer Partnerships That Lead to Jobs: Strong programs maintain relationships with law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and other employers who regularly hire their graduates. Tulane’s Robyn Ice highlighted their success: “Due to the long and successful history of our ABA-approved program, we have an excellent pool of participating law firms to which we can assign student interns.” At Clovis Community College, Priscilla Murray noted that “local firms will see CCC assistance in filling paralegal/legal assistant vacancies.”
Early Employment Success: The proof is in the outcomes. Robyn Ice at Tulane reported: “We have many students who find paralegal employment even before they graduate, and they have the option of waiving the internship class and replacing it with an elective.” This demonstrates the value of strong employer connections and quality training.
Faculty Support for Job Search: Beyond classroom instruction, faculty members actively help students transition to employment. Rick Rowley at Clovis Community College stated, “I am always willing to help students find jobs in my area.” Priscilla Murray added: “We do go above our call and provide references, feedback, and recommendations for our excelling students.” At Lansing Community College, Tracy Nothnagel confirmed that “Faculty are available and do assist with finding suitable internships for students.”
Professional Development Focus: Tulane’s internship course includes “a classroom component, with instruction focused upon professionalism and job search skills,” ensuring students know not just how to be paralegals but how to present themselves professionally and navigate the job market successfully.
Choosing the Right Program for You
Based on insights from our interviews, here’s what prospective students should consider when evaluating programs:
Consider Your Schedule and Learning Style:
- Full-time students: Associate degree programs (typically 2 years) offer a comprehensive education with broader legal knowledge
- Working professionals: Post-degree certificate programs provide faster entry for those with bachelor’s degrees
- Evening students: Front Range Community College offers “classes in the evening so both working and non-working can attend”.
- Online learners: Multiple programs offer online or hybrid options to accommodate busy schedules
- Hybrid learners: UNM Continuing Education’s hybrid format lets “Students spend half time in the classroom and half time online.”
Program Format Options: The programs we interviewed offer various delivery methods. Amy Thompson at UNM explained: “Students found the hybrid format helps their busy work-life schedule” in their 8-week intensive program. Gerald Rogers at Front Range Community College noted they “also offer online courses” alongside evening classes. Rick Rowley at Clovis Community College emphasized: “I believe they get a great online education at Clovis Community College.”
Class Size Matters: Smaller programs can offer more personalized attention. UNM Continuing Education maintains small cohorts of “an average of 10 students every term,” while Laura Talbert at Clovis Community College highlighted: “I love how personal our paralegal program is. While I teach online courses, I still encourage students to reach out to me with any questions or concerns that they have.” Front Range Community College promotes “reasonable” class sizes for quality instruction.
Student Demographics Vary: Different programs attract different student populations. Tulane’s Robyn Ice noted their post-baccalaureate certificate is “especially popular among those who are seeking to retool.” Tracy Nothnagel at Lansing Community College observed a shift: “We seem to have more students who are preparing for their first career. Although we still have many career changers, they don’t seem to be the majority at this time.” Understanding a program’s typical student profile can help you find the right fit.
Questions to Ask Programs:
- Is the program ABA-approved?
- Do instructors currently work in the legal field?
- What legal software will I learn?
- Are internships required, optional, or unavailable?
- What’s the typical class size?
- What schedule formats are available (day, evening, online, hybrid)?
- How does the program stay current with employer needs?
- What career support services are available?
Red Flags to Watch For:
- Instructors without a legal background
- No mention of legal software training
- Vague or missing placement statistics
- Outdated curriculum (check when last updated)
- No connections to local legal employers
- Accreditation or approval claims that can’t be verified
- Programs that haven’t adapted to changing paralegal responsibilities
Program Spotlights
Here are the programs we interviewed, representing different geographic regions, program types, and delivery formats:
University of New Mexico – Continuing Education
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico
Program Type: Post-degree paralegal certificate
Delivery: Hybrid (half classroom, half online)
Duration: 8 weeks intensive
Class Size: Average 10 students per term
UNM Continuing Education offers a unique intensive hybrid program designed for working professionals. According to instructor Amy Thompson, the program maintains consistent enrollment with small class sizes that allow for personalized attention. The curriculum focuses on three major areas: understanding the distinctions between paralegals and legal assistants, developing comprehensive paralegal skills and responsibilities, and gaining hands-on experience with software.
