By OPDC Staff
October 2020
According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for paralegals and legal assistants are expected to increase a whopping 10% before 2029. This makes 2021 the perfect time to pursue a paralegal degree, especially if you enjoy investigation, research, and have a strong desire to help others.
Of course, earning an entire degree is easier said than done. Becoming a paralegal or legal assistant requires specialized training. In many cases, employers expect individuals to have an associate’s (two-year degree) in paralegal studies. Fortunately, there are a number of colleges and universities throughout the United States which offer paralegal degrees that can be completed entirely online and at an affordable price. This makes earning that degree as simple as it sounds.
Methodology
For the purpose of finding the most affordable online paralegal degree programs, we examined 117 schools based on two- and four-year degree offerings in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies. We focused on only those schools which offer paralegal degrees via a completely online program. Finally, we ranked each school in ascending order of affordability, based on estimated program costs for out-of-state online students. The 50 most affordable online degree programs are detailed below.
Note: All tuition numbers were obtained via the college’s own website. Rankings are based on the estimated cost of the entire degree program for online out-of-state students, and do not include any additional fees. All numbers are accurate as of October 2020.
Herzing University
Online Associate of Science in Legal Studies
School Profile
Various
Estimated Program Cost: $35,175
Previous Ranking: #50
Herzing University offers various degree levels and programs in legal studies, including an online A.S. in Legal Studies. Like the university’s on-campus programs, its online paralegal degree programs are approved by the American Bar Association. Typical course topics include Contract Law, Family Law, Legal Writing, and Torts. NALA Certification Review is the final course taken to complete the program. U.S. News and World Report ranks Herzing University as having the 90th Best Online Bachelor’s Program in the United States. The school is also ranked among the Tier 2 Best Regional Colleges in the Midwest. Herzing makes our top 50 cut for affordable online paralegal degrees. A Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies are also offered.
Purdue University Global
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
West Lafayette, Indiana
Estimated Program Cost: $33,390
Previous Ranking: #44
Purdue University Global is known for being among the largest providers of online legal studies programs. The institution’s School of Social and Behavioral Sciences offers undergraduate programs that are among the most affordable online paralegal degree programs of their kind. Students pursuing an associate’s degree in paralegal studies explore comprehensive studies in civil litigation, contracts, and criminal law. A Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies is also offered through Purdue’s Global program.
Rasmussen College
Online Paralegal Associate’s Degree
School Profile
Romeoville, Illinois
Estimated Program Cost: $28,320
Previous Ranking: #45
Those earning an online paralegal associate’s degree from Rasmussen College enjoy faculty-led, self-paced classes that are designed to fit the lifestyle of busy students. The affordable online paralegal degree program provides curriculum aligned with nationally recognized organizations, such as the National Association of Legal Assistants. Students learn to carry out extensive legal research and utilize LexisNexis with ease, a highly coveted research tool. Not only does Rasmussen offer affordable paralegal online degrees, but the school is nationally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Affordability and quality set this school apart from its competitors.
University of Northwestern Ohio
Online Associate of Applied Business in Legal Assisting
School Profile
Lima, Ohio
Estimated Program Cost: $24,840
Previous Ranking: #43
The online Associate of Applied Business in Legal Assisting program at University of Northwestern presents a wide variety of materials to students who are looking for long-term careers in the legal field. Required legal subjects covered include Family Law, Litigation, Probate Law, and Real Estate Law. Licensed attorneys teach most classes. Students have access to field trips to the Court of Appeals law library to gain further knowledge outside of the classroom. Exposure to criminal court proceedings is also available. Upon graduation, many students are placed directly with local area legal organizations. Online paralegal degree programs can be expensive, but University of Northwestern Ohio offers an affordable degree option.
Eastern Kentucky University
Online Associate’s in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Richmond, Kentucky
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #41
Eastern Kentucky University offers affordable in-state tuition and a wide variety of popular programs, including paralegal studies. The College of Arts and Sciences offers two degree programs in Paralegal Science and Paralegal Studies – the Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies and the Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Science. Students may also minor in Paralegal Studies. The program is approved by the American Bar Association and offers an excellent track record. More than 90% of EKU’s graduates gain employment or enter graduate school within six months of graduation. U.S. News and World Report ranks Eastern Kentucky as the 62nd Best Regional University in the South. A B.S. in Paralegal Studies is also offered.
SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Online Bachelor’s of Technology, Legal Studies
School Profile
Canton, New York
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #39
The Legal Studies degree from SUNY College of Technology at Canton focuses on building a strong foundation in legal studies and bringing real world experiences to the classroom. The unique degree design at SUNY includes an internship option while attending classes. Students gain real-world experience and exposure that helps them connect what they have learned in class to the workplace. Courses are designed to combine business aspects with the practice of law. Typical course topics include Business Law, Civil Litigation, Legal Research, Legal Writing, and Negligence and Intentional Torts. SUNY is recognized by U.S. News and World Report as among the Best Regional Colleges in the North.
Westmoreland County Community College
Online Paralegal Associate’s Degree
School Profile
Youngwood, Pennsylvania
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #38
Westmoreland County Community College is a public school located in Youngwood, Pennsylvania. The school is one of the most affordable institutions of its kind in Pennsylvania and offers a low student-faculty ratio of 17-to-1. Students may earn two-year degrees in a variety of fields, including Paralegal Studies. The Paralegal Associate’s degree program provides students with the skills and experience needed to perform legal services under the supervision of a licensed attorney. Typical courses required of the program include Domestic Relations, Estates and Trusts, Legal Analysis, Property Law, and The Legal Assistant. Electives may be tailored to fit the career goals and interests of the student and include topics such as Business Law, Criminal Procedures, and Labor Relations.
American Public University System
Online Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Charles Town, West Virginia
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #37
American Public University is a member of the accredited American Public University System. The school offers various programs in legal studies that are both enriching and affordable. The Associate’s in Paralegal Studies is available online, and designed to prepare students for entry-level paraprofessional positions in the legal field. Students are taught basic principles that apply to business, administration, and communication in the legal field. Ethics and responsibilities of the legal professional are touch on in every class. Graduates of the program are able to apply contemporary legal research methods and techniques to specific and general areas of law. The school offers internship options and continued education information through their career services department. A B.S. in Legal Studies is also offered.
Southern Utah University
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Cedar City, Utah
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #35
Southern Utah University in Cedar City, Utah, offers a comprehensive two-year Associate degree in Paralegal Studies. The program offers online classes designed with flexibility and convenience for distance learning students. While the classes are designed to prepare students with the foundational knowledge required for entry-level employment as a paralegal, they also offer specific topics that pre-law students find necessary for entering law school. On-site advisors are available for students who wish to pursue the law school path. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southern Utah University as the 58th Best Regional University in the West and the 16th Best Top Public School in the country.
Florida Gulf Coast University
Online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
School Profile
Fort Myers, Florida
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #34
Florida Gulf Coast University offers a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Legal Studies that is designed to prepare graduates for law school or entry into the legal field as paralegals and legal assistants. The core curriculum focuses on areas of contract law, professional ethics, and criminal procedure. Students may tailor their electives to focus on areas of interest. All students are required to explore legal research topics and learn to effectively communicate using legal terminology and jargon. The program prepares students for law school as well as various certification examinations, such as the Certified Legal Assistant exam. U.S. News and World Report ranks Florida Gulf Coast University as the 87th Best Regional University in the South.
Georgia Military College
Online Associate’s in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Milledgeville, Georgia
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #33
Georgia Military College is a public school located in the town of Milledgeville, Georgia. With a small enrollment size and intimate learning environment, the campus attracts students looking for value and quality education. Georgia Military College offers a Paralegal Studies program that prepares students to succeed in entry-level positions serving the legal community. Courses focus on building effective communication skills, conducting research, and writing for the legal field. Typical course topics include American Government, Criminal Investigations, Criminal Procedure, and Legal Research and Writing. The school is considered to be one of the most affordable of its kind in the state of Georgia.
Prince George’s Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science Paralegal/Legal Assistant
School Profile
Largo, Maryland
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #32
The online paralegal associate’s degree from Prince George’s Community College focuses on preparing students to work as paralegals and legal assistants in various area of law. The program emphasizes a hands-on approach to learning through interactive activities, research, dispute resolution assignments, and witness interviewing. Typical courses include Contracts, Criminal Evidence and Procedure, Criminal Law, and Techniques of Legal Research. The school offers intimate classroom sizes with a student-to-faculty ratio of 15-to-1. The institution has a strong commitment to affordability, with 40 percent of undergraduates receiving some form of grant or scholarship aid.
