Why Are There So Few Online ABA-Accredited Paralegal Programs?

Many students expect to find fully online ABA-approved programs, but options are rare. Said expectation is understandable considering the popularity of online learning.

The American Bar Association (ABA) plays a crucial role in paralegal education. Their approval of paralegal programs signals quality assurance and industry recognition.

But emphasis must be made that the ABA doesn’t accredit paralegal programs. Instead, it approves paralegal programs on a voluntary basis. Check out the Directory of ABA-approved Paralegal Education Programs.

So, why are there so few online ABA-accredited paralegal programs? If you’re interested in knowing why, read on.

Related:

What Does ABA Accreditation Mean for Paralegal Programs?

An important distinction must be made between ABA approval and institutional accreditation. ABA approval has specific applications to paralegal programs only. The focus is on their paralegal curriculum and training.

Institutional accreditation applies to an entire college or university. Regional or national accreditation means the entire school meets broad educational standards.

The legal national organization sets rigorous standards for ABA-approved paralegal programs to follow. These key areas are:

Curriculum
Faculty qualifications
Facilities and resources

Some employers prefer job candidates from ABA-approved programs because of:

Their standardized paralegal education and training
Their job readiness and practical skills
The trust and credibility that the ABA brand has in the legal industry

So, what does it mean for paralegal programs to have ABA approval? A competitive edge that attracts more students.

ABA Requirements That Limit Fully Online Approval

Fully online ABA-approved paralegal programs are rare because of the ABA’s strict requirements. But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t ABA-approved programs with an online component. You’ll still be able to find hybrid programs that combine quality and flexibility.

In-Person Instruction Mandates

ABA accreditation for paralegal programs requires that a portion of classes be face-to-face. This is particularly true for classes that involve practical skills training. You and your fellow students have to be in a physical location, not a virtual platform, for it.

The rule exists for many reasons, including:

Skills training: Paralegals must have practical skills that are best learned through in-person settings. Legal research, client interviewing, and courtroom procedures are among these skills. In-person interactions and hands-on learning work best for this purpose.
Networking: Aspiring paralegals can build and strengthen their network better in person. You’ll also enjoy more mentoring opportunities. Studies have shown that networking boosts your job and career prospects.
Supervised practice: In supervised practice, students perform real or simulated legal tasks. Students work under qualified legal professionals to ensure proper skills development. You and your peers may even work in law firms as interns.

Students also receive immediate feedback on their performance. You’ll also be exposed to professional environments and ethics. Students can even practice their client interaction skills, albeit under a watchful eye.

Faculty and Facility Standards

ABA’s faculty and facility standards impact paralegal programs ABA approved online, too. This is because ABA requires that certain resources be available on-site. The rule applies even if some of the classes are conducted online.

These standards include:

On-site law libraries, research facilities, and technology tools
Availability of faculty members in person for student engagement, discussion, and feedback

As a result, students can thrive in a supportive learning environment.

Assessment and Quality Assurance

ABA paralegal program requirements include assessment and quality assurance, too. These measures are done in person and on site. ABA reviewers make these site visits to:

Observe the quality and dynamics of classroom instruction.
Evaluate the adequacy of the resources and facilities.
Check if the program meets ABA criteria and shared goals.

Fully online programs present significant challenges for these in-person, on-site visits.

The Evolution of Online Learning and ABA’s Position

There was early skepticism of distance learning in the legal field for many reasons. First, legal work has a hands-on approach that raises concerns about online learning. Online students may not be as prepared for real-world challenges.

Second, there’s a strong emphasis on interpersonal communication and professional ethics. These aspects are best developed through in-person interactions – and legal professionals agree.

As a result, ABA hasn’t adapted as well as colleges and companies to online learning. This is true even when the pandemic forced a rapid shift to online learning. ABA’s in-person requirements remained largely intact despite the widespread shift.

To be fair, ABA made accommodations, too, such as allowing more online instruction. But it was temporary in nature. As such, full ABA approval for 100% online programs is uncommon.

Some colleges offer ABA-approved paralegal education in a hybrid format. These programs provide students with flexibility but still meet ABA’s in-person requirements.