Thompson emphasized the evolution of the paralegal role: “Modern-day paralegals have to know nearly everything an attorney knows on a case to do their job successfully.” The program reflects this reality by requiring substantial legal knowledge alongside practical skills training. Students appreciate the hybrid format that balances classroom interaction with online flexibility, particularly helpful for those managing work and family responsibilities.
The program offers internship opportunities, ensuring every student can apply classroom learning in real legal settings. Thompson noted the industry trend toward higher educational requirements: “We are seeing a rise in the requirement for a Bachelor’s Degree instead of just the previously accepted Associate’s Degree,” which explains why their post-degree certificate attracts professionals looking to transition into law.
Best for: Career changers with bachelor’s degrees seeking fast entry into paralegal work
Learn more: Becoming a Paralegal in New Mexico
Front Range Community College
Location: Westminster, Colorado
Program Type: Entry-level certificate program
Delivery: Evening classes and online courses
Class Size: Reasonable (manageable for quality instruction)
Front Range Community College’s paralegal program stands out for its accessibility to working adults. Faculty member Gerald Rogers highlighted key strengths: “Our class sizes are reasonable. Our quality of instruction is excellent. Classes are in the evening, so both working and non-working people can attend. We also offer online courses.”
The program attracts significant numbers of students and offers opportunities with faculty support for placement. Rogers emphasized the program’s focus on practical concerns facing modern paralegals, including time management and understanding the boundaries of unauthorized practice of law. These aren’t just theoretical concepts but real challenges graduates will face in their daily work.
The evening and online formats make the program particularly accessible for students who need to maintain employment while studying. The community college setting offers affordable education without sacrificing quality, as evidenced by the program’s recognition as one of the best entry-level certificate programs nationally.
Best for: Working adults needing evening or online options, budget-conscious students
Learn more: Becoming a Paralegal in Colorado
Tulane University – School of Professional Advancement
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Program Type: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
ABA Status: ABA-approved
Delivery: Online and in-person options
Internship: Required 100-hour placement
Tulane’s General Legal Studies Program combines the prestige of a major university with the flexibility working adults need. Director Robyn Ice described their student body: “Most are working adults, who are balancing the demands of job, family, and school. I love the way our students support and encourage one another from the introductory classes through commencement.”
The program’s ABA approval provides significant advantages, including “an excellent pool of participating law firms” for the required 100-hour internship. Ice noted impressive outcomes: “We have many students who find paralegal employment even before they graduate.” These students can waive the internship requirement and take an elective instead, though the career-preparation component of the internship course—focused on professionalism and job search skills—remains valuable.
Faculty expertise distinguishes the program. Ice explained: “Our adjunct faculty is composed of practicing attorneys and paralegals, each an expert in their field of instruction. Whether they are teaching online or ‘live,’ each brings not only legal knowledge and expertise but also an understanding of the day-to-day realities of the legal profession.” This ensures students learn current practices rather than outdated theory.
The curriculum emphasizes three key areas: substantive law knowledge, technology skills, and confidence. Ice noted the program is “especially popular among those who are seeking to retool,” making it ideal for professionals transitioning from other careers.
Best for: Career changers with bachelor’s degrees wanting ABA-approved credentials and strong employer connections
Learn more: Becoming a Paralegal in Louisiana
Clovis Community College
Location: Clovis, New Mexico
Program Type: Associate degree and certificate options
Delivery: Online courses available
Faculty: Three dedicated instructors with varied backgrounds
Clovis Community College offers a personal, practical paralegal program with faculty who genuinely care about student success. The program features three dedicated instructors—Rick Rowley, Priscilla Murray, and Laura Talbert—each bringing unique perspectives to paralegal education.