San Antonio College
Online Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
San Antonio, Texas
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #31
San Antonio College, a member of Alamo Colleges, offers a Paralegal Studies program as part of the Administrative Computer Technology Department. The unique design of the program allows paralegals to train directly with an attorney while taking classes to satisfy requirements. Students learn legal computer technology, how to conduct fact-finding inquiries, and prepare trial briefs, motions, and writs. Students may attend the program on a full-time or part-time basis with many of the classes offered online and in the evening. The school’s already affordable tuition is made even more budget-friendly when a student lives in-district. The in-district cost is approximately 50% less than the in-state tuition and fees.
Tompkins Cortland Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science
School Profile
Dryden, New York
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #30
Online paralegal degree programs at Tompkins Cortland Community College combine academic exposure to legal courses with research and writing techniques unique to the field. Students delve into topics pertinent to work as a legal professional, including civil litigation, legal ethics, and real estate law. The associate’s degree program at Tompkins is affordable and can be completed in two or three semesters if the student has prior credits or holds a prior degree. The program may be completed entirely online in an asynchronous manner. According to U.S. News and World Report, about 80 percent of undergraduates receive grant and scholarship aid at Tompkins.
Alexandria Technical & Community College
Online Associate’s in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Alexandria, Minnesota
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #29
The affordable paralegal program at Alexandria Technical & Community College prepares students to work under the direct supervision of an attorney in various areas of law. In and out of classroom work is required. Course topics include Legal Procedures, Substantive Law, and Trial Preparation. Students learn how to handle legal correspondence and prepare legal documents for court proceedings. According to U.S. News and World Report, over half of all undergraduates attending Alexandria Technical & Community College receive grant and scholarship aid. In fact, the amount of aid awarded annually is approximately $3,947, making the online paralegal degree even more affordable.
Minnesota State Community and Technical College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Fergus Falls, Minnesota
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #28
At Minnesota State Community and Technical College, associate degrees are offered in a variety of disciplines. One of the most popular and affordable programs at M State is the online Paralegal program. Students who satisfy a 60-credit AAS degree requirement graduate with skills in legal research, civil law, and legal ethics. Students learn to analyze legal problems commonly faced in the field. They also learn how to manage caseloads for licensed attorneys. What makes Minnesota State Community College unique is the low student-to-faculty ratio and affordability of tuition for both in-state and out-of-state students. In fact, the out-of-state tuition and fees are the same as in-state students.
Lake Superior College
Online Associate in Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Duluth, Minnesota
Estimated Program Cost: $
Previous Ranking: #27
The highly affordable online paralegal degree program from Lake Superior College is designed for students intending to transfer to a four-year university following graduation. Courses are for students who plan to pursue law school, but are suitable for those interested in a non-lawyer path and legal profession. Program requirements include course topics such as Computers in the Law Office, Legal Ethics for the Paralegal, and Legal Studies Terminology and Procedures. A paralegal capstone is required, which may consist of the completion of a legal internship providing pro bono research and work with a legal firm or individual attorney. U.S. News and World Report indicates that 50 percent of undergraduates at Lake Superior College receive some form of grant or scholarship aid assistance.
Mount Wachusett Community College
Online Associate’s in Legal Studies
School Profile
Gardner, Massachusetts
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #26
Affordable online paralegal degrees may be earned from some of the top-rated community colleges in the country, including Mount Wachusett Community College. Courses and programs prepare students for career opportunities as paralegals and legal assistants, as well as law school. Students participating in the program gain real-world experience interviewing clients, gathering research materials, and preparing documents for court proceedings. Typical courses include Estate Planning, Legal Research and Writing, Litigation, and Psychology and the Law. U.S. News and World Report states that approximately 59 percent of undergraduates attending Mount Wachusett receive grant or scholarship aid, with the average award of $4,541.
