Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

A ranking of the best paralegal studies degrees. Programs ranked by affordability, flexibility, and academic quality.
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Updated January 31, 2023

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We are drawn to legal battles for some reason, and those involve a number of different roles - lawyers, judges, criminals, witnesses . . . and whether you realize it or not, the paralegal.

This is a profession that is becoming increasingly necessary in today’s legal environment and that requires training in the nation’s best programs in paralegal studies.

In previous decades, paralegals received on-the-job training. As the profession grew, the formalized education took the form of Associate of Science programs, which offered training primarily in areas of specific interest to paralegal practice. But the bar has officially been raised!

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What kind of Paralegal Studies Degree should you get?

Today, the standard for training is a four-year bachelor’s degree from a community college or a traditional university. There, students are exposed not only to legal training in particular but also to courses in, say, communication, business, and economics—all helpful topics for a legal professional.

An additional marker that is becoming increasingly important is American Bar Association accreditation. Not all schools feature this, but the ones that do are proud of it . . . and rightly so! Be sure to keep this designation in mind as you research your options.

Some programs are also offering their programs online. For more information, see our ranking of the Best Online Paralegal Studies Degrees.

How much money do people make with a Paralegal Studies Degree?

Starting salaries for paralegals are deceptively low at between $27,000 and $32,000 per year according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. This will vary according to what skills you bring to the table and also who you’re working for.

However, the U.S. Department of Labor also predicts that the paralegal profession will be one of the fastest-growing occupations in the near future...so there is reason to expect that wages will grow as well!

What can you do with a Paralegal Studies Degree?

One of the reasons for the growth in the paralegal profession is that paralegals are increasingly being asked to perform legal duties traditionally performed by licensed attorneys. As the amount of legal work increases, attorneys are increasingly reliant on paralegals for much of what they do.

Examples of tasks a paralegal might perform include but are hardly limited to the following:

What are the requirements for a Paralegal Studies Degree?

In addition to whatever requirements a particular bachelor’s program in paralegal studies might require, paralegals will need to seek certification through one of three nationally recognized paralegal professional organizations:

Each organization has its own certifications as well as its own requirements. Be sure to do your homework on what organizations work best in your home state or the state you plan to work in!

What are the best Paralegal Studies Degrees?

We’ve compiled a list of the top 25 bachelor’s degrees in paralegal studies with you and your needs in mind. Here’s how we did it. First, we located the best programs in the country by taking an objective look at the best schools in the country as measured by reputation and return on investment.

Then we looked at the bottom line—how much does it cost? We combined these factors to reach our College Choice Score, which determined where each school fits into the big scheme of things.

Our data for this ranking was drawn from a variety of public sources, such as U.S. News & World Report, the National Center for Education Statistics, PayScale.com, and the U.S. Census. The end result is a list of schools that not only represent the best education you can get and a good return on investment but also one that will fit your budget.

Case dismissed!

Rankings

See our rankings methodology page.

#1 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

Liberty University

  • Lynchburg, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Liberty University enrolls undergraduates in 91 bachelor's programs, including its bachelor of science in paralegal studies. The program prepares students for entry-level roles in many fields. Bachelor's graduates can also pursue higher degrees to specialize their training.

The curriculum includes foundational and advanced courses in paralegal studies. Undergraduates also complete general education requirements, which strengthen analytical and critical thinking skills. Minors and second majors help enrollees balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong college support, whether they enroll on campus or online. For example, career counselors review job opportunities and connect learners with employment opportunities.

Liberty University at a Glance:

Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 51%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 30

Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,417

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,417

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,417
Out-of-state
$15,417
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,980
Out-of-state
$7,980
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
85,586
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

East Central University

  • Ada, OK
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

East Central University offers 31 bachelor's degrees, including a bachelor of science in legal studies that stands out for its quality. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. A bachelor's degree may also lead to higher education opportunities, including master's and doctoral programs.

The curriculum trains learners in foundational paralegal knowledge and practices. Undergraduates complete general education courses that strengthen communication, writing, and critical thinking skills. Declaring a minor or double majoring helps degree candidates explore other interests.

The school's student services help incoming enrollees integrate into the larger campus community. For example, career counselors review job opportunities and connect students with employment opportunities.

East Central University at a Glance:

Location: Ada, Oklahoma

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 59%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 6

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,648

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,008

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,648
Out-of-state
$15,008
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,298
Out-of-state
$10,726
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
59%
Students Enrolled
3,613
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

St. Petersburg College

  • Clearwater, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

St. Petersburg College, a public institution, welcomes degree-seekers to its bachelor's in paralegal studies program. Degree-seekers choose from in-person and online enrollment options at the Clearwater, Florida, school. Flexible course options, rigorous academics, and comprehensive support services appeal to many undergraduates.

Majors earn a bachelor's degree after taking paralegal studies and general education courses. Social sciences, STEM, and humanities classes meet the general education graduation requirements. Within the major, learners take upper-division courses that provide an advanced understanding of paralegal studies, preparing them for the job market.

St. Petersburg College at a Glance:

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 22

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 12

Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,559

Graduation Rate: 33%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $31,700

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$1,943
Out-of-state
$7,774
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
28,853
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

Hampton University

  • Hampton, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Hampton University offers a bachelor of arts in paralegal studies as one of its 70 bachelor's programs. Graduates enter the workforce prepared for diverse careers with this paralegal studies degree. A bachelor's degree also leads to higher education opportunities, including master's and doctoral programs.

