Best in State: Top Bachelor's Degree Programs in Paralegal Studies
Maybe you’re looking at a bachelor’s degree in legal studies as a stepping stone to an advanced law degree with the end goal being to cement your future as a partner at a law firm… Maybe you’re taking the hint from industry standards bearers and the legal community at large that a bachelor’s provides the best preparation for the demands being placed on paralegals today– in fact, in the bigger metro areas where competition is fierce for jobs with the world’s most powerful firms, you’re wise to look at a 4-year degree as the de facto requirement if you want your resume getting more than a passing glance.
Whatever career goal brought you here, you’re likely wrestling with the same questions as everybody else combing the internet in search of a bachelor’s program that has it all: everything you need to go on to earn national certification and to ready yourself for the career ahead… a school with strong ties to the local legal community and just as strong a reputation with employers in the area… and some bang for your buck so you can feel good knowing that whatever loans you’ll need to take out, it’s more than worth it for the education you’re signing up for.
How We Selected the Best Paralegal Bachelor’s Programs
How do you really assess the quality of one bachelor’s program against another in a field without universally recognized education standards or required exams? Painstakingly.
We set out with an ambitious goal to review every bachelor’s degree program out there for paralegals, other legal professionals, and pre-law students. Sure – we could’ve short-cut the process by leaning solely on things like AAfPE membership or ABA-approval, but we felt prospective students needed a look at the entire educational landscape before committing their hard earned dollars and the next four years of their lives. So we went big and looked at every school in the U.S. that holds accreditation from an accrediting body recognized by the Department of Education. That’s some 130 schools nationwide.
We knew we wanted this lengthy assessment process to result in something more than just a run down of all the big names in higher education. We wanted to provide prospective students all over the country with something really useful to their search for the best option in their area. We believe the only way to really pull this off is to look at what’s going on in the legal field in different parts of the country.
Naturally, there’s a common set of paralegal specialty courses you’re going to find in any bachelor’s program – things like legal research and writing, and courses in areas like family law, torts, and litigation are pretty much a given. But beyond that, colleges and universities have historically developed curriculum to align with the demands and expectations of the local legal community – a small town law office in rural America doesn’t always have the same demands as an international firm headquartered in Manhattan.
The solution then is to look at each program as it compares to others in the immediate area to see how each one stacks up to their competitors. Even within a state, we recognize that the legal environment isn’t always the same from place to place, so we looked to identify the program that we felt shined so bright among the other local options that it could easily be held up as an example of how to go above and beyond. We then crowned what we felt was the one clear winner in each state.
Sponsored Listings
State-by-State Analysis of the Best Bachelor’s Programs for Paralegals
So here’s the results of our in-depth comparative analysis for 2021 – our pick for the best bachelor’s programs in legal studies/paralegal studies found in each state.
This list features programs that our editorial staff hand selected to present as top recommendations. We believe the many aspects of a program that come together to create an exceptional student experience can’t be reduced to numbers alone, so no formula was used to attempt to score or rank these programs. Instead, they represent our top picks based on a thoughtful review of the things we know mean the most to students. Each one of these programs offers something unique, and all come equally highly recommended. We stand behind the principal of editorial integrity and make these recommendations independently and without compensation.
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $290 (on-campus), $345 (online)
Provides Valuable Field Experience by Including an Internship as Part of the Curriculum
Offers Opportunities for Advanced Study with Masters of Law and Juris Doctor Programs
Promotes Educational Excellence by Requiring a Student Portfolio
Fosters Diversity with a Student Body Made Up of 35 Different Nationalities
Promotes Character-Building and Civic Responsibility with Undergraduate Volunteer Requirements
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Faulkner University offers the best for aspiring paralegals interested in studying law in a biblical context: An ABA-approved BS in Legal Studies program, complete with a supervised internship experience, expert faculty with years of professional legal experience, legal ethics taught through the Christian worldview, and access to the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law’s outstanding resources, which include the Faulkner Law legal clinics. In addition to the fantastic learning opportunities the internship provides, students here also complete a paralegal portfolio, designed to showcase learning, achievement, and development. This kind of focus on student outcomes, in the sense of both academics and character-building, really makes Faulkner stand out from the crowd.
ALASKA
University of Alaska Anchorage UAA Justice Center Anchorage, Alaska Website
Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies, Minor in Legal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $185-$244 (Alaska resident), $698-$757 (non-resident)
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship, and Volunteer Opportunities that Result in Pro Bono Service Honors
Demonstrates a Commitment to Student Outcomes with an Exit Exam Requirement
Offers Exceptional Student Services, Including Pre-Law Advising
Diverse Electives, Including Options Relevant to Legal Work in Alaska, Like Aviation Law, Tribal Courts and Native Rights, Among Many Others
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Complete the BA or Minor in Legal Studies at the University of Alaska Anchorage and you’ll have access to a comprehensive course of education in American law and policy that will prepare you to take on legal support positions in area law offices, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. Students here get a world class ABA-approved, four-year course of study that includes a Civic Engagement Internship designed to provide you with real-world experience applying principles of civic engagement to a community-identified problem. Complete your bachelor’s degree program at the University of Alaska Anchorage and you’ll be part of a dynamic student body of more than 20,000. And did we mention the affordable tuition rates for Alaska residents? As low as $20,000 for four years of study!
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies and Litigation Technologies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $498
Provides a path to National Certification: National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal (CP) Exam Prep and CP Exam Delivery Included in the Curriculum
Provides a Strong Focus on Experiential Learning with State of the Art ELSSA™ E-Discovery Simulation Lab
Offers an Online Option Without Compromising Classmate and Faculty Interactions, Delivering Courses Via the DeXL (Dynamic Experiential Learning Model) Platform
Contemporary and Relevant Curriculum Covers Legal Technology Including Litigation Software and E-Discovery Applications
World Class Student Support and Career Assistance Services through the Career Services Department
Demonstrates Long-term Commitment to the Success of Graduates by Offering the Option to Audit Courses Previously Completed for Free
Bryan University’s esteemed BS in Paralegal Studies and Litigation Technologies, developed in collaboration with the university’s Board of Advisors, is designed to connect students to industry by providing them with the skills that today’s employers are looking for. We love that this program includes preparation for NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) exam as part of the curriculum, something that is exceptionally beneficial to students but rarely found in bachelor’s program. Add to that the program’s dynamic online learning model that allows students to complete all coursework from the comfort of home while still getting the benefits that come with interacting with instructors and peers, and the university’s ELSSA simulation lab, designed to challenge students with real-world scenarios as a primer for practical expertise, and you have a student experience that should serve as a model for all contemporary paralegal bachelor’s program. This distance-based program is designed with the success of students in mind, giving you access to one-on-one coaching meetings with instructors, and a flexible learning model designed to fit any student’s schedule and learning style.
