What to Expect from an Accelerated Paralegal Associate Program
A two-year associate degree in paralegal studies prepares students to assist attorneys by conducting legal research, drafting documents, organizing case files, and more. These programs provide a direct path to enter the legal field in a supporting role and are often structured to balance theoretical knowledge with practical skill-building.
Program Overview
Paralegal associate degree programs typically result in an Associate of Science (AS), Associate of Arts (AA), or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies. These programs are often approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), which is essential for credibility and eligibility for national certifications.
Students graduate with a solid foundation in legal systems, procedures, and ethics, ready to work under attorney supervision in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations.
What You Study
A typical 60–90 credit curriculum spans legal, general education, and professional development courses. Below are common course categories and subjects:
Legal Core Courses
- Legal Research and Writing
- Civil Litigation
- Contract Law
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Family Law
- Property Law
- Legal Ethics
- Tort Law
Technology and Business Courses
- Legal Office Management
- Business Law
- Word Processing and Legal Software Tools
General Education Requirements
- English Composition
- Public Speaking
- College Algebra
- Environmental Science
- Psychology
- U.S. Constitution or American Government
Practical Experience
Most programs include a supervised externship or practicum, ranging from 120 to 225 hours, to provide real-world legal experience in law offices or courts.
Cost of a Paralegal Associate Degree
Tuition varies by institution. Based on available program data:
- Typical cost: $10,000–$30,000 total
- Example: American National University charges $29,900 including textbooks and fees.
- Example: Liberty University charges $390 per credit for full-time students.
- Example: Penn Foster offers an online option with competitive tuition and flexible pacing.
Many programs offer payment plans, military discounts, and financial aid options.
Admissions Requirements
Admission into a paralegal associate degree program is generally accessible:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completion of application (usually with no essay or test requirement)
- Some programs require minimum GPA or placement tests
- For ABA-approved programs, students must complete a portion of credits via synchronous (real-time) instruction
Some programs, like UAF’s ABA-approved paralegal degree, also include a 150-hour internship and synchronous online sessions to meet accreditation standards.
Career Outcomes
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for paralegals and legal assistants is around $60,970 per year. Entry-level salaries start at approximately $38,000, while experienced professionals can earn over $100,000 annually.
Graduates are prepared to:
- Draft legal documents
- Conduct legal research and case preparation
- Interview clients and witnesses
- Assist attorneys during hearings and trials
- Work in a range of legal settings
Many programs also prepare students to sit for national certification exams such as the NALA Certified Paralegal Exam, increasing employability.
Top Schools for Paralegal AA Degrees
The programs featured below offer flexible formats—ranging from fully online to hybrid or on-campus options—and are designed to prepare students with practical skills in legal research, document drafting, and case analysis. Many of these programs are ABA-approved and include externships or real-time instruction to enhance job readiness. With strong career outlooks and competitive tuition rates, these schools offer accessible and effective pathways to becoming a paralegal.
| School | Location | Program Format | Accreditation | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| National University | San Diego, CA | Fully Online | ABA, WASC | No application fee, 90 quarter units, 49.5 legal specialty units |
| Rasmussen University | Aurora, IL | Fully Online | Institutionally Accredited | Capstone project, complete degree in as few as 18 months |
| National Paralegal College | Phoenix, AZ | Fully Online | DEAC | Flexible pacing, 60 total credits, emphasis on legal research and writing |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA | Fully Online | SACSCOC | Faith-based, free e-textbooks, faculty with real-world experience |
| American National University | Salem, VA | Fully Online (Synchronous & Asynchronous) | ABA, DEAC | Includes all fees, textbooks, externship, Lexis+ certificate |
| Lone Star College–North Harris | Woodlands, TX | Campus-Based | Institutionally Accredited | Focus on synchronous legal specialty courses, strong local job market |
| Penn Foster | Chandler, AZ | Fully Online (Self-Paced) | DEAC | Flexible schedule, NALA exam eligibility, 69 credits total |
| University of Alaska Fairbanks | Fairbanks, AK | Fully Online with Synchronous Components | ABA | 150-hour internship, strong faculty support |
| Ashworth College | Norcross, GA | Fully Online | DEAC | 4 semesters, low-cost, flexible learning pace |
| University of Arkansas Grantham | Little Rock, AR | Fully Online | DEAC | 60 credits, strong focus on communication and ethics |
National University
https://www.nu.edu/degrees/professional-studies/programs/associate-of-science-in-paralegal-studies
San Diego, CA
The Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies at National University is an ABA-approved, fully online program designed to equip students with essential legal skills. The curriculum includes 90 quarter units, featuring 49.5 units of legal specialty courses, a 4.5-unit English for Professionals course, and at least 37.5 units of general education across multiple disciplines. Students gain hands-on experience in legal research, case analysis, document preparation, and client communication, making them valuable members of legal teams. The tuition structure is competitive, and there is no application fee or entrance exams, making the program accessible to aspiring legal professionals.