Examples of ABA-Approved Paralegal Programs with Online Components

These universities offer distance learning ABA paralegal programs that feature a hybrid format. In these programs, students usually complete most of their courses online. But they must attend scheduled on-campus sessions, too, such as skills labs and exams.

George Mason University (Virginia)
Florida State College at Jacksonville (Florida)
University of Washington Tacoma (Washington)

These universities lead the way toward ABA-approved programs with an online component. As the legal profession evolves, we may see more of their kind. But, for now, strict rules mean that fully online ABA-approved programs are rare.

Pros and Cons of Choosing an ABA-Approved Program

Being aware of these pros and cons can lead to an informed decision.

Advantages

Employer recognition. While ABA approval isn’t mandatory, it’s widely respected by employers.
Quality assurance. ABA-approved programs meet rigorous standards that ensure quality education.
Rigorous standards. These include structured coursework and experienced faculty.

Disadvantages

Limited flexibility. ABA guidelines for paralegal programs can result in less flexibility in course offerings.
Potential higher costs. Students may pay higher tuition and fees. Meeting ABA standards involves significant costs (e.g., hiring qualified faculty).
Fewer online options. You may have to look for alternatives to online programs.

Alternatives to Fully Online ABA-Approved Programs

If you can’t enroll in an online ABA-approved program, consider these alternatives.

Regionally Accredited Non-ABA Programs

Explore non-ABA-accredited programs offered by regionally accredited schools. These programs also offer a solid paralegal education and training. Many programs are even offered in an online or hybrid format for greater flexibility.

National Certification Paths

Earn a national certification that highlights your paralegal knowledge and skills. The best national certifications are:

NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) and Advanced Certified Paralegal (ACP)
NFPA’s Registered Paralegal (RP) and Certified Registered Paralegal (CRP)

State Bar or Court-Approved Programs

Explore state-specific pathways that allow online completion. Ask your state bar association about non-ABA-accredited programs for this purpose.

How to Decide If an ABA-Approved Program Is Right for You

With the pros and cons of ABA-approved programs in mind, here’s how to decide if these are a good fit for you.

Determine your career goals. If you plan to work in sectors that require or prefer ABA-approved education, go for it. Otherwise, choose from other reputable programs offered by accredited schools.
Research local employer requirements. Check with local law firms, government agencies, and other employers. Some employers may have no preference for ABA-approved or non-ABA-approved programs. Certifications, work attitude, and experience may matter more.
Compare outcomes for ABA vs. non-ABA graduates. Understanding real-world outcomes means a more informed decision.

If you’re wondering how to choose an ABA-approved paralegal program, consider your interests, budget, and goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the ABA accredit fully online paralegal programs?

No, it cannot. ABA-accredited paralegal schools online programs aren’t 100% online. Instead, these are hybrid programs combining online and in-person components.

Is ABA approval required to become a paralegal?

No, it isn’t required by law.

Do employers prefer ABA-approved programs?

Many employers prefer them, but not all employers do.

How much of an ABA program can be online?

There’s no exact percentage, but ABA allows the majority of courses to be online. The experiential components must be in person.

Are there signs that the ABA will change its online policy?

There are no official indications of major shifts in its current policy.

Final Takeaways

So, why are there so few online ABA-accredited paralegal programs? This is because of ABA’s strict in-person requirements. These apply to three key areas:

In-person instruction
Access to physical facilities and resources
On-site assessment and quality assurance

But ABA-approved paralegal programs aren’t the only way. Hybrid paralegal programs and alternative routes exist. So, before you enroll, research both ABA and non-ABA paths.

Here’s a comparison table to help you decide:

Feature	Non-ABA-approved Fully Online Programs	ABA-approved Programs
Accreditation	Regional or national, college-wide approval	ABA program-specific approval
Instruction format	Fully online; synchronous and/or asynchronous courses	Hybrid (online classes and in-person sessions)
Curriculum standards	Varies between colleges	Follows ABA’s strict standards
Faculty credentials	Varies between colleges	Follows ABA’s strict standards
Access to facilities and resources	Online databases; limited physical access	On-campus facilities and resources
Experiential opportunities	May be optional or virtual	In-person
Flexibility	High	Limited
Employer recognition	Varies	High