ARKANSAS
University of Arkansas Little Rock Legal Studies Department Little Rock, Arkansas Website
Minor in Legal Studies (Pre-Law)
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $314 (Arkansas resident), $714 (non-resident)
Offers the Flexibility of an Online Option
Offers a Unique Opportunity for Networking, Enrichment and Camaraderie through the UALR Pre-Law Society
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Juris Doctor Through the William H. Bowen School of Law
Exceptional Career Assistance and Student Support Services with a Decided Focus on Employment and Free Refresher Classes Available to Alumni
A fully online course of study just the beginning of what the Minor in Legal Studies at the University of Arkansas Little Rock offers aspiring legal support professionals, including those interested in going on to study law at the advanced level and become attorneys themselves. Thanks to the interdisciplinary design of the Legal Studies minor, this pre-law program is the ideal addition to any number of undergraduate degrees available at the university for students interested in a better understanding of the legal environment in which businesses, nonprofits and government agencies operate. Complete your degree program here and you’ll enjoy being part of a major metropolitan research university that boasts more than 11,000 students and a reputation for being a leader in technology transfer, economic development, and job creation. Plus, students of this undergrad minor are afforded many of the resources of the university’s William H. Bowen School of Law. UA offers far and away the highest quality legal studies student experience in the area.
CALIFORNIA
John F. Kennedy University College of Law Pleasant Hill, California Website
Bachelor of Arts Completion Program in Legal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $300-$485
Offers Valuable Field Experience with an Internship Opportunity
Contemporary and Relevant Curriculum Covers Legal Technology Including Litigation Software and E-Discovery Applications
Provides a Decided Focus on Success in the Business World With Curriculum that Includes Business Communication and Critical Thinking in Law and Business
Promotes Character-Building and Social Responsibility with Service Learning and a Course in Law and Social Justice Built into the Curriculum
Exceptional Career Assistance and Student Support Services, Including Guidance on Resume Writing and Interview Skills as Part of the Internship
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Juris Doctor
Holds ABA-Approval Status
John F. Kennedy University’s ABA-approved bachelor’s program is the only one of it’s kind in Northern California, making it a clear choice for anybody in the area serious about a career-focused undergraduate degree in legal studies. This Bachelor of Arts Completion Program comes complete with an optional internship and the ability to select courses in important areas like immigration, environmental law, real estate law or criminal law as a way to custom tailor the educational experience. As a graduate of JFKU, your highly marketable credentials will include the bachelor’s degree and an additional Paralegal Certificate. John F. Kennedy University is also tops when it comes to student services, offering small class sizes, experienced faculty (many of whom are lawyers and judges), and plenty of opportunities to gain real-world experience, thanks to faculty-led court appearances and law clinic visits. If you’re looking for an exceptional educational experience in Northern California that provides exceptional value and a highly relevant curriculum with a strong focus on business and technology, John F. Kennedy University should be your number one choice.
COLORADO
United States Air Force Academy Department of Law USAF Academy, Colorado Website
Legal Studies Major
Tuition is free to qualified cadets in return for a commitment to serve as an officer in the U.S. Air Force (length of commitment depends on career path and other opportunities). The strict eligibility standards for this program include being a U.S. citizen or authorized international student, between the ages of 17 and 23, unmarried with no dependents, and having a strong academic record (classroom performance, class rank and GPA) and competitive SAT/ACT scores.
Promotes Academic Excellence and Strength of Character with a Core Curriculum that Includes 29 Dean of Faculty Courses, Military and Physical Training Programs, in Addition to 14 Legal Studies Courses
Highly Relevant and Contemporary Curriculum Covers Cyberlaw, Business Law, International Law and More
Mock Trial Team and the Moot Court Team Provides Immersive Learning and Promotes Cooperative Teamwork through Competitive Events Cadets Love
The United States Air Force Academy’s history of and commitment to excellence is apparent—not only with the caliber of graduates it produces but also for its recognition as a leader among U.S. colleges and universities. In fact, in 2017, Forbes ranked the Academy third in the nation among public colleges and fifth among U.S. STEM colleges. Earn a spot at this university as a cadet and Legal Studies major and you’ll be immersed in a program that allows you to build expertise in the study of U.S. and international law. Coursework in this comprehensive program is interdisciplinary, with 29 Dean of Faculty courses drawing from the Departments of Behavioral Science and Leadership, Economics and Geosciences, and History, among others. A legal studies capstone rounds out the Legal Studies major, providing students with the opportunity to hone their communication and analytical skills while working on complex legal issues. This four-year course of study has produced graduates who have gone on to Pilot and Navigator training, as well as to many other career fields within the USAF, including intelligence and communications, special investigations security forces, and acquisitions. We are big fans of the Academy’s Mock Trial Team and the Moot Court Team, both of which provide cadets with a unique educational experience while allowing them to compete against other universities and colleges.
CONNECTICUT
University of New Haven Henry C. Lee College of Criminal Justice and Forensic Science West Haven, Connecticut Website
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, Paralegal Studies Concentration
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $1,225
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Two-Semester Internship
Contemporary and Highly Relevant Curriculum Options Including Cyberlaw and Several Concentration Electives
Offers an International Track with Study Abroad Opportunities
Provides Exceptional Career Assistance and Student Support Services through the Nationally Acclaimed Career Development Center
Provides Unsurpassed Opportunities for Networking, Enrichment and Camaraderie with the Option to Live in the Pre-Law Living Learning Community
The University of New Haven’s BS in Legal Studies with a Paralegal Studies Concentration features an interdisciplinary foundation on which aspiring and practicing paralegals can build both their theoretical knowledge and practical skills. There’s plenty of reasons why this program clinched the top spot for our favorite program in Connecticut, including a two-semester internship, an international track option, designed to allow you to study abroad for a semester, and the nationally recognized Center for Career Development, recently named on of the best in the nation by The Princeton Review for its outstanding student services, including on-campus interviews, career assessments, networking opportunities, and job shadowing. Few programs anywhere in the U.S. provide students with an educational experience on this level.