Priscilla Murray articulated the program’s educational philosophy: “As professors, we want our students to graduate and know how to apply the material. We wish to provide employers with knowledgeable paralegals who can easily satisfy administrative functions in addition to more focused legal duties. As such, many courses will include hands-on assignments and not just textbook regurgitation.” This practical focus ensures graduates can perform real paralegal work, not just pass exams.
Laura Talbert, a practicing attorney who teaches in the program, brings invaluable real-world perspective: “As a practicing attorney, I am well aware of what a good paralegal is capable of, and I know our program is providing the type of education that results in great paralegals.” She emphasized the personal nature of instruction: “I love how personal our paralegal program is. While I teach online courses, I still encourage students to reach out to me with any questions or concerns that they have.”
Rick Rowley summed up the program’s strengths: “I believe they get a great online education at Clovis Community College. We care about providing our students with an education that gives them knowledge that they can apply in efficient ways.” While internships aren’t formally required, faculty actively help students find employment opportunities, and local firms regularly seek CCC graduates.
The program serves rural northeastern New Mexico, providing quality legal education to students who might not have access to large urban programs. Murray noted the growing demand: “The Paralegal field has really grown in the last decade. Firms are seeing the great benefit of processing more cases by employing a competent and knowledgeable paralegal.”
Best for: Students wanting personal attention, online learners, and those in rural areas
Learn more: Becoming a Paralegal in New Mexico
Lansing Community College
Location: Lansing, Michigan
Program Type: Associate degree in paralegal studies
Unique Feature: Located in the state capital with access to government legal employers
Faculty: All instructors work in the legal field
Lansing Community College’s paralegal program stands out for its commitment to keeping the curriculum aligned with employer needs and ensuring all instructors work actively in the legal profession. Faculty member Tracy Nothnagel explained their adaptive approach: “Your program has to be ready and willing to change as the demands on paralegals change. We are continually surveying the legal community and changing our program accordingly.”
This responsiveness to employer feedback ensures graduates have current, relevant skills. Nothnagel emphasized a crucial program requirement: “Instructors in our program are all working in the legal field. Our instructors must have experience working with or as a paralegal. This ensures that our students are getting real-world experience.” Students learn from practitioners who understand today’s legal work environment, not just academic theory.
The program has noticed shifting demographics. Nothnagel observed: “Traditionally, a large majority of students were career changers, but I am noticing a trend in the other direction. We seem to have more students who are preparing for their first career. Although we still have many career changers, they don’t seem to be the majority at this time.” This suggests the program successfully attracts both traditional students and working professionals.
While internships are optional (offered as an elective rather than a requirement), faculty actively support students seeking practical experience. The location in Michigan’s capital provides unique advantages—proximity to state government offices, courts, and agencies that employ paralegals in public sector roles.
Best for: Students interested in government legal work, those wanting instructor practitioners, traditional students, and career changers
Learn more: Becoming a Paralegal in Michigan
Frequently Asked Questions
What do paralegal instructors look for in successful students?
Based on our interviews, instructors consistently emphasized these traits: the ability to apply knowledge in practice(not just memorize), willingness to do hands-on work beyond textbook learning, time management skills, understanding of professional boundaries (UPL issues), and genuine engagement with the material. Laura Talbert at Clovis mentioned she encourages students to reach out with questions, suggesting that successful students are proactive communicators. The faculty we spoke with value students who want to truly master the skills needed for legal work, not just earn a credential.
How long does it take to become job-ready after completing a paralegal program?
Timeline varies by program type. UNM Continuing Education’s intensive hybrid program lasts just 8 weeks and quickly prepares post-degree students. Certificate programs typically take 9-18 months. Associate degree programs take about 2 years. However, Tulane’s Robyn Ice noted that “many students find paralegal employment even before they graduate,” suggesting quality programs prepare you throughout the coursework, not just at the end. Programs with required internships, like Tulane’s 100-hour placement, ensure you gain practical experience before graduation.
