In the following ranking, we examine the top 20 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies degrees. Every successful law firm needs a team of hardworking paralegals and legal assistants who work behind the scenes. These professionals prepare documents and paperwork, organize cases and files, conduct critical research, and perform other law-related duties. While you won’t find a paralegal arguing in court or actively practicing law, their responsibilities often overlap with those of attorneys. If you are interested in the field of law, are passionate about fighting for justice, or are thinking about becoming a lawyer, you might be the perfect candidate for an online paralegal degree program. Below, we have narrowed down the top 20 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies and ranked them based on three key metrics: affordability, class size, and student success.
Methodology
We understand how time-consuming it can be to sift through the many paralegal studies programs offered in the U.S. Therefore, we decided to compile the following list of the top 20 best affordable online Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies degrees to help. To start, we searched for online legal assistant and paralegal studies bachelor’s degrees using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We then narrowed down the initial pool of 25 schools into the top 20 programs based on the methodology.
Average Cost of Attendance
The first thing we looked at when awarding points was the average cost of attendance at each institution. When comparing programs, try not to base your decision solely on cost and instead think about other important things. In other words, while it might be tempting to choose the cheapest program to save money, also make sure the school offers the area of study you are interested in, opportunities for hands-on learning, or extracurriculars you might want to join. For the following article, we ranked tuition based on the cost of one academic year of study using in-state rates provided by the NCES. We also included out-of-state rates but did not use these numbers when awarding points.
Points:
Under $7,500: 5 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 3 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
Next, we looked at student-to-faculty ratios from NCES and used these figures to get a better idea of the learning environment at each school. Although there are exceptions, in most cases, schools with low ratios tend to provide smaller classes and, therefore, greater accountability and more opportunities for one-on-one learning. On the other hand, schools with high ratios tend to provide larger classes as well as more opportunities for internships and more academic programs to choose from. Although there are pros and cons to each, for this ranking, we awarded the most points to colleges and universities with the lowest ratios of one professor or faculty member for every 10 or fewer students.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Graduation Rate
Finally, we looked at each school’s graduation rate to understand student success and satisfaction at that particular institution. In most cases, colleges with high graduation rates are doing something right to keep their students happy and enrolled right through graduation. Conversely, universities with low graduation rates may be falling short in one area or another, causing their students to leave and finish their degrees somewhere else. This could be due to any number of reasons like offering unaffordable programs, hiring inexperienced professors, or failing to provide the academic support students need to succeed. For this reason, schools with the highest graduation rates, according to NCES, earned the most points based on the following ranges.
Points
More than 50 percent: 3 points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent: 2 points
Less than 30 percent: 1 point
Ranking Top 20 Best Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies Degrees
20. Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
Points: 4
Program Website
Established in 1971 as Lynchburg Baptist College, Liberty University is one of the largest Christian universities in the world. Undergraduates looking for an affordable online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree can pursue Liberty’s 120-credit-hour low-cost, online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies. The inexpensive online degree program is designed to help undergraduates develop strong professional skills as well as a solid foundation in law, politics, and government. The curriculum covers areas like criminal practice and procedures, constitutional government and free enterprise, family law, and the foundations of law. The program is available entirely online and can be completed in three and a half years.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $22,584
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,584
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
19. Brandman University
Irvine, California
Points: 4
Program Website
Brandman University is a fully accredited, separate university within the Chapman University System. Established in 1958 as Chapman University College, Brandman is also one of the most affordable universities for an online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree. The school confers a fully online and inexpensive Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies, Paralegal Profession that is comprised of core coursework in alternative dispute resolution, trial preparation, litigation, and the foundations of law. Coursework also delves into law practice management and how contemporary legal issues impact governing systems. Graduates are prepared to sit for the Certified Paralegal Exam (NALA), the Paralegal Core Competencies Exam (NFPA), and to seek employment as a paralegal in California.
Degree Options:
BA in Legal Studies, Paralegal Profession
In-State Tuition: $12,380
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,380
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
18. Grand View University
Des Moines, Iowa
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1896, Grand View University is a private liberal arts university affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. GVU is the only college in Iowa that offers a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies. The school partners with Des Moines Area Community College to offer a cheap, online 2+2 paralegal program. Students complete their associate degrees at DMACC before advancing into GVU’s low-cost online bachelor’s program. Undergraduates also have the option to enhance and customize their experience via an online concentration in either business and human resource management or public administration. An internship, senior seminar, and capstone project are required for graduation.