DELAWARE
Widener University Delaware Law School Wilmington, Delaware Website
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $1,500
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship and Internship Prep as Part of the Curriculum
Offers the Flexibility and Convenience of a Hybrid Option, Evening Classes and Part-Time Scheduling
Option to Earn a Paralegal Certificate of Completion in One of Several Concentrations at No Additional Cost: Criminal, Corporate, Health, Estate Administration or Intellectual Property Law or Litigation
Diverse Course Offerings in Quantitative Areas of Criminal Justice and Psychology Not Found in Other Programs
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Master of Law and Juris Doctor through the Delaware Law School
Holds ABA-Approval Status
The esteemed Widener University of Delaware Law School doesn’t just produce world-renowned attorneys; this is the place to go to become a skilled and highly valued paralegal too. In addition to being housed in an acclaimed law school, there are plenty of other reasons why earning your Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies here just makes good sense: ABA approval, hybrid course delivery, and the ability to earn a paralegal certificate in a variety of legal specialties. To accommodate the scheduling needs of all students, this program can be completed on a full- or part-time basis, with a format allows students to attend classes in the day, evening, and even online. We love the fantastic internship and externship opportunities afforded to students here, along with practicum opportunities through one of the school’s clinical programs. Plus, complete your bachelor’s degree here and you’ll have the opportunity to earn a paralegal studies certificate of completion (at no extra cost!) in criminal law, corporate law, litigation, health law, estate administration law, or intellectual property law.
FLORIDA
Nova Southeastern University Department of Justice and Human Services Fort Lauderdale, Florida Website
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $1,303
Offers the Flexibility of a Hybrid Option
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Provides Opportunities for Networking, Enrichment and Camaraderie as Home of the Local Chapter of the National Honor Society, Lambda Epsilon Chi
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Juris Doctor through the Shepard Broad College of Law
Exceptional Faculty Made Up of Florida Licensed Attorneys and Judges
Offers Contemporary and Highly Relevant Curriculum that Covers Legal Software Used in Area Firms
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Nova Southeastern University is where paralegals and aspiring paralegals go to become leaders and change makers in their field. As a student here, you’ll have access to the College of Law’s authentic courtrooms, where you can participate in mock trials and meet visiting judges and legal analysts. And before you graduate, you’ll submit a paralegal portfolio and sit for an exit interview with the program coordinator, so you can be sure you’re ready to enter the job market with the confidence it takes to impress any hiring committee. The prestige and assurance of quality that comes with an ABA-approved course of study, an internship built into the curriculum and close ties to the local legal community, and access to the outstanding resources and world class faculty within Nova Southeastern’s College of Law – these are just a few of the reasons why graduates of this program are poised for success.
GEORGIA
No listings for Georgia at this time.
IDAHO
Lewis-Clark State College Business Technology and Service Lewiston, Idaho Website
Bachelor of Applied Science Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $211 (Idaho resident), $613 (non-resident)
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship (Both a cooperative project you’ll participate in as a program requirement, and an elective internship option)
Offers Exceptional Value as the Lowest Cost Program of its Kind in Idaho
Lewis-Clark State College offers a big league education in a small community with a small student body that assures the kind of individualized attention undergrads need to be successful, and the stats don’t lie: LCSC had a student body of fewer than 4,000 students and an outstanding student to faculty ratio – just 14 students for every professor. This leading western institution boasts small class sizes, a picturesque campus, and the lowest in-state tuition among all four-year public institutions in Idaho. The Bachelor of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies reflects the university’s commitment to excellence and builds off the AAS Paralegal Program, so admission into this program requires either the completion of this associate degree program or prior work experience.
ILLINOIS
Roosevelt University College of Arts and Sciences Chicago, Illinois Website
Bachelor in Paralegal Studies
Also Offers a Minor in Paralegal Studies (not intended to prepare students to work as paralegals)
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $797-$994
Contemporary and Relevant Curriculum Covers Legal Technology Including Litigation Software and E-Discovery Applications
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Required Internship, and an Additional Internship Elective
Offers the Flexibility of Online and Hybrid Options Through the Flex-Track Program
Provides Exceptional Career Assistance Services Including Lifetime Career Development Assistance, Advising, Workshops and Access to Job Boards
Maintains Student Performance Standards by Requiring a ‘C’ Grade or Better in All Paralegal Courses
Diverse Electives Including Special Education Law
Holds ABA-Approval Status
A fantastic Chicago setting is just the beginning of what Roosevelt University’s Bachelor in Paralegal Studies offers both aspiring paralegals and practicing paralegals looking to build on their competencies and knowledge. In fact, thanks to the college’s Flex-Track program, you can earn your bachelor’s faster than you might have thought thanks to a unique combination of online and on-campus courses that follow an accelerated format. We love this program for a variety of reasons, including its emphasis on career-long alumni career assistance and support services, hands-on training, along with the experienced attorneys and paralegals that teach the classes. It’s clear – Roosevelt’s bachelor’s in paralegal studies has it all.
INDIANA
Indiana State University Terre Haute, Indiana Website
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Deeply Immersive Program Includes Trips to the US Supreme Court in DC and the Indiana Court of Appeals
Contemporary and Highly Relevant Directed Research Projects in Media, Gender and Decision-Making, Judicial Selection and More
Offers Study Abroad Opportunities
The BS in Legal Studies through Indiana State University has everything you need to enter the job market with the preferred credentials, advance in your current position, or even prepare for law school. The curriculum in this pre-law program, which was developed in accordance with ABA guidelines for legal education and admission to the bar, comes together in an interdisciplinary program that involves substantive legal study while also fostering the development of the kind of practical skills any pre-law student or legal support professional needs to make it in the real world environment of a law office – things like communication and writing skills, legal research skills, and even reading comprehension and critical thinking skills. In addition to the major research project you’ll be involved in, this program will give you the opportunity to get your feet wet with an internship in a local law office or district court. There are even study abroad opportunities at ISU, something rarely available to legal studies students. Thinking about law school? This program also offers practice LSAT sessions each fall to make sure you’re primed and ready.