Marshalltown Community College
Online Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Marshalltown, Iowa
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #25
There are two pathways to earning a paralegal associate’s degree from Marshalltown Community College – the Associate in Applied Science or the Associate in Arts. Both degree programs prepare students for entry-level work as paralegals in various fields of law. Students may tailor their program electives to reflect areas of interest or career goals. Program electives include such topics as Business Law, Criminal Law, Income Tax Accounting, Real Estate Law, and Torts and Litigation. Students gain preparation to transfer to four-year colleges or universities upon graduation. The program is highly affordable, with approximately 56 percent of undergraduates receiving some form of grant or scholarship aid.
Massachusetts Bay Community College
Online Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Wellesley Hills, Massachusetts
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #24
For students interested in the pursuit of an online paralegal associate’s degree, the road to graduation does not need to be costly. Massachusetts Bay Community College offers one of the most affordable online paralegal associate’s degree programs in the state. Students take a variety of humanities, math and science, economics, and social science classes along with the required paralegal courses. Typical Paralegal Studies courses include topics such as Legal Research and Writing, Litigation for Paralegals, and Principles of Business Law. U.S. News and World Report states that approximately 46 percent of undergraduates attending Massachusetts Bay receive grant and scholarship aid.
Ivy Tech Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Various
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #23
Affordable online paralegal degree programs at Ivy Tech Community College are designed for students interested in law and want to pursue a successful career in the legal profession. Two degree pathways lead to graduating with an associate’s degree in paralegal studies. Students learn from professional and experienced faculty, many with years of practical knowledge in the legal field. Some faculty members are practicing attorneys and judges. Courses are taught in an engaging fashion, providing mock courtroom opportunities hosted by the Indiana Court of Appeals. Graduates are prepared to transfer to four-year colleges and universities and then pursue law school.
Tyler Junior College
Online Associate of Applied Science Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Tyler, Texas
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #22
Earning an affordable paralegal online degree from Tyler Junior College lays the foundation for a successful career as a paralegal. Not only does the program prepare students with the required skills to succeed but the program is highly affordable. Students enter their first year of employment without feeling the burden of debt. According to U.S. News and World Report, approximately 49 percent of undergraduates at Tyler Junior College receive grant or scholarship aid. The average grant award exceeds the amount of undergraduate tuition. Students are able to utilize their grant award money for books and supplies.
Madisonville Community College
Online Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal Technology
School Profile
Madisonville, Kentucky
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #21
Affordable online paralegal degrees are found in a variety of community colleges; however, one of the most affordable programs in Kentucky is located at Madisonville Community College. The unique program design combines paralegal studies with technology, and the curriculum meets the standards developed by the National Association of Legal Assistants’ Descriptions of Certified Legal Assistant Exam Sections. Course topics include Civil Litigation, Family Law, Real Property, and Wills and Estates. U.S. News and World Report states that 50 percent of undergraduates at Madisonville Community College receive grant and scholarship aid. The college is focused on assisting students to the challenges of raising money and reducing debt.
Albany State University
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Albany, Georgia
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #20
The online Paralegal Studies program at Albany State University prepares students for careers as paralegals and legal assistants. The program is designed to take two years, but may be completed in less time if students have already taken required courses or have earned a previous associate’s degree. Typical courses required include Introduction to the Paralegal Profession, Litigation and Trial Practice, Real Estate Law, and Tort Law. Special topics in paralegal studies are often offered during the second year and students may choose courses that satisfy career goals or specific interests.
Community College of Aurora
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Aurora, Colorado
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #19
Undergraduate Tuition and Fees : $3,394
What sets the Community College of Aurora apart from similar institutions is its stamp of approval from the American Bar Association. Graduates of the Paralegal Studies program feel confident knowing they completed an ABA-approved program. This type of program is known for its rigor, quality, and access to contemporary research methods. The school offers an open-enrollment policy and low student-to-faculty ratio. Faculty members have worked or currently work in the legal field as paralegals, attorneys, and judges. U.S. News and World Report states that approximately 54 percent of the school’s undergraduates receive grant or scholarship aid, and the average award is $7,534.
Navarro College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Corsicana, Texas
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #18
The highly affordable paralegal online degree program offered at Navarro College prepares students to work under direct supervision of attorneys in various legal fields and practices. The degree program may be completed in two years, although students have the option of early completion. Typical course topics include Business Organizations, Criminal Law and Procedure, Introduction to Law, Law Office Management, and Wills, Trusts and Probate Administration. The program is approved by the ABA with coursework that leads to a convenient transition to a four-year university or college. U.S. News and World Report indicates that 54 percent of undergraduates attending Navarro College receive scholarship or grant aid awards.
