Key Takeaways:
- Accredited online paralegal programs can launch your legal career in two years or less, often for well under $20,000.
- ABA approval is a meaningful credential to look for when comparing programs, though regional accreditation is the baseline standard.
- Cost varies widely across schools, so comparing in-state versus out-of-state tuition is essential before you commit.
Thinking about a career in law but not quite ready for law school? Online paralegal programs offer a practical, affordable path into the legal field without the 3-year commitment of a JD. Paralegals, also called legal assistants, work alongside attorneys to research cases, draft documents, and manage files. It’s rewarding, detail-oriented work, and demand is steady.
GetEducated helps you compare accredited online degree programs so you can find the best fit for your schedule and budget. Whether you’re a recent high school grad or a working adult looking to change careers, there’s likely a program on this list that works for you. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow 14% through 2032, faster than average.Best Online Paralegal Programs
These programs are all 100% online (or mostly online), accredited by recognized regional accrediting bodies, and open to students with a high school diploma or equivalent. Accreditation means the program meets established standards for education quality and is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. A few programs on this list also carry ABA approval, a designation from the American Bar Association that signals rigorous training for the paralegal profession.
GetEducated's Picks
- East Mississippi Community College Associate of Arts (AA) - Legal Studies Emphasis
- American Public University System Associate of Science in Legal Studies
- National University Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
Here are some of the most accessible and affordable options available today.
1. Clovis Community College: Associate of Applied Science in Legal Assistant Studies
Clovis Community College offers one of the most affordable online paralegal programs in the country. You will learn to assist attorneys by investigating facts, conducting interviews, performing legal research, and drafting legal documents. All courses are taught by practicing attorneys, which keeps the curriculum grounded in real-world practice.- In-State Cost: $5,453
- Out-of-State Cost: $9,297
- Credits: 62
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED; Placement Test
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
This is a strong pick if you want hands-on legal training at a community college price.
2. New Mexico State University-Alamogordo: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
NMSU-Alamogordo delivers a well-rounded program that covers family law, criminal courts and procedures, legal research and writing, and even practical skills like word processing and accounting. The institution-paced format gives you more structure than a fully self-directed program.- In-State Cost: $7,460
- Out-of-State Cost: $13,604
- Credits: 60
- Format: 100% Online (Institution-Paced)
- Admission: High school diploma or GED
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fees: Matriculation Fee ($20); Academic Support Fee ($20/credit)
A practical option for students who want affordable tuition with a structured schedule.
3. Central Texas College: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal/Legal Assistant
Central Texas College is a well-known option for military-connected students and civilians alike. The program covers document preparation, civil litigation, contracts, legal research, and more, preparing graduates to step into entry-level roles in law offices, courts, and court reporting centers.- In-State Cost: $7,800
- Out-of-State Cost: $15,000
- Credits: 60
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED; Placement Test
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Graduates leave ready to work in a variety of legal settings across the country.
If you want to see how these programs compare side by side, GetEducated's online paralegal program search lets you filter by cost, format, and accreditation in one place.
4. Hinds Community College: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Technology
Hinds Community College prepares graduates for entry-level roles in courts, corporations, law firms, and government agencies. One standout benefit: graduates are eligible to sit for certification exams offered by national paralegal organizations like NALA (the National Association of Legal Assistants), which can boost their job market credentials.- In-State Cost: $8,200
- Out-of-State Cost: $14,300
- Credits: 60
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED; ACT/SAT or ACCUPLACER
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Fees: $125 registration fee per semester; $150 technology fee per semester
The flexible, career-technical curriculum is designed to fit around a working student’s schedule.
5. Truckee Meadows Community College: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal/Law
The Truckee Meadows Community College program is ABA-approved, which is a meaningful credential in the paralegal world. Graduates are qualified to work in private legal practice, the public legal system, and corporate legal departments. The program also leads to professional licensure, a bonus in states that require it.
- In-State Cost: $8,293
- Out-of-State Cost: $11,931
- Credits: 63
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Fees: Health/sports, student association, and technology fees apply per credit
Strong choice if ABA approval matters to you, especially at this price point.
6. College of Southern Nevada: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
College of Southern Nevada gives you a focused education in drafting legal documents, legal research, civil procedure, and ethics. Students graduate with practical skills in producing quality legal work under an attorney’s direction.- In-State Cost: $8,540
- Out-of-State Cost: $12,005
- Credits: 60
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Fees: New Student Fee: $20
Another ABA-approved option from a well-established Nevada community college system.
7. Moraine Park Technical