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $669 (on-campus), $402-$669 (online)
Designed as a Connected Degree Program (2+2 Program), Providing a Seamless Transition for Students with a Paralegal Associate’s Degree
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Provides the Flexibility of Online, Evening, and Weekend Courses; Program is also offered in an Accelerated Format with Classes Meeting Evenings and Alternate Saturdays
Allows Students to Specialize in Business & Human Resource Management, Criminology or Public Administration
Program May Also be Designed as a Pre-Law Pathway to Better Prepare Students to Take the LSAT and Enter Law School
Exceptional Track Record of Student Success with a 98% Employment/Graduate Study Rate Among Graduates
Grand View University offers a unique, 2+2 Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies program that allows students with a paralegal associate degree to build upon their education, advance their career, increase their earning potential, and pursue graduate work if desired. There are plenty of reasons to love this program, including its flexible coursework delivery (take courses in the day, evening, weekend, or online), its graduate success rate (98 percent of all graduates are employed in their field or pursuing graduate studies within six months of graduation), and the option for students to use the program as a Pre-Law Pathway, which involves taking specific coursework and completing training and internships to better prepare for the LSAT and entry into law school. We also love that this program allows students to specialize their bachelor’s degree by choosing a concentration in Business & Human Resource Management, Criminology, or Public Administration.
KANSAS
Washburn University Department of Criminal Justice & Legal Studies Topeka, Kansas Website
Bachelor of Legal Studies
Cost Per Credit: $281 (resident), $636 (non-resident)
Residents of Colorado, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas pay resident tuition rates
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a JD, MSL, LLM in Global Legal Studies, JD/MBA, JD/MSW Through the Washburn University School of Law
Maintains Student Performance Standards by Requiring a ‘C’ Grade or Better in All Courses
Provides Valuable Experience in the Form of an Internship
Provides Exceptional Career Services for Students and Alumni
Contemporary and Relevant Curriculum Includes Diversity in American Culture, the Judicial Process, Communication in the Legal Process, and Technology & Society, Among Other
A beautiful, urban campus in the heart of Topeka, a student-faculty ratio of just 15:1, a faculty of doctoral-prepared professionals (no graduate teaching assistants), and a variety of on-campus student services, including tutoring, study centers, and the First Year Experience program to ensure the success of its students are just a few of the reasons why pursuing the Bachelor of Legal Studies through Washburn University is a smart choice for the aspiring or practicing paralegal. We also love the many correlate courses offered here as part of the curriculum, including Diversity in American culture, the Judicial Process, Communication in the Legal Process, and Technology & Society, among many others. Plus, complete your bachelor’s degree here and you’ll enjoy a variety of career services, available to both students and alumni, including job search preparation resources and alumni services.
KENTUCKY
Eastern Kentucky University Richmond, Kentucky Website
Bachelor of Arts Paralegal Science
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $409
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Intensive, Immersive Residency
Offers the flexibility of a Hybrid Option with All but 10-Credit Hours Offered Online
Committed to Educational Excellence as a Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
Provides Exceptional Networking and Enrichment Opportunities Though Membership with the Lambda Epsilon Chi Honor Society
Exceptional Faculty All Hold Advanced Degrees In Law
Offers Exceptional Career Assistance Services
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Eastern Kentucky University’s BA in Paralegal Science boasts a unique hybrid course delivery format designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals. But don’t let the convenience fool you: this program is taught by the same instructors who teach the campus-based courses at the university. Graduates at EKU complete the program more than qualified to sit for the Certified Kentucky Paralegal Exam and national exams, including NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) exam. This program also features a two-week, on-campus residency that involves working with attorneys and judges, access to the courthouse vault and law library, and a series of courses covering legal research and writing, ethics, and strategies for a successful job search. Plus, while on campus, students will have plenty of opportunities to meet with sitting judges in the courtroom, collaborate with fellow students, and interact with faculty.
LOUISIANA
There are currently no qualifying paralegal bachelor’s degree programs in Louisiana. We encourage you to consider any of the programs shown here offering an online option, or programs in neighboring states.
MAINE
Husson University School of Legal Studies Bangor, Maine Website
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $570
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Well Connected to the Local Legal Community, with Students Interning at District Courts and Dozens of Law Offices
Committed to Educational Excellence as a Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
Provides Exceptional Networking and Enrichment Opportunities Though Membership with the Lambda Epsilon Chi Honor Society and Husson’s Paralegal Club
Provides Elective Focus Courses in Contemporary and Relevant Areas Like Cyber Law, Social Media Law and Ethics, Elder Law, First Amendment Law and More
Husson University’s BS in Paralegal Studies is Maine’s top program for producing competent paralegals for today’s modern legal environment. This intensive, four-year course of study provides students with everything they need to serve as trusted members of the legal team, including full access to the online resource, Westlaw, an internship experience, and on-site visits to courts, law offices, law libraries, and the Registry of Deeds. Just a few of the spots where students of Husson University land internships include Bangor District Court, the Assistant Attorney General’s Office, the Aroostook County District Attorney’s Office, and Congressman Michael Michaud. Few schools can claim to be as connected to the local legal community as Husson, something that should catch the attention of any prospective student.
MARYLAND
Stevenson University School of Humanities and Social Sciences Stevenson, Maryland Website
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
Also offers a Legal Studies Minor
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $1,101
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Two-Part Internship
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Master of Science in Legal Studies
Offers Exceptional Career Assistance Services with Personalized Guidance from the Career Success Team
Pre-Law Students Have Access to the University’s Pre-Law Advising Services
Offers a BS/MS Option that Allows Students to Earn Credits Applicable Toward a Master’s During the Bachelor’s Program
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Offers a Highly Competitive Optional Credential with the Professional Minor in Real Estate
Stevenson University’s Legal Studies program serves as both a springboard to law school and a career as a paralegal. It was the first in the state and one of the first in the nation to earn ABA approval, and today, the university holds the distinction of having the only ABA-approved bachelor’s degree program in paralegal education in Maryland. We love the flexibility that this program offers, as students here can either choose an Internship emphasis to focus on developing the skills needed to become a paralegal or advance in the profession, or a Pre-Law option to focus on acing the LSAT and getting into law school.