Career Outlook and Employment Opportunities
Graduates of the program are well-prepared to work as paralegals in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. With a median salary of $60,438 and nearly 42,000 job openings annually, the career outlook for paralegals is strong. While the program does not lead to law school or allow students to practice law, it provides a solid foundation for those interested in exploring the legal field or advancing their careers in law-related roles. The program also emphasizes professional ethics and communication skills, ensuring graduates meet industry standards while supporting attorneys in legal matters.
Rasmussen University
https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/justice-studies/paralegal/
Aurora, IL
The online Paralegal Certificate and Associate’s Degree programs offer flexible and accessible pathways to begin or advance a career in the legal field. Taught by practicing judges, attorneys, and paralegals, the curriculum emphasizes legal ethics and introduces students to core areas such as family law, criminal law, and civil litigation. Both programs culminate in a Paralegal Capstone, giving students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in a simulated legal environment that mirrors real-world law office experience.
Duration and Flexibility
Students can earn their Associate’s degree in as few as 18 months or complete the Paralegal Certificate in just 8 months if they already hold an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree. The training prepares graduates to work under the supervision of attorneys in law firms, courts, and government agencies, equipped with the essential skills to support legal processes effectively. These online programs are ideal for individuals seeking a career-relevant and time-efficient education in the legal field.
National Paralegal College
https://www.nationalparalegal.edu/Associates.aspx
717 E Maryland Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85014-1561
Program Overview
National Paralegal College offers an Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies designed for students seeking a strong foundation in both legal studies and general education. The program requires the completion of 60 credits, which includes 12 credits of core paralegal courses, 24 or more credits from legal specialty and advanced courses, and at least 15 general education credits in subjects such as English writing and mathematics. Students also have flexibility in choosing electives to tailor the program to their interests. The time to complete the degree varies depending on the student’s course load, and the program can serve as a direct career path or a stepping stone toward a bachelor’s degree in legal studies or business.
Practical Skills and Career Opportunities
The curriculum emphasizes practical skills and knowledge needed for entry-level paralegal work, such as legal research, writing, document preparation, and ethical practices. Graduates will be able to analyze case law, assemble legal documents, and apply critical thinking in legal scenarios. Additionally, they will develop professional communication and reasoning skills, equipping them to work in a wide variety of legal settings. The program is delivered online, offering both flexibility and a comprehensive legal education under the guidance of experienced faculty.
Liberty University
https://www.liberty.edu/online/law/associate/paralegal-studies
Lynchburg, VA
Liberty University’s online Associate of Arts (AA) in Paralegal Studies offers students a flexible, faith-based education that prepares them for meaningful roles in the legal field. This fully online program is ideal for working professionals seeking to enter or advance in the paralegal profession without attending on-campus classes. The curriculum includes studies in political and economic theory, legal systems, and free-market processes, while also teaching fundamental paralegal skills such as legal research, documentation, and case preparation. Students benefit from faculty with real-world experience in law and related specialties, helping them build a strong foundation for careers supporting attorneys in a variety of legal settings.