Mountain Empire Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Big Stone Gap, Virginia
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #17
Mountain Empire Community College is a two-year college located in Big Stone Gap, Virginia. The college offers an extensive distance-learning program that serves students from around the state. A popular online program at the community college is Paralegal Studies, which offers an Associate of Applied Science degree pathway. Students are prepared to enter the legal field and work under direct supervision of an attorney, in various areas of the law. To make attendance affordable, the school offers grant and scholarship aid to approximately 58 percent of undergraduates. According to U.S. News and World Report, the average grant and scholarship award is $3,800.
Hutchinson Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science Paralegal/Legal Assistant
School Profile
Hutchinson, Kansas
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #16
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, earning affordable online paralegal degrees from accredited institutions may yield promising employment, as the job outlook for paralegals increases 17 percent faster than the national average. Hutchinson Community College offers an online AAS Paralegal degree program that readies students for careers as legal professionals. Course topics include Business Law, Family Law, Legal Ethics, Personal Injury and Civil Wrongs, and Small Business Accounting. The program combines business and law courses that provide students with a skill set to succeed. To provide affordable education, the school offers grant and scholarship aid to over 45 percent of its undergraduates.
Atlanta Technical College
Online Associate’s in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Atlanta, Georgia
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #14
Atlanta Technical College offers a Paralegal Studies program that prepares students for work with attorneys in various areas of law. The program has been in operation for twenty years with a solid track record of employment placement following graduation. Students explore different aspects of the legal field, including civil litigation, criminal law, family law, legal research and writing, and real estate law. Atlanta Technical College strives to make education costs affordable to students. According to U.S. News and World Report, approximately 89 percent of undergraduates receive some form of grant or scholarship money to assist with tuition and expenses. The average award is over $5,000.
Kansas City Kansas Community College
Online Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Kansas City, Kansas
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #13
Kansas City Kansas Community College offers a two-year degree program in Paralegal Studies that leads to an Associate in Applied Science. The program is available online and prepares students for easy transition to a four-year institution upon completion. An on-site advisor works with students who plan to transfer to a four-year college or university. Course requirements include topics such as Business Organizations, Criminal Law for the Paralegal, Family Law, Insurance Law, and Legal Research and Writing. The school strives to keep education costs affordable to students. According to U.S. News and World Report, 61 percent of undergraduates attending Kansas City Kansas Community College receive grant or scholarship aid.
Colorado Mountain College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Glenwood Springs, Colorado
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #12
Students searching for affordable online paralegal degree programs desire strong academics that prepare them for employment or the ability to transfer to a four-year university or college. Colorado Mountain College offers an AAS degree in Paralegal Studies that not only meets the above criteria, but is also affordable. The program provides fundamental and substantive knowledge in the most common legal fields, such as contract law, family law, and torts. Students learn how the legal system works at both the civil and criminal level. CNN/Money ranks Colorado Mountain College in the Top 20 Nationally Recognized Schools for Value and Student Success.
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Online Paralegal Technology Associate’s Degree
School Profile
Senatobia, Mississippi
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #10
The unique paralegal studies program at Northwest Mississippi Community College combines legal technology with paralegal courses. The program is designed to prepare students for entry into the legal job market immediately following graduation. Students are also prepared to transfer to a four-year institution. The paralegal curriculum is in accordance with the standards set forth by the American Bar Association guidelines. In fact, area legal professionals routinely review the curricula to ensure compliance. The school actively promotes affordability of its education. U.S. News and World Report states that the school provides scholarship and grant aid to approximately 76 percent of undergraduates.
Columbus Technical College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Columbus, Georgia
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #9
For students looking for an affordable online paralegal associates degree, Columbus Technical College is a top choice, especially for individuals living in Georgia. The school offers a unique program course selection that allows students to choose their electives based on career goals and interests. The program is also highly affordable, especially for those living in-state. Typical course topics include Criminal Law and Criminal Procedure, Law Office Management, Public Speaking, and Tort Law. In U.S. News and World Report’s Paying for Community College publication, Columbus Technical is listed as providing 87 percent of its undergraduates with grant and scholarship aid money.
