Paralegal Studies Associate Degree

Prepare for a role in the paralegal profession with National American University’s online Paralegal Studies Associate degree. NAU’s ABA-approved program will help you develop basic paralegal, critical thinking, and communications skills that will allow you to perform a variety of functions in the legal field and other settings that require analytical and communication skills. Graduates are encouraged to apply credits earned in this program toward NAU’s Paralegal Studies Bachelor of Science degree.

Online Paralegal Studies Associate Degree Classes and Curriculum

The Paralegal Studies Associate of Applied Science program consists of major core, support core, and general education core courses that total 90.5 quarter credits.

All classes are offered online, with three legal specialty courses (13.5 quarter credits) delivered synchronously through online video conferencing.

Course availability is subject to minimum class size requirements.

Prepare for a Paralegal Certification Exam

Although national certification is not a professional requirement to become a paralegal, as a graduate of NAU’s AAS Paralegal Studies program, you will be eligible to voluntarily sit for the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) exam administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and earn the designation of Certified Paralegal (CP). Graduates may also choose to seek certification from the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) through the Paralegal CORE Competency Exam™ (PCCE™) exam and become a CORE Registered Paralegal (CRP™).

Online Paralegal Studies Associate Degree Tuition and Fees

Learn more about our undergraduate tuition schedule.

Online Paralegal Studies Bachelor’s Degree Career Opportunities

Under the supervision of an attorney, a paralegal may perform various tasks normally performed by a lawyer as permitted by law and ethical standards. Paralegals may be employed in law firms; corporate legal departments; local, state and federal government offices; bank and trust departments; and other offices that require a specialized understanding of the law and the legal system. Paralegals may also be employed in other careers that require excellent analytical and communication skills.

A paralegal may interview clients and witnesses; draft court pleadings and other legal documents; perform legal research; review medical, police and other records; attend hearings; assist in trial preparations; and assist at trial. However, a paralegal may not engage in activities considered to be the practice of law, including giving legal advice, representing a client in court, or setting legal fees.

Who Is a Good Candidate for the Paralegal Studies Associate Degree?

• Entry-level Employment: The Paralegal Studies Associate degree is a great start for a new career in the legal field. You will develop the skills you need for entry-level employment.
• Administrative Assistants: You are a great fit for this program if you already work in an administrative support position and want to advance your career. Administrative assistants, for example, can prepare for a career as a paralegal through NAU’s Paralegal Studies program.
• Others: Graduates of the program may also be employed in a variety of careers that require excellent analytical and communication skills.

Please Note: Some jurisdictions regulate the admission of individuals into the paralegal profession. A person convicted of a felony may not be able to serve as a paralegal in certain states. Please consult with your state’s judicial offices to determine the regulation of paralegals in your state.