Affordability and Flexibility
The program is designed to be affordable and accessible, with tuition frozen for the past nine years and free electronic textbooks included for all undergraduate courses—potentially saving students up to $2,000 annually. Tuition is priced at $390 per credit for full-time students, $455 for part-time, and $250 for military students. Graduates will earn an Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies, gaining the legal and ethical knowledge necessary to perform vital paralegal functions in law firms, courts, or government agencies. The program combines professional skill development with Liberty’s mission to support students’ personal and spiritual growth.
American National University
https://an.edu/programs/associates/paralegal-associates
Salem, VA
Program Overview
American National University offers an ABA-approved, DEAC-accredited online Associate’s Degree in Paralegal Studies that provides students with the essential legal knowledge and hands-on skills to enter the paralegal profession. This flexible online program combines synchronous video sessions and asynchronous coursework, ensuring a dynamic and accessible learning experience for students anywhere. The curriculum includes in-depth instruction in legal terminology, procedural law, contract law, torts, immigration, elder law, and bankruptcy, along with training in legal document drafting, research using Lexis+, and legal ethics. Students also have the opportunity to complete an optional 120-hour externship and earn a Lexis+® Paralegal Certificate as part of their coursework.
Tuition and Career Prospects
The total cost for the associate degree is $29,900, which includes all tuition, fees, textbooks, and lab equipment, making it a transparent and competitive option compared to many other institutions. Students must complete at least nine semester credits of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction to meet ABA requirements. Upon graduation, students will be well-prepared for entry-level roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies, though they must understand that paralegals cannot offer legal services directly to the public unless permitted by law. This program is ideal for those seeking a high-quality, fully online paralegal education with a strong industry reputation.
Lone Star College–North Harris
https://www.lonestar.edu/programs-of-study/paralegal-aas.htm
The Woodlands, Texas
Program Overview
The Paralegal Studies Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree at Lone Star College–North Harris is a two-year program designed for students looking to enter the legal workforce quickly with practical skills and foundational knowledge. The curriculum prepares students to assist attorneys with legal research, document preparation, and case investigation. As part of the program, students must complete at least 9 semester credits of legal specialty (LGLA) courses through synchronous instruction, ensuring real-time interaction and engagement. This hands-on training develops core competencies in writing, reading comprehension, and legal technology, while also teaching students to prepare and review legal documents such as affidavits, contracts, and court filings.
Career Opportunities and Salary Outlook
Graduates of the program are well-equipped for entry-level paralegal roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. According to current labor market data, paralegals in the region earn a median salary of $59,805, with entry-level roles starting at $38,398 and senior-level professionals earning up to $103,016. The demand for paralegals continues to grow, with 977 annual job openings and over 8,000 currently employed in the field locally. With affordable tuition through the Lone Star College system and a direct pathway into the legal profession, this program offers a strong return on investment for aspiring legal professionals.
Penn Foster
https://www.pennfoster.edu/programs/legal/paralegal-studies-associate-degree
Chandler, AZ
The Paralegal Studies Associate Degree offered through Penn Foster’s online program is a flexible, self-paced educational path designed to prepare students for entry-level legal careers. The program consists of 4 semesters totaling 69 credits, and students can complete each semester in as few as 4 months on the fast track or around 10 months on average. The curriculum includes essential legal topics such as legal terminology, torts, civil litigation, and family law. Students gain practical skills like preparing legal paperwork, conducting legal research, and filing court documents. Upon graduation, students are eligible to sit for the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal exam, a credential that can enhance job competitiveness.
Career Pathways and Flexibility
This online program supports a variety of career pathways in legal environments such as law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments. According to national labor statistics, paralegals earn an average salary of $60,970 per year, with over 366,000 jobs available across the U.S. The Penn Foster program is tailored for flexibility, allowing learners to progress at their own pace based on their schedules. While the curriculum is based on U.S. legal standards, students are encouraged to check with their state’s licensing or certification board to ensure compliance with local requirements before enrolling.