Itawamba Community College
Online Associate in Paralegal Technology
School Profile
Fulton, Mississippi
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #8
Itawamba Community College offers an online Associate’s degree in Paralegal Technology that is designed to prepare students to work in various areas of the legal field. The program provides extensive training in civil litigation, family law, legal research and writing methods, and other legal areas. Upon graduation, students are eligible to pursue full-time employment as a paralegal or transfer to a four-year institution for further education. The school offers substantial financial aid packages, making undergraduate tuition and fees highly affordable. U.S. News and World Report indicates that 79 percent of undergraduates at Itawamba receive grant or scholarship aid that does not require repayment.
Western Piedmont Community College
Online Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal Technology
School Profile
Morgantown, North Carolina
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #7
An affordable paralegal online degree is available at Western Piedmont Community College in Morganton, North Carolina. The program is designed to prepare students with coursework and knowledge that leads to a two-year Paralegal Technology degree. Graduates of the program are trained to assist licensed attorneys in various areas of law, including investigations, trials, research, and office management. Coursework covers topics such as family law, real estate, and torts. According to U.S. News and World Report, approximately 81 percent of the school’s undergraduates receive scholarship or grant aid to pay for tuition. The average financial aid award, excluding loans, is $4,772.
Holmes Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Technology
School Profile
Goodman, Mississippi
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #6
Holmes Community College offers an online Associate of Applied Science degree in Paralegal Technology. The program blends legal studies with contemporary technology commonly used in the legal system. The program prepares students to become entry-level paralegals with a unique skill set and drive to succeed on the job. All classes are provided online through voice podcasts, which offers students abbreviated lectures. Faculty members are working professionals with years of experience working in the legal field. The school offers an active student club for paralegal studies students known as Holmes Association of Legal Studies (HALS). The program is highly affordable and recognized as one of the best value degrees in Mississippi.
Mohave Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal
School Profile
Kingman, Arizona
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #5
The Paralegal Studies program at Mohave Community College in Kingman, Arizona is a fully comprehensive program designed to prepare students for entry-level careers as paralegals. Graduates of the program find employment in various areas of the law. Positions include court clerks, government legal workers, title examiners, or law firm administrators. The AAS degree in Paralegal Studies covers course topics such as Criminal Law, Family Law, Legal Research and Writing, and Torts. According to U.S. News and World Report, Mohave presents scholarships and grants to 52 percent of undergraduates attending the school. The institution prides itself on decreasing education costs.
Rio Salado College
Online Associate in Applied Science in Paralegal
School Profile
Tempe, Arizona
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #4
Rio Salado College is located in the heart of the urban area of Tempe, Arizona. The city campus offers access to nearby businesses, organizations, and opportunities for employment and internships. One of the most popular degree programs on-campus is Paralegal Studies. To make the program affordable, the school awards grants and scholarships to over 30 percent of its undergraduates. In fact, according to U.S. News and World Report, the average grant or scholarship aid award was $2,470, which exceeds in-state tuition. The Paralegal program prepares students for entry-level employment with law firms in all areas of the law, including Criminal Law, Family Law, or Real Estate Law.
Tallahassee Community College
Online Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Tallahassee, Florida
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #3
Affordable online paralegal degrees have become essential in lowering the burden of debt upon graduation. Thankfully, community colleges and state universities are providing access to low-cost education. Tallahassee Community College is one such school that offers low tuition rates and fees for those interested in studying Paralegal and Legal Studies. The program is offered through the Division of Technology and Professional Programs, and requires 64 credit hours to complete. The program is highly affordable. In fact, U.S. News and World Report states that 62 percent of undergraduates attending Tallahassee Community College were awarded some form of scholarship or grant aid that did not require repayment.
Yavapai College
Online Associate of Applied Science – Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Prescott, Arizona
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #2
Yavapai College, located in Prescott, Arizona, offers an Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies. The program is designed to prepare students for work as paralegals in various legal fields. While students may obtain employment upon graduation, the program also prepares students to transfer to four-year degree granting institutions. Some graduates of the program have even gone on to law school after earning a baccalaureate degree. To make the program affordable, Yavapai College awards 36 percent of undergraduates grant or scholarship aid. U.S. News and World Report lists that the average grant or scholarship award was $5,727. That’s nearly three times the amount of in-state undergraduate tuition and fees.
Clovis Community College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Legal Assistant Studies (Paralegal)
School Profile
Clovis, New Mexico
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: #1
Clovis Community College trains students through instruction from broad-based perspective in various areas of law, which prepares students for entry-level employment in the legal field. The school offers an Association of Applied Science Degree program in Legal Assistant Studies that presents courses entirely online. Topics covered include Criminal Law, Criminal Procedures, Family Law, Real Estate Law, and Torts and Practice. Clovis awards approximately 43 percent of its undergraduates some form of grant or scholarship aid. The institution takes pride in offering high scholarship and grant award monies that do not need to be repaid. Students may earn an affordable online paralegal degree without going into debt, thanks to the school’s average grant award of $3,377.
Saint-Mary-of-the-Woods College
Online Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
St. Mary’s, Indiana
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: n/a
Indiana-based Saint-Mary-of-the-Woods College offers an associate’s degree in Paralegal Studies that can be completed entirely online, from anywhere in the world. The 39-credit program includes such classes as Legal Research, Litigation, and Theories of Liability, to name but three. The degree program then culminates in a required practicum. To make the degree even more affordable, students may transfer in previous work experience, transfer credits, and prior learning assessments. Impressively, 90% of Saint-Mary-of-the-Woods graduates find employment within just a few months of graduation.
Bryant and Stratton College
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Buffalo, New York
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: n/a
Bryant and Stratton College, based in New York, offers a fully online A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies. The 60-credit degree program includes coursework in research, legal ethics, and document preparation, among other things. The program culminates in a paralegal capstone course. Although the degree can be completed entirely online, it is also collaborative — a unique approach for online paralegal degrees.
Keiser University
Online Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: n/a
Keiser University offers an A.A. in Paralegal Studies that can be completed entirely online. Throughout the 60-credit program, future paralegals will develop the essential skills needed to succeed in a career as a legal assistant. Coursework includes classes on family law, wills and trusts, and legal research and writing, among other things.
Virginia College
Online Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies
School Profile
Birmingham, Alabama
Estimated Program Cost:
Previous Ranking: n/a
Based in Birmingham, Alabama, Virginia College offers an online associate’s degree in paralegal studies. The 62-credit degree program is comprehensive, and focuses on preparing students for a career of legal research, writing, and organization. Coursework includes classes on drafting documents, reviewing cases, and gathering evidence, among other things. Upon graduation, graduates of the program are fully prepared to work with lawyers in courts and legal offices.
McNeese State University
Online Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
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Lake Charles, Louisiana
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Future paralegals will be ready and prepared to work in the legal profession once they complete the online A.A. in Paralegal Studies that is offered by McNeese State University. The degree program spans 64 credits, and includes coursework in litigation, family practice, and legal writing and research, to name but three subjects. Completion of a seminar and an internship are also required before graduation. Uniquely, students in McNeese’s online paralegal program have the option to tailor their degree towards Family Law Practice, Probate Practice and Procedure, and Estate Planning and Procedure.
Clayton State University
Online Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
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Morrow, Georgia
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Clayton State University offers an Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies that can be completed from anywhere in the world. In order to graduate, students must complete 61 credits of coursework that includes law office skills, criminal litigation, real estate law, and business organizations, to name but a few. Students may also choose to focus their degree. Focus options include Intellectual Property Law, Employment Law, Bankruptcy/Debtor-Credit Relations, and Healthcare Law. Students are also encouraged to participate in an internship in order to gain real-world experience.
Liberty University
Online Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
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Lynchburg, Virginia
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Liberty University offers a variety of online degree programs, including an Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies. The program is flexible, though students typically complete the 60-credit degree program in two years or less. Coursework includes classes on tort law, criminal law, legal research and writing, and the foundations of law, just to name a few.
Ashworth College
Online Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies
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Norcross, Georgia
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Georgia-based Ashworth College offers a 100% online associate’s degree in paralegal studies. The affordable degree program consists of 60 credits, and can be completed in as few as 16 months. Coursework includes legal research and writing, business law, law office management, and torts, among other important subjects.
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