MASSACHUSETTS
Bay Path University Legal Studies Department Longmeadow, Massachusetts Website
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
Also offers a Legal Studies Minor
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $1,140
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Juris Doctor through Western New England University School of Law, Offering a Unique 3+3 Program that Streamlines the Transition
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Provides Exceptional Career Guidance Through the University’s Career Development Center and a Career Strategy Course Included in the Curriculum
Offers Contemporary and Relevant Curriculum, Including a Course in Women in Leadership
Bay Path University’s BA/BS in Legal Studies Through the American Women’s College is an ABA-approved, four-year course of study that allows students to earn not only their bachelor’s degree, but also a Certificate of Advanced Paralegal Studies upon graduation. But that’s not all—complete an internship during your program and you’ll be armed with practical experience that will make the transition from the classroom to the courtroom (or law office or other legal setting) a breeze. Plus, if you have aspirations of going to law school, the university offers the 3+3 Program, a partnership between Bay Path University and the Western New England University of Law designed to streamline the transition.
MICHIGAN
Madonna University Department of Paralegal Studies Livonia, Michigan Website
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $690
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Offers the Flexibility of Being Able to Take All General Courses Online
Exceptional Track Record for Career Preparation with a 95% Employment Rate Among Graduates
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Services Through the Career Development Office
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Madonna University has a proven track record for producing highly employable paralegals that are in high demand in the state’s law offices, corporate legal departments, government agencies and district courts. In fact, 95 percent of all graduates are employed after graduation. This program holds ABA legacy status among schools in the area, with ABA-approval dating back to 1984. This program also offers unmatched flexibility, as students here can take all courses online other than the 10 legal specialty credits, which must be delivered on campus in keeping with ABA requirements. Don’t let the convenient delivery option give you the wrong idea, though; all courses are taught by a world class faculty made up of expert paralegals and attorneys with years of experience in the field.
MINNESOTA
Hamline University Legal Studies Department Saint Paul, Minnesota Website
Bachelor of Science Legal Studies
Also offers a Legal Studies Minor (not intended to prepare paralegals)
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $1,342
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Practicum/Apprenticeship
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Juris Doctor through the Mitchell/Hamline School of Law
Provides Opportunities for Immersive Learning, Enrichment and Camaraderie Through the Hamline Mock Trial Team, Including Mock Trial Tournaments and Mock Trial Camp
Study Abroad Opportunities Available
Offers Exceptional Career Assistance Services Through the Career Development Center
Committed to Long Term Success Among Graduates with Continuing Education Opportunities for Alumni
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Juris Doctor through the Mitchell Hamline School of Law, Offering a Unique 3+3 Program that Streamlines the Transition
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Hamline University’s BS in Legal Studies is a fantastic program for aspiring or practicing paralegals, and just as great an option for pre-law students. Anyone here with their sites set on taking the LSAT and practicing law is encouraged to select an additional major or minor in areas of interest that would support career goals, whether in Women’s Studies, or Business, or Global Studies, or Environmental Studies, among many other options offered at Hamline. If a career providing legal support services is the game plan for you, you’ll complete the program with a paralegal certificate and a bachelor’s, something that is as valuable to your career as it is to presenting a strong résumé. We’re big fans of this program for many reasons, but we are particularly fond of the university’s mock trial—an opportunity to explore the courtroom dynamic, up close and personal. We also love their Career Development Center, which provides students with opportunities to craft their résumé, hone their job search strategies, and peruse the latest internships and job openings.
MISSISSIPPI
Mississippi College Department of History and Political Science Clinton, Mississippi Website
Bachelor of Science Paralegal Studies
Also offers a Paralegal Studies Minor
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $546
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Offers the Flexibility of an Online Option
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Through the Office of Career Services
Provides Immersive Learning, Enrichment and Camaraderie Through the MC Mock Trial Club
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Masters of Law and Juris Doctor through Mississippi College Law
Exceptional Faculty Actively Involved in Contributing Research and Literature
Mississippi College’s Department of History and Political Science offers a host of undergraduate law programs, including the BS in Paralegal Studies and the Minor in Paralegal Studies, both of which prepare students to become valued members of the legal team through a comprehensive course of study in the law and paralegal profession. In addition to the excellent student services offered through Mississippi College, the state’s leading, private Christian university, students here also enjoy the resources and superb faculty of MC Law. Both the BS in Paralegal Studies and the Minor in Paralegal Studies can be completed completely online, if desired, which is a convenient option for students with geographical limitations or professional obligations. In addition to an internship, which provides students with the opportunity to get real-world experience at law offices, corporate legal departments, and government agencies, the school’s Career Services Office offers job placement guidance, thereby making the transition from the academic environment to the legal environment a smooth one.
MISSOURI
Maryville University College of Arts and Sciences St. Louis, Missouri Website
Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies – Paralegal Studies concentration
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $869
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Required Internship Included in the Curriculum
Offers the Flexibility of Evening Courses and General Courses that Can Be Taken Online
Committed to Educational Excellence as a Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Offers Exceptional Career Assistance Services Through the Office of Career Success & Professional Development
Maryville University knows a thing or two about producing competent, well-qualified paralegals. Case in point: their Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies with a Paralegal Studies concentration boasts a comprehensive course of study, including an opportunity to complete a paralegal internship experience and produce a portfolio that showcases your work. Maryville’s BS in Legal Studies also accommodates today’s busy working professionals by offering flexible scheduling options, which includes both day and evening classes, as well as a number of online courses. Complete your bachelor’s degree here and you’ll be part of an established university that features more than 90 degree programs and a job placement rate of 97 percent. Maryville has a long standing reputation in the local legal community for producing graduates who are skilled and ready for the job.
MONTANA
University of Providence Legal and Paralegal Studies Great Falls, Montana Website
Bachelor of Science in Legal and Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $790
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Required Internship as Part of the Curriculum
Offers the Flexibility of Weekend Classes and General Courses Available Online
Maintains a Partnership with the US Army and Air Force to Offer Active Service Members Discounted Tuition for Military-Specific Paralegal Programs
Provides Tuition at Half Cost for Providence St. Joseph Caregivers, their Spouses and Dependents
Offers Exceptional Student Support Services, Including the Four-Year Graduation Guarantee Program
Offers Exceptional Career Counseling Services Through the Providence Career Center and IMPACT Program
Holds ABA-Approval Status
The University of Providence is committed to producing only the best paralegal professionals, which is why their BS in Legal and Paralegal Studies includes a truly comprehensive course of study that is worthy of qualifying for the highly esteemed ABA approval status only granted to the best of the best. We also love the flexibility that this program affords, as it maximizes distance learning opportunities while also satisfying the ten traditional classroom credits needed to maintain ABA approval. Complete your program at the University of Providence and you’ll enjoy their unique semester schedule, which includes attending three weekend classes per semester for three semesters.
