Law Degree & Career Guide

Additionally, completing a paralegal graduate certificate program can enhance career options and increase earning potential for workers in the field. Standard certificate classes cover topics such as paralegal business law, paralegal contract law, and paralegal tort law.

Standard bachelor’s in legal studies programs typically take students about four years of full-time study to complete. Students interested in entering the workforce more quickly can complete an associate in paralegal studies in two years. Additionally, those pursuing a graduate certificate program can often satisfy requirements in a year or less.

Whether pursuing an associate in paralegal studies or a master’s in legal studies, many online programs allow degree-seekers to complete coursework at their own pace through asynchronous coursework. This gives students the flexibility needed to juggle academic, professional, and personal obligations.

However, a four-year degree is not entirely essential for someone wanting to enter the legal workforce. Students can complete an associate degree in paralegal studies in two years of full-time coursework. Additionally, certificate programs offer specialized knowledge that students can obtain relatively quickly.

However, many online programs offer generous transfer policies, allowing some students to complete requirements at a quicker pace. In contrast, part-time students and those juggling various professional and personal responsibilities may take longer to earn their legal studies degree.