Degree Options:
2+2 Paralegal Program
In-State Tuition: $27.608
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,608
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 50 percent
17. University of Providence
Great Falls, Montana
Points: 5
Program Website
The University of Providence is a private university that was established in 1932. Students seeking a cost-effective online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree can pursue UP’s ABA-accredited and affordable online Bachelor of Science in Legal and Paralegal Studies. Each core course provides a balance between practical application and legal theory. Students can develop expertise in a specialty area through electives. An internship requirement provides real-world experience in a corporation, judge’s office, or law firm. Although the program is available entirely online, some components may require on-campus visits. For instance, the curriculum requires students to complete 10 credits in legal specialty courses in a face-to-face classroom environment.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Legal and Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $25,168
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,168
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
16. Regent University
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Points: 5
Program Website
Students looking for an economical online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree may consider Regent University. Established in 1977, Regent is a private Christian university that offers an affordable online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies through its ABA-approved School of Law. Students gain technology, organization, communication, and research skills as they practice drafting pleadings, briefs, motions, and other documents. Undergraduates also learn how to manage case files, interview witnesses and clients, and develop management and clerical skills. The curriculum provides an overview of the most common practice areas of law, including contracts, marriage and family, personal injury, and real estate. Graduates are prepared for careers as litigation support analysts, administrative assistants, legal aid advocates, legal assistants, and judiciary clerks.
Degree Options:
B.S. in Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $18,380
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,380
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 47:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
15. University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, Massachusetts
Points: 5
Program Website
The University of Massachusetts-Lowell is a public research university and a member of the University of Massachusetts System. Established in 1894, UMass Lowell is also recognized as one of the most affordable universities for an online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree. UMass Lowell’s highly-ranked and low-cost online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Paralegal Option blends hands-on skills with legal theory. Students gain experience in legal writing and research as well as an in-depth look into the American legal process and system. The inexpensive online 120-credit-hour curriculum is provided in a blended format of both online and on-campus classes. Topics of study include the criminal justice system, the federal rules of procedure, and courts and jurisdictions. Students also learn about various practice areas of law like real estate law, criminal law, and family law.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Paralegal Option
In-State Tuition: $15,180
Out-of-State Tuition: $32,827
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
14. Charter Oak State College
New Britain, Connecticut
Points: 5
Program Website
Charter Oak State College is a public online liberal arts college that was established in 1973. COSC offers an affordable online paralegal studies program that was developed with the input of educators, lawyers, and practitioners and with the Connecticut Bar Association (CBA). Students complete 36 hours for the concentration in areas like legal ethics and professional responsibilities, civil procedures, legal research and writing, management, and business law. Students may then tailor the program based on paralegal electives in various practice areas like criminal law, family law, real estate law, healthcare law, elder law, and environmental law. A capstone is required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $8,301
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,854
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: N/A
13. University of Maine at Augusta
Augusta, Maine
Points: 5
Program Website
Established in 1965, the University of Maine at Augusta is a public institution of higher education and a member of the University of Maine System. UMA offers a high-value online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree in the form of a Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies. The economical online degree program provides an academic foundation in all law-related fields as well as a credential in one or two specialties. Students must complete 121 credit hours of study, including core courses in criminal law, criminal justice, and comparative international justice issues. Students then have the option to pursue a concentration in criminal justice and complete coursework in community policing, investigations, and forensic science as well as two criminal justice electives. Graduates are prepared to work in fields like legal services and healthcare.
Degree Options:
Justice Studies, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $7,988
Out-of-State Tuition: $17,918
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 18 percent
12. Loyola University Chicago
Chicago, Illinois
Points: 6
Program Website
The Loyola University of Chicago is a private Catholic research university that was founded by the Jesuits in 1870 as St. Ignatius College. LUC offers an affordable online Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies designed for students who have completed an associate degree or at least 15 credits in paralegal studies. Students develop their skills in corporate practice areas and litigation through classes in civil litigation, contract administration and analysis, and secured transactions and bankruptcy. Other topics of focus include law office technology, legal ethics, and legal writing, analysis, and research. Courses are offered entirely online in eight-week sessions, which may include both asynchronous and synchronous meetings. Undergraduates must complete a capstone to graduate from the program.