NEBRASKA
College of Saint Mary Legal Studies Omaha, Nebraska Website
Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $665
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Semester-Long Internship Included in the Curriculum
Provides Opportunities for Networking, Enrichment and Camaraderie Through the Student Paralegal Association
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Services Through the CSMAdvantage Program, and Achievement and Career Services Centers
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Juris Doctor through the Creighton University School of Law, Offering a Unique 3+3 Program that Streamlines the Transition
Holds ABA-Approval Status
The College of Saint Mary provides aspiring or practicing paralegals with everything they need to be welcomed into a law firm, district court or corporate legal department as a trusted legal support professional. As the region’s only ABA approved bachelor’s degree program, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive course of study that maximizes both theory and practical experience. Plus, if you have aspirations of attending law school, this program also serves as an excellent pre-law track, providing you with everything you need to ace the LSAT. Complete your program here and you’ll get to learn from a faculty made up of practicing attorneys, while also getting valuable real-world experience through a semester-long internship in a law firm, corporate legal department, government agency, or nonprofit legal services organization.
NEW JERSEY
Montclair State University Justice Studies Department Montclair, New Jersey Website
Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies – Paralegal Studies Concentration
Also offers a minor in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $360 (New Jersey resident), $630 (non-resident)
Provides Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Contemporary and Relevant Curriculum Covers Legal Computer Applications
Allows Students to Choose From Criminal Justice Electives in Contemporary and Currently Relevant Areas Like Race and the US Legal System, While Collar Crimes, Bilingual Skills and Much More
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Services Through the Center for Advising & Student Transitions (CAST), Peer Advisor Services, and the Montclair Career Development Team
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Montclair State University’s bachelor’s program in justice studies emphasize both theory and practice in a number of areas, such as criminal law, family law, corporate law, and civil litigation. Whether you choose to focus your major in Justice Studies through the Paralegal Studies Concentration or major in another area of study and complete the Paralegal Studies minor concurrently, you can be sure you’re preparing yourself to become a valued member of the legal team. In addition to an ABA-approved course of study and the inclusion of a senior seminar and internship, Montclair offers paralegal studies students the best in career preparation through its Career Development Team.
NEW YORK
Hilbert College Paralegal Studies Hamburg, New York Website
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $725
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship Included in the Curriculum
Offers the Flexibility of Hybrid Course Delivery and Evening Classes
Low Student to Faculty Ratio Demonstrates Hilbert’s Commitment to Providing an Individualized Education Experience with Lots of Instructor Interaction
Committed to Educational Excellence as a Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
Provides Opportunities for Networking, Enrichment and Camaraderie as Home of the Local Chapter of the National Honor Society, Lambda Epsilon Chi
Promotes Networking and Continuing Education Opportunities by Encouraging Students to Join the Western New York Paralegal Association (WNYPA), a Local Affiliate of the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA)
Holds ABA-Approval Status
As the first and longest running paralegal studies program in Western New York, Hilbert College’s BS in Legal Studies has really refined and perfected undergraduate paralegal studies. This is partly evident in the fact that Hilbert’s BS in Legal Studies holds the esteemed and hard-won ABA approval status. This program allows students to choose a concentration based on their career objectives, in areas like business/corporate law, child and family law, litigation, and research and writing. Plus, the coursework of this program is supplemented with real-world experience, thanks to the required internship. There’s also plenty of other reasons to love this program: a faculty of practicing attorneys and paralegals; a 14:1 student-professor ratio; and flexible scheduling options, including day, evening, hybrid, and online options.
NORTH CAROLINA
Methodist University Justice Studies Fayetteville, North Carolina Website
Minor in Legal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $1,083
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a 120-Contact Hour Internship Included in the Curriculum
Offers the Flexibility of Being Able to Take General Courses Online
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Services with Dedicated Career Services Staff
Meets Requirements for the North Carolina Bar Association Paralegal Certification Exam
Helps Facilitate National Certification with Curriculum Designed Around the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) Certified Paralegal (CP) Exam
Holds ABA-Approval Status
ABA approval, hybrid course delivery, and an independent study experience are just a few of the reasons why completing the Minor in Legal Studies through Methodist University just makes good sense for anybody in Fayetteville and the surrounding area. Plus, if you have aspirations of attending law school and going on to practice law, this program provides you with the preparation you need. We also love this school’s extensive Career Services within the Office of Student Affairs, as it provides outstanding career services and resources for both students and alumni.
OHIO
University of Toledo Legal Studies Toledo, Ohio Website
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
University of Toledo Also Offers: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies, Legal Specialties Minor, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Paralegal Studies, and Nurse Paralegal Certificate
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $268 (Ohio resident), $579 (non-resident)
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Provides Immersive Learning Experiences with the State-of-the-Art Teaching Courtroom
Focus on Experiential Learning with a Criminal Forensics and Trial Practices Class
Provides Unsurpassed Opportunities for Networking, Enrichment, Camaraderie and Competition by Joining the Mock Trial Team
Exceptional Faculty Made up of Judges and Lawyers
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Juris Doctor through the Toledo College of Law and Facilitates the Transition with a Guarantee that All Students with a 3.5 Minimum GPA and LSAT Scores in the Top 50% Will Be Admitted
Outstanding Track Record for Pre-Law Students with a 93% First Time Pass Rate on the Bar Exam
Holds ABA-Approval Status
A world class undergraduate education in paralegal studies is yours through the University of Toledo. In addition to holding the universally recognized and respected ABA approval status, the university’s BS in Paralegal Studies is one of the only programs to have its own teaching courtroom—a state-of-the-art facility that offers hands-on training in courtroom technology. What’s more is that this nationally acclaimed program has served as a model for many other programs in the U.S. If you have aspirations of going on to law school and maintain a GPA of 3.5 or better in this four-year program and score in the top 50 percent on the LSAT, you are guaranteed admission to the University of Toledo College of Law. All students in the BS program complete an internship, and many receive job offers from their internship employers.
OKLAHOMA
East Central University College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences Ada, Oklahoma Website
Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $240 (resident), $544 (non-resident)
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship Included in the Curriculum
Provides Access to Political Science and Law Related Electives in Unique Areas Like Business Communication, Accounting, Argumentation, Interviewing and Much More
Committed to Educational Excellence as a Member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)
Provides Opportunities for Networking, Enrichment and Camaraderie Through Membership with the National Honor Society, Lambda Epsilon Chi, and the Local Legal Professions Association (LPA), which Partners with the Pontotoc County Bar Association to Sponsor the Annual Event, EDU Law Day
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Whether you want to prepare for your first job as a paralegal or advance in your current paralegal role, the BS in Legal Studies through East Central University is the best bet for anybody in or around the Ada area. This four-year course of study provides a strong, liberal arts foundation with a focus on analytical and communication skills applicable to a variety of legal environments, from law offices to corporate legal departments to government agencies to nonprofits, and more. This ABA-approved program also features an internship, which is designed to allow you to apply your classroom theory in a real-world legal setting. Plus, if you decide to pursue law school in the future, this program serves as an excellent foundation to a Juris Doctor degree. We also love East Central’s host of student services, which include everything from free tutoring to enrollment assistance to assistance with study skills, stress management, and career options.
PENNSYLVANIA
Peirce College Legal Studies Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Website
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $600
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of a Cooperative Work Experience
Offers the Flexibility to Complete All General Coursework Online
Exceptional Faculty Made Up of Attorneys, Judges and LEOs with Close Ties to the Local and National Legal Community
Demonstrates a Commitment to Educational Excellence and Career Readiness by Tailoring Curriculum to Current Industry Demands
Contemporary and Highly Relevant Curriculum Includes Advanced Legal Technology
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Through the Peirce College Career Development Services Center
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Peirce College’s BS in Paralegal Studies is all about convenience and accessibility, which is why the program is offered in a hybrid format that allows you to complete most of the coursework from anywhere in the world. Simply complete the program’s four foundation courses on-campus and then complete all remaining courses either online, at the college’s Philadelphia campus, or a combination of the two. How’s that for convenience and flexibility? Plus, this ABA-approved program is led by experts in the field of law, so you can be sure the coursework and lectures are closely aligned with the demands and changing needs of the legal field.
RHODE ISLAND
Roger Williams University School of Continuing Studies Bristol, Rhode Island Website
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $300-$400
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship Included in the Curriculum
Offers the Flexibility of Being Able to Complete All General Coursework Online
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with a Master of Studies in Law and Juris Doctor through the Roger Williams University School of Law
Offers Contemporary and Highly Relevant Curriculum that Covers Emerging Law Office Technologies
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Services Through the Center for Career and Professional Development
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Roger Williams University’s BS in Paralegal Studies is a practice-oriented program designed to prepare you to serve as a valuable member of the legal team. To maintain its ABA approval status, this program includes 10 semester credits of legal specialty courses on campus, but the remaining courses can be completed entirely online to suit non-traditional students juggling work and school, regardless of their geographical limitations or professional obligations. We also love this school’s fantastic student services, which include one-on-one advising, tutoring (both on-campus and online), and the Center for Career and Professional Development, which includes individual career counseling, résumé and cover letter development, internship preparation and coordination, job search assistance, and much more.
SOUTH DAKOTA
National American University College of Legal Studies Rapid City/Sioux Falls, South Dakota Website
Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $393
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship Included in the Curriculum
Offers the Flexibility of a Hybrid Option and Evening Classes
Provides Outstanding Career Assistance and Student Support Services, Including Career Mentoring and Other Services for Alumni Through NAU Connect
Demonstrates a Commitment to Career-Long Success by Allowing Alumni to Audit Any Course Previously Taken and Passed at NAU
Holds ABA-Approval Status
Whether you choose to earn the BS in Paralegal Studies at the Rapid City or Sioux Falls campus (both are ABA-approved!), or prefer the convenience of online study, a world class undergraduate education can be yours through National American University. Plus, complete your degree on-campus and you’ll enjoy the flexibility of both day and evening classes. In addition to a truly comprehensive program that serves as either a foundation to a budding career or a springboard to an advanced paralegal position, we love this school’s outstanding student services, which include mock interviews, résumé and cover letter assistance, and business etiquette training, plus much more.
TENNESSEE
Belmont University Interdisciplinary Studies and Global Education Nashville, Tennessee Website
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies; Legal Studies Minor
Cost Per Credit: $1,090-$1,240
Diverse Elective Options in the Areas of Theory, Legal Reasoning and Methods, Legal Institutions, Law and Culture, and Ethics and Justice
Provides Immersive Learning Experiences and Opportunities to Network Through MTA Mock Trial and the Pre-Law Society
Exceptional Career Assistance and Student Support Services Through the University’s Career Development Team
Offers an Opportunity for More Advance Study with a Combined BA/BS and Juris Doctor—3+3 Program Allows Students to Complete Both Programs in 6 Years
The bachelor’s in legal studies at Belmont University is one of those rare programs that has it all. Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive undergrad education that’ll prepare you to work as a paralegal alongside attorneys and other legal staff, or you have aspirations of going to law school and becoming an attorney yourself, Belmont University’s BA/BS in Legal Studies is a sure bet. Along with a Legal Studies Core and legal electives, you’ll have plenty of options for specializing your degree by choosing from a wide array of elective courses in the areas of Theory, Legal Reasoning and Methods, Legal Institutions, Law and Culture, and Ethics and Justice. Plus, there are also plenty of opportunities for experiential learning and engagement beyond the classroom through MTA Mock Trial, a simulation of lower-court trials in the U.S. judicial system, and the Pre-Law Society, which hosts exciting speaker panels, lectures, and discussions throughout the year. If you’ve got your sights set on law school, Belmont also offers the 3+3 program, which combines the BA/BS undergrad degree with the Juris Doctor through the Belmont College of Law. Students of this program can begin their first year of law school during their fourth year of graduate study and complete both programs in just six years.
TEXAS
Texas A&M University – Commerce Political Science Department Commerce, Texas Website
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $290
Provides Valuable Field Experience Through a 160-Hour Internship Included in the Curriculum
Promotes Educational Excellence by Requiring Students to Complete a Portfolio Including a Survey of Experience
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Services Through the Career Development Center
Texas A&M University – Commerce offers not just a comprehensive, four-year degree in paralegal studies for both aspiring and practicing paralegals, it also offers the option of completing the program with either a liberal arts or science focus: Complete the BA degree and you’ll take foreign language courses; complete the BS degree and you’ll take on more upper-level political science courses. Both degrees stress the fundamentals of legal research, law office management, real estate law, constitutional law, and more, and both include the completion of an internship. In fact, students of this program gain plenty of hands-on experience through an internship at one of the County District Attorney’s Offices throughout the region or in a private attorney’s office. It’s no easy feat offering the best paralegal program in a state with so many options, but Texas A&M pulls it off.
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Offers an Opportunity for More Advanced Study with an MS in Law or MS in Mediation & Applied Conflict Studies and More
Facilitates the Transition to a Juris Doctor Program through a Partnership with New York Law School for Select Students, Offering the Unique 4+2 Program ($25,000 Annual Merit Scholarship) and 4+3 Program ($15,000 Annual Merit Scholarship)
Offers Study Aboard Options in Canada (Montreal) or Ireland (Dublin) that Provides an Opportunity to Learn More About Globally-Relevant Legal Issues
Offers a Highly Immersive and Accelerated Educational Experience That Allows You to Participate in an Internship Sooner Through Champlain’s Signature Upside-Down Curriculum Structure
Exceptional Faculty Made Up of Judges and Lawyers
Champlain College’s BA in Law is designed both for the aspiring paralegal and those with visions of attending law school. The upside-down curriculum allows you to first complete your foundational courses in areas like criminal law, torts, civil procedure, and family law, while later, you’ll complete courses in specialized areas of law including legal ethics, business organizations, evidence, and wills and trusts. We also love this program for its faculty of practicing judges and lawyer and its intensive internship experience that you’ll complete in our third or fourth year. A highly respected program through a nationally recognized university means that holding a degree from Champlain can open up doors to career opportunities anywhere in the country.
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship Included in the Curriculum
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Services Through the Career Counseling and Planning Center
Provides a Decided Focus on Communication Skills with Courses in Oral and Written Communication, and Business Communication
Offers the Convenience of 100% Online Course Delivery
Hampton University’s BA in Paralegal Studies can get you where you want to be, whether you want to enter the paralegal field or advance in it. This fully online program accommodates non-traditional and adult learners and includes the best in instruction, combined with comprehensive support services designed to ensure you succeed in your academics and reach your career goals. But there’s plenty more to love about this university, including the Career Counseling and Planning Center, which offers comprehensive student and career planning services that include career counseling, internship assistance, and cooperative education opportunities.
WASHINGTON
Saint Martin’s University College of Arts & Sciences Lacey, Washington Website
Minor in Legal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $1,201
Provides Valuable Field Experience in the Form of an Internship
Integrated with Bachelor’s Programs in Criminal Justice, Political Science and Psychology
Contemporary and Highly Relevant Curriculum Covers Environmental Protection Laws, Civil Liberties, Constitutional Law, and Business Law
Exceptional Faculty Made Up of Legal Experts Who Actively Participate in Contemporary Civil Rights Campaigns and Contribute Literature
Small Class Sizes Encourage Lots of Opportunities for Individualized Learning and Interactions with Professors
Located just a stone’s throw from the state capitol in Olympia where legislative developments at the state level are having a real impact on the national conversation about pressing social issues, Saint Martin’s University offers something to aspiring legal support professionals that few other schools can. The Minor in Legal Studies St. Martins can be added to a number of relevant majors, including political science, psychology, and criminal justice. Interested in law school? At Saint Martin’s you’ll work with a pre-law advisor, so you can be assured you’ll be well prepared for the LSAT and an advanced law degree. This minor comes complete with an internship placement in the thriving local legal community so you can apply theory in a real world setting where the rubber meets the road.
WEST VIRGINIA
Alderson Broaddus University Philippi, West Virginia Website
Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies
Estimated Cost Per Credit: $880
Provides Field Experience in the Form of a Field Practicum/Internship as Part of the Curriculum
Contributes to Cross-Cultural Understanding and Promotes Diversity by Requiring Three Semesters of Study in a Foreign Language and Offering a Course in International Law
Well Rounded Curriculum Includes Courses in Criminal Justice, a Communication Course in Argumentation and Persuasion, and a Philosophy Course in Applied Logic as Part of Required Coursework
Provides Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Through the Career Services Office
Recognized as one of the Best Regional Colleges in the South in 2015 by U.S. News & World Report, Alderson Broaddus should be on your radar if you want to start a paralegal career or advance in your current position. We love this school’s BA in Legal Studies for its multidisciplinary course of study, which features courses in legal principles and history, civil rights and liberties, ethics, and argumentation and logic, among others. Add to this the field practicum/internship experience that allows students to gain real world experience, a highly experienced faculty, and a focus on law in the context of global issues, and you have a world class program right here in Philippi.
WISCONSIN
University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire Eau Claire, Wisconsin Website
Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Arts in Political Science-Legal Studies Emphasis
Promotes A Sense of Community and Civic Duty by Requiring 30 Hours of Service Learning
Offers Exceptional Student Support and Career Assistance Services that Include Career Counseling, Interview Preparation, and Salary Negotiation
Offered as a Complement to a Major in Political Science, Opening Up Opportunities for Careers in Government and Public Policy
Fosters Cross-Cultural Understanding with Opportunities to Study a Foreign Language
Sometimes one of the most impressive things about a program is the caliber of the school it’s offered through. If you’re looking for a college in the Midwest where diversity is celebrated, civic mindedness is fostered, and where dozens of active and influential student organizations, clubs and honor societies provide opportunities for camaraderie and enrichment, then UWEC is where you want to be. The University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire doesn’t just offer paralegal students a solid bachelor’s program—they provide them with an opportunity to specialize their course of study to meet specific professional goals. Want a degree that includes a foreign language component? Choose the BA in Political Science, Legal Studies emphasis. Want a degree that includes a mathematics component? Choose the BS in Political Science, Legal Studies emphasis. Whatever you choose, you’ll enjoy the university’s career services, which include career counseling, internship and job search assistance, network coaching, interview preparation, and salary negotiation.