University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF)
https://ecampus.uaf.edu/programs/associate-degrees/paralegal
Fairbanks, AK
The Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Paralegal Studies at the University of Alaska Fairbanks (UAF) is an ABA-approved program designed to equip students with the knowledge and hands-on experience needed for a career in the legal profession. The program is available fully online, with at least nine credits of synchronous instruction delivered through live video conferencing, ensuring real-time interaction and collaboration. A major highlight of the curriculum is the 150-hour internship, where students apply their classroom learning in real-world legal settings. Courses cover core topics such as civil procedure, constitutional law, legal research and writing, paralegal ethics, and technology in the legal office.
Career Opportunities and Workforce Preparation
UAF’s program prepares graduates to work as paralegals or legal assistants, performing substantive legal work under attorney supervision. The degree is ideal for those new to the legal field or currently employed paralegals looking to enhance their skills. Students benefit from experienced faculty, including attorneys, judges, and working paralegals, along with personalized academic and career support. Graduates leave the program workforce-ready, often requiring little to no additional on-the-job training, making this degree a strong stepping stone into the legal services industry.
Ashworth College
https://www.ashworthcollege.edu/associate-degrees/paralegal-studies
Norcross, Georgia
The online Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies from Ashworth College offers an affordable and flexible path to a career in the legal field, with a curriculum tailored to help students gain job-ready skills. Delivered in four semesters, the program can be completed in as little as six months per semester, making it ideal for those balancing other responsibilities. Students learn essential legal competencies such as legal research and writing, tort law, business law, contract preparation, and law office management. The program also includes access to textbooks or eBooks, academic support, online libraries, and research tools like ProQuest®, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
Career Preparation and Salary Outlook
This degree prepares graduates for entry-level paralegal roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, and other legal settings, where they may assist attorneys by conducting research, drafting documents, and managing case files. The median salary for paralegals is $60,970, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, reflecting the value and demand for these professionals. With competitive tuition, including the opportunity to take the final semester at no cost, this program offers a cost-effective route into the legal profession while allowing students to study at their own pace and on their own schedule.
University of Arkansas Grantham
https://www.uagrantham.edu/online-degrees/paralegal-studies/
Little Rock, AR
The online Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies from the University of Arkansas Grantham equips students with the foundational skills needed to support attorneys in a variety of legal environments, such as small practices, large firms, corporate legal departments, or government teams. This 60-credit hour program includes 24 core paralegal credits and 36 general education credits, and is delivered entirely online for maximum flexibility. The curriculum focuses on essential paralegal functions, such as conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, and providing limited support in interviews and investigations, all while adhering to ethical and professional standards.
Skill Development and Career Readiness
Graduates of the program will be prepared to demonstrate strong written and oral communication skills, analyze case law, and manage legal files and information efficiently. Students are trained to critically assess legal scenarios and offer solutions that support attorneys and their clients. The program is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), ensuring a quality education that meets industry standards. Upon completion, students will be well-positioned to pursue entry-level roles in the legal field, making them valuable contributors to any legal team.
Conclusion: Estimating Student Loan Repayment for a Paralegal Degree
Pursuing a two-year associate degree in paralegal studies is a strategic investment in a growing legal profession. Based on data from multiple schools, the average tuition for an online or hybrid paralegal associate degree is approximately $18,000.
According to national salary data, the average starting salary for paralegals is $45,000 per year.
Here’s how long it would take to repay an $18,000 student loan based on different percentages of your annual income dedicated solely to loan repayment:
| Percentage of Income Used | Annual Payment | Estimated Repayment Time |
|---|---|---|
| 5% of $45,000 | $2,250 | 8 years |
| 10% of $45,000 | $4,500 | 4 years |
| 15% of $45,000 | $6,750 | 2.7 years |
| 20% of $45,000 | $9,000 | 2 years |
These estimates do not include interest, which may slightly extend the repayment period depending on the loan terms. Still, even with conservative budgeting, graduates who dedicate 10–20% of their starting income toward loan repayment can pay off their debt in under four years.
For motivated individuals seeking a fast and affordable path to a legal career, a paralegal associate degree offers strong return on investment and job-ready skills in a growing field.