Paralegal Studies Bachelors Degree Online
Is a Paralegal Studies Degree for You?
Those who want a career participating in the legal process without a law degree choose to pursue degrees in paralegal studies. Students in the program learn to collect and analyze facts pertaining to legal issues, which will enable them to work in law firms, government agencies and corporations. Once they attain a paralegal position, they will be capable of preparing legal proceedings by researching, drafting documents and preparing presentations at trials. They will be able to conduct investigations, interview clients and oversee the function of their offices. The lawyers for whom they work will determine the scope of their duties. In many cases, they will be required to accomplish as much as legally possible, making their job more important and fulfilling. The work they perform behind the scenes is essential to their legal operation.
Advice for Earning Your Paralegal Studies Degree Online
Online paralegal studies courses are comprehensive, effectively equipping students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in the occupation. The most respected schools and programs, of course, are accredited. Accreditation is a measure that ensures colleges are performing to the satisfactory educational standards established by the accrediting agencies. By perusing the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Postsecondary Accredited Institutions, you can verify the status of your prospective colleges. You can also find out if your prospective paralegal program is accredited by visiting the American Bar Association (ABA) website. Given the competition for paralegal jobs and the overall importance of their duties, it's important that you have a degree that is respected by employers.
Required Courses
Paralegal studies students learn a lot about law in a short period of time, which is exciting for those who are passionate about the subject. Degree programs consist of courses such as legal systems and paralegal; legal research and writing; family law; computers and law; torts for paralegals; litigation; criminal litigation; wills, estates and trusts; consumer law; real estate law; professional ethics; and topics in paralegal studies. Additionally, students must gain basic math and writing skills, the latter of which is essential for the legal field. English classes along with other social science and humanities classes are typically required.
Common Career Paths
A majority of paralegals are employed by law firms, corporate legal office and various government agencies. Where they work may be determined by their interests; they find jobs in personal injury, litigation, criminal law, corporate law, labor law, family law, bankruptcy, immigration, real estate and intellectual property. The simplicity or complexity of their duties depends on which field they choose and the size and responsibilities of their employers. Although the field is expected to grow much faster than average in the coming years according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, competition will be keen because of the high number of paralegal degree holders. As a result, some will have to start their careers as project assistants before landing paralegal jobs.
Starting Salary: $28,885 to $38,459
Mid-Career Salary: $40,980 to $60,028
Learn More About a Career in Paralegal Studies