Is ABA approval essential
Not legally required in most jurisdictions, but it provides significant advantages. Robyn Ice at Tulane highlighted the benefits of their ABA-approved program: access to an “excellent pool of participating law firms” for internships and its “long and successful history” of building employer relationships. Some national certifications may require or prefer graduates of ABA-approved programs. However, non-ABA-approved programs, such as those at Clovis, Lansing, Front Range, and UNM, also produce successful graduates through strong curricula, experienced faculty, and employer connections. Focus on program quality indicators regardless of ABA status.
Should I choose a certificate or a degree program?
Depends on your situation and career goals. Post-degree certificates (like those at Tulane and UNM) work well if you already have a bachelor’s degree and want to transition quickly into paralegal work. Both programs noted that these are popular with career changers. Associate degree programs (Lansing, Clovis, Front Range) are ideal if you’re starting your higher education journey or want more comprehensive training. Amy Thompson at UNM noted a trend toward bachelor ‘s-degree requirements in the field, suggesting that those without degrees might benefit from associate programs. Priscilla Murray at Clovis pointed out their program provides “a solid foundation, should they wish to enhance later and pursue a graduate degree.”
How important are internships during paralegal programs?
Very important, according to our interviews. Tulane requires 100 hours and has seen “many students find paralegal employment even before they graduate” as a direct result. Amy Thompson at UNM stated, “Every paralegal student has a chance to take this opportunity to apply what they learn.” Even at schools where internships are optional, like Lansing Community College, Tracy Nothnagel confirmed, “Faculty are available and do assist with finding suitable internships.” The practical experience helps you apply classroom learning, build professional networks, and often leads directly to job offers. If a program doesn’t offer internships, that’s a potential red flag.
Can I work while completing a paralegal program?
Yes, and many programs are designed specifically for working adults. Front Range Community College offers “classes in the evening so both working and non-working can attend” plus online courses. UNM’s hybrid format “helps their busy work life schedule.” Tulane’s Robyn Ice notes, “Most are working adults who are balancing the demands of job, family, and school.” Clovis offers online education for flexibility. The key is finding a program format that fits your schedule—evening classes, online courses, hybrid formats, or weekend options. Gerald Rogers at Front Range mentioned time management is a focus in their curriculum, recognizing that students must juggle multiple responsibilities.
What makes a paralegal instructor qualified to teach?
According to our interviews, the best instructors work actively in the legal field. Tracy Nothnagel at Lansing stated explicitly: “Instructors in our program are all working in the legal field. Our instructors must have experience working with or as a paralegal.” At Tulane, “adjunct faculty is composed of practicing attorneys and paralegals, each an expert in his or her field.” Laura Talbert at Clovis is a practicing attorney who knows “what a good paralegal is capable of.” This real-world experience ensures instructors teach current practices rather than outdated theory. When evaluating programs, ask about faculty backgrounds—if instructors have been away from legal work for many years, that’s a concern.
Key Takeaways
- Faculty credentials matter most: The strongest programs employ instructors who currently work in the legal field, ensuring students learn current practices from practitioners, rather than just academic theory.
- Practical skills trump textbook learning: Programs emphasizing hands-on assignments, real document drafting, and software training produce more job-ready graduates than those relying solely on textbook study.
- Program formats serve different needs: evening classes (Front Range), hybrid intensive programs (UNM), online options (Clovis), and full-time formats. Choose based on your schedule and learning style.
- Internships accelerate employment: Programs with required or optional internships help students gain practical experience, build employer connections, and often secure jobs before graduation.
- Curriculum must stay current: The best programs continually survey legal employers and update curriculum to match evolving paralegal responsibilities, especially regarding technology and expanded duties.
- ABA approval offers advantages: While not required, ABA-approved programs, such as Tulane’s, offer benefits including established employer relationships and quality assurance through regular reviews.
- Modern paralegals need substantial knowledge: The role has evolved beyond administrative support—today’s paralegals “have to know nearly everything an attorney knows on a case” while respecting UPL boundaries.
- Small class sizes enable personal attention: Programs maintaining reasonable class sizes (10-25 students) allow instructors to provide individualized support and build meaningful student-faculty relationships.
- Strong programs adapt to market changes: Whether through employer surveys, faculty who practice law, or curriculum updates, responsive programs ensure graduates meet current employer needs.
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