Degree Options:
BA in Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $44,048
Out-of-State Tuition: $44,048
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 74 percent
11. Hampton University
Hampton, Virginia
Points: 6
Program Website
One of the most affordable universities for an online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree, Hampton University is a private historically black university (HBCU) that was established in 1868. Students may pursue a top-value online Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies degree that combines a strong liberal arts foundation with specialized legal training. The economical online 122-credit-hour paralegal degree program delves into law office management, constitutional law, criminal law, real estate, and wills, trusts, and estates. Students develop legal research and writing skills and learn about legal responsibilities and ethics. Undergraduates also complete a paralegal internship during their senior year to gain hands-on, real-world experience. Graduates are prepared to work in law firms, banks, government agencies, real estate organizations, and other public and private sectors.
Degree Options:
B.A. Degree in Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $26,702
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,702
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
10. Mississippi College
Clinton, Mississippi
Points: 6
Program Website
Founded in 1826, Mississippi College is the oldest college in Mississippi and the second-oldest Baptist-affiliated college in the U.S. Students seeking a best-value online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree can pursue MC’s inexpensive online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies. Available entirely online, the program consists of 130 semester hours of study. In addition to completing university core and general education requirements, undergraduates also focus on topics like legal writing and research, law office management, and civil litigation. Other areas of study include wills and estates, family law, and real property law. Students must also complete an 18-hour minor to graduate from the program.
Degree Options:
Paralegal Studies, B.S.
In-State Tuition: $18,026
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,026
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 53 percent
9. Peirce College
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Points: 6
Program Website
Established in 1865, Peirce College is a private college that focuses on providing academic programs to adult learners. An affordable university for an online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree, Peirce offers an ABA-approved, low-priced, online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies. Students may save time and money by transferring up to 90 credits toward the degree requirements. They can complete the remaining 31 credits entirely online. The curriculum covers topics like civil litigation, legal technology, legal research, and business organizations. Students are also introduced to many practice areas of law, including estate, real estate, family, criminal, tort, and contract law. A paralegal capstone course is required for graduation. Graduates are prepared for entry-level employment in government, corporate offices, or law firms. They may also choose to attend law school or pursue a master’s degree in criminal justice, business law, or legal studies.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $15,060
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,060
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Graduation Rate: 35 percent
8. SUNY College of Technology at Canton
Canton, New York
Points: 6
Program Website
The State University of New York (SUNY) at Canton is a public college and a member of the SUNY System. Established in 1906, SUNY Canton is also ranked among the top colleges for an online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree. SUNY Canton offers a high-value online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies in which students learn about legal writing and research. The curriculum also examines different practice areas of law like real property law, family law, constitutional law, and business law. Other areas of study include civil litigation, negligence and intentional torts, and criminal practice. Beyond the classroom, students gain real-world learning experience by using case studies and examples to produce well-researched, well-written documents that apply their clients’ facts to the law.
Degree Options:
Legal Studies – B.S.
In-State Tuition: $8,389
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,379
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 40 percent
7. Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Points: 6
Program Website
Established as the Louisiana State Normal School in 1884, Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a public university and a top choice among undergraduates seeking a top-value online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree. NSU offers an affordable, online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a concentration in pre-law and legal studies. Students are required to complete the program requirements for the inexpensive, online, 120-hour legal assistant B.A. degree as well as an additional seven courses in the concentration. Students receive a well-rounded liberal arts education with a legal focus of study. The concentration is available entirely online with no campus visits required. Graduates are prepared for employment in the legal field as paralegals as well as for graduate-level legal studies.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, Concentration in Pre-Law and Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $7,922
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,710
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 45 percent
6. Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Indiana
Points: 7
Program Website
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College is a liberal arts, Roman Catholic college and the oldest Catholic institution of higher education in the state. Founded in 1840, SMWC offers an affordable online Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies that focus on the study of law in its relation to history, society, and politics — all within the context of a liberal arts education. Students must complete 51 credit hours in the major, including 39 hours of legal specialty and paralegal courses and 12 hours of electives based on a student’s personal interests or professional goals. Core areas of study include civil litigation, legal research, interviewing and investigation, contracts and commercial transactions, and computers in the law. A legal practicum experience is also required for graduation.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $29,960
Out-of-State Tuition: $29,960
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
5. William Woods University
Fulton, Missouri
Points: 7
Program Website
William Woods University is a private institution of higher education that was established in 1870 by the Disciples of Christ. An accredited, affordable university for an online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree, WWU offers a 42-hour low-cost, online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies that combines a rigorous curriculum with a service-oriented, student-centered educational environment. Classes are offered in convenient eight-week sessions and focus on legal interviewing and investigating, legal research and writing, substantive and procedural law, the American legal system, and the delivery of legal services. Beyond the classroom, undergraduates gain hands-on paralegal experience through a Virtual Law Office practicum requirement.