The curriculum includes introductory paralegal studies classes and upper-division courses. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Minors and second majors help degree candidates balance their skills and demonstrate a well-rounded education.

Incoming degree-seekers can expect strong college support, whether they enroll on campus or online. For example, academic advisors work with students to make a graduation plan that accounts for transfer credits.

Hampton University at a Glance:

Location: Hampton, Virginia

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 36%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 11

Undergrad Tuition In State: $24,950

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $24,950

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$24,950
Out-of-state
$24,950
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,475
Out-of-state
$12,475
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
36%
Students Enrolled
4,293
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
11% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

Texas A&M University-Commerce

  • Commerce, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in paralegal studies at Texas A&M University-Commerce, which offers 51 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. Enrollees gain the knowledge and skills required for careers in diverse industries. Bachelor's graduates can also continue their education by applying to master's or doctoral programs.

The curriculum introduces key paralegal topics and principles. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Students can explore other interests by choosing a minor or a second major.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates integrate into the larger campus community. For example, career counselors help learners identify strengths and plan for the job market.

Texas A&M University-Commerce at a Glance:

Location: Commerce, Texas

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 43%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 12

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,790

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $17,460

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,790
Out-of-state
$17,460
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$3,630
Out-of-state
$11,232
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
43%
Students Enrolled
12,109
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

Regent University

  • Virginia Beach, VA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of science in paralegal studies program at Regent University, a private institution, ranks high for academic quality. Degree-seekers enroll in online classes and take in-person courses on the Virginia Beach, Virginia, campus. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive college support services.

The curriculum incorporates major-specific and general education courses. Learners take humanities, math, and communication classes as part of the general education curriculum. Graduates prepare for entry-level roles or further education in advanced courses, which cover theoretical and practical issues in the field.

Regent University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 86%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 37

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 32

Undergrad Tuition In State: $17,220

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $17,220

Graduation Rate: 57%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $34,800

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$17,220
Out-of-state
$17,220
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,552
Out-of-state
$15,552
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
86%
Students Enrolled
10,365
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
92% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

Bay Path University

  • Longmeadow, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in paralegal studies at Bay Path University, which offers 24 bachelor's degrees, helps enrollees reach their goals. Students gain the knowledge and skills required for diverse careers. Bachelor's graduates can also apply to master's programs to continue their education.

The curriculum covers the major principles and methods in paralegal studies. Undergraduates also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills through general education classes. Students can complement their degree with a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong support services when they enroll at the school. For example, financial aid counselors meet with students to identify their financial need and suggest funding sources.

Bay Path University at a Glance:

Location: Longmeadow, Massachusetts

Type of School: Private

Admissions Rate: 72%

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 18

Undergrad Tuition In State: $35,081

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $35,081

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$35,081
Out-of-state
$35,081
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$14,670
Out-of-state
$14,670
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
3,324
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
62% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

Eastern Kentucky University

  • Richmond, KY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor of arts in paralegal science program at Eastern Kentucky University, a public institution, stands out for its quality. From its Richmond, Kentucky, campus, the school runs in-person and online programs. Undergraduates benefit from flexible course options and comprehensive college support services.

Enrollees in the paralegal science program build comprehensive skills and knowledge through both general education and major courses. Students gain an understanding of diverse academic fields through the general education curriculum. Major courses introduce major theoretical and practical approaches to the field, preparing graduates to enter the workforce or pursue further education.

Eastern Kentucky University at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 94%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 89

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 17

Undergrad Tuition In State: $9,266

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,338

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,121

Graduation Rate: 45%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $32,700

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,266
Out-of-state
$19,338
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,900
Out-of-state
$13,950
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
14,980
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

Mississippi University for Women

  • Columbus, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in legal studies program at Mississippi University for Women, a public institution, stands out for its academic quality. Degree-seekers take classes in person on the Columbus campus and online. Undergraduates participate in rigorous academic programs and benefit from comprehensive support services.

The program includes general education and major courses that emphasize key skills and knowledge. Students meet general education requirements by taking classes in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The legal studies curriculum covers theoretical and advanced topics, preparing graduates for the workforce or further education.

Mississippi University for Women at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 97%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 29

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 4

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,425

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,425

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $7,762

Graduation Rate: 40%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $33,100

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,425
Out-of-state
$7,425
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,425
Out-of-state
$7,425
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
2,811
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online paralegal Studies Degrees

National American University-Rapid City

  • Rapid City, SD
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in paralegal studies program at National American University-Rapid City, which offers 30 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. Enrollees develop the knowledge and skills required for a variety of entry- and mid-level careers. A bachelor's degree also prepares graduates for additional degrees, such as a master's or doctorate.

The curriculum introduces foundational and advanced principles in paralegal studies. General education requirements also strengthen writing, communication, and critical thinking skills. Students can gain interdisciplinary training by choosing a minor or second major.

The school's student services help incoming degree candidates make connections on campus and thrive in their program. For example, career counselors connect enrollees with job fairs and internship opportunities.

National American University-Rapid City at a Glance:

Location: Rapid City, South Dakota

Type of School: Private

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 30

Undergrad Tuition In State: $15,000

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $15,000

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,000
Out-of-state
$15,000
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,554
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
100% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

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