Degree Options:
Online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $24,110
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,110
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
4. Kent State University
Kent, Ohio
Points: 7
Program Website
Established in 1910 as a teacher-training school, Kent State University is a public research university that offers an affordable online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree program. Offered through the College of Arts and Sciences, KSU’s economical, online Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies is an ABA-accredited program that combines legal specialty courses with a liberal arts foundation. Classes are offered entirely online for both part- and full-time undergraduates. Students develop communication skills, knowledge of the legal system, the ability to conduct legal research, analytical skills, and practical, hands-on experience. All students must complete an internship to graduate from the program.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies
In-State Tuition: $10,312
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,014
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
3. Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, Kentucky
Points: 7
Program Website
Eastern Kentucky University is a public university and one of the top three schools for an affordable online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree. EKU offers a fully online and economical bachelor’s degree in paralegal science that requires 120 credit hours of study. The curriculum blends professional and academic preparation through course topics like probate practice, legal administration and computer applications, legal research and writing, criminal law, family law, and litigation. Classes are offered in accelerated eight-week terms. Outside of the classroom, students benefit from active job placement assistance; EKU reports that 90 percent of graduates are either working or pursuing law or graduate school within six months of earning their degrees.
Degree Options:
Paralegal Science Bachelor’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $9,666
Out-of-State Tuition: $19,444
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
2. University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, Maryland
Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Maryland Global Campus holds the number two spot on our list of the best affordable universities for an online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree. Established in 1947, UMGC is a public university focused on online education. UMGC offers a top-value, online bachelor’s degree in legal studies that examines the processes, function, and organization of law-making institutions in the U.S. legal system. Students also investigate the governing rules of legal ethics and the role of the paralegal in the legal system. The low-priced online legal studies degree program emphasizes hands-on learning and allows students to complete forms, draft documents, and conduct research. Graduates are prepared for positions in legal case review and support, legal writing, legal research, and legal advocacy.
Degree Options:
Legal Studies Bachelor’s Degree
In-State Tuition: $7,416
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,336
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 15 percent
1. Florida Gulf Coast University
Fort Myers, Florida
Points: 8
Program Website
Topping our list of the most affordable universities for an online legal assistant and paralegal studies degree is Florida Gulf Coast University. Established in 1991, FGCU is a public university and a member of the 12-school State University System of Florida. FGCU offers a cheap, online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies that provides a solid foundation in the areas of legal research and writing, criminal procedure, professional ethics, torts, and contract law. Students may also choose to focus on a specific area by completing elective coursework in international law, criminal law, family law, real estate, trusts and estates, wills, and litigation. Graduates are prepared for careers in paralegal and legal assisting as well as for success in both graduate school and law school.
Degree Options:
Legal Studies BS
In-State Tuition: $6,118
Out-of-State Tuition: $25,162
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 48 percent
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Career Options for an Online Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies Degree?
The most common career path for an undergraduate with a Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies degree is to become a legal assistant or paralegal. Many professionals work in law firms, while others are employed in the legal departments of private organizations or in federal, state, or local agencies. However, depending on the concentration one chooses at the undergraduate level, an online legal studies degree can also prepare graduates to work as a:
- Community Services Manager
- Court Clerk
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Corrections Officer
- Title Examiner
- Claims Adjuster
- Court Reporter
- Legal Secretary
- Administrative Assistant
- Information Clerk
As more employers are turning to paralegals who can assume a “hybrid” role, legal assistants are taking on not only their responsibilities but also those previously assigned to legal secretaries and other legal support workers. Paralegals may be expected to perform client interviews, real estate transactions, and case management. Other tasks might include contract preparation, fact investigation and evaluation, legal research, and/or exhibit research.
U.S. News & World Report indicates that becoming a paralegal or legal assistant does not require a higher degree. In fact, many legal assistants can find work with just a high school diploma. While the minimum requirement for entry-level work is typically an associate degree in paralegal studies, undergraduates who take it one step further and earn an online bachelor’s degree in legal assistant and paralegal studies might be considered for higher salaries, additional responsibilities, and better positions.
What is the Salary Potential for an Online Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies Degree?
When thinking about how much one can make as a legal assistant or paralegal, know that salary will depend on several factors. These include level of education, level of certification, area of specialization, the size of the law firm or employer, and both the city and state in which one works. To learn more about this occupation we consulted the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS reports that paralegals and legal assistants earned $24.49 per hour, or $50,940 per year, as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent of paralegals and legal assistants reported annual earnings of more than $82,050, while the lowest 10 percent brought in less than $31,400.
In addition, the median yearly salaries from lowest to highest for paralegals and legal assistants in the top industries in which they worked were:
- State government, excluding hospitals and education: $46,970
- Legal services: $48,880
- Local government, excluding hospitals and education: $50,400
- Insurance and finance: $62,020
- Federal government: $67,340
Also, keep in mind that another factor that will affect salary potential is whether you continue your education beyond your Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies degree. Students who advance from an undergraduate program into law school might spend several more years in school, but they will be able to command a higher salary after they graduate with a law degree.
Employment of legal assistants and paralegals is expected to increase 12 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations, according to the BLS. Attorneys and lawyers are growing increasingly dependent on legal assistants as the amount of work increases. In other words, certain responsibilities previously geared toward entry-level lawyers and legal secretaries are now being reassigned to paralegals in an attempt to reduce costs. As a result, the occupation is seeing tremendous growth in terms of employment.
What Will You Learn About in an Online Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies Degree Program?
As you think about the curriculum requirements for an online bachelor’s degree in legal assistant and paralegal studies, remember that every school is different. In most cases, however, undergraduates must complete 120 credit hours of study. These programs often provide a strong foundation in legal writing and research, and undergraduates strengthen their understanding of the law’s different practice areas. Topics undergraduates can expect to encounter when pursuing an online paralegal program include business or insurance law, real estate law, criminal and civil law, legal ethics, and legal communication and research. Sample courses might include:
- Family Law, Tort, and Probate
- Criminal Procedures and Law
- Legal Responsibilities and Ethics
- Estates and Wills
- American Politics
- Law Office Technology
Also, depending on the program, undergraduates may be able to select an area of specialization or concentration within the online bachelor’s degree. Possible specializations may include corporate law, labor law, healthcare law, or criminal law. Keep in mind that the concentration chosen may extend the length of time to completion. Internships and practicum experiences may also affect program length. However, most students can earn their Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies within three to four years of full-time study. Some programs have also earned programmatic accreditation by the American Bar Association (ABA), the top organization for paralegals and lawyers in the U.S.
What Types of Certification and Licensure Can You Pursue After Earning an Online Bachelor’s in Legal Assistant and Paralegal Studies Degree?
Unlike becoming a teacher or nurse, the path to becoming a legal assistant or paralegal does not require certification or licensure. However, doing so can help when it comes time to apply for a position with a specific sector or with a certain employer. Also, other career options that are available for those with a bachelor’s degree, such as the position of a public claims adjuster, may require candidates to hold certification. Below are three types of certification and/or licensure to consider as you think about entering the field of paralegal studies:
- Registered Paralegal (RP)
- Professional Paralegal (PP)
- Certified Paralegal (CP) or Certified Legal Assistant (CLA)
If a graduate is not interested in earning formal certification or licensure but would still like to benefit from networking opportunities, job support, and information presented at annual conferences, he or she may consider joining a professional organization. Available to recent graduates and long-time legal assistants alike, these associations offer opportunities for interactions with other professionals, provide educational resources, and help professionals find new jobs. Below are three of the top professional organizations for legal assistants and paralegals:
- The American Bar Association (ABA)
- The National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
- The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
Regardless of whether you are thinking about an undergraduate paralegal studies degree to meet your professional goal of becoming a paralegal or you are using your bachelor’s as a stepping stone to law school, advancing your education beyond the associate level prepares you to take on more responsibility and command a higher-paying salary. As you start to research the most affordable bachelor’s degrees in legal assistant and paralegal studies, we hope that the above list of the top programs helps you narrow down the available options.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 20 best affordable online bachelor’s in legal assistant and paralegal studies degrees.
Other Rankings of Interest:
- 15 Affordable Online Associate’s Degrees in Paralegal Studies
- 15 Best Affordable Paralegal Studies Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 50 Best Affordable Pre-Law Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- The 10 Most Affordable Law Schools in the United States
- 15 Best Affordable Law Enforcement/Criminal Justice Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
- 5 Career Options with a Degree in Paralegal Studies
- What is the Average Salary of a Paralegal?
- 15 Best Affordable Forensic Science Degree Programs (Bachelor’s)
The Best Colleges
The Lowest Costs
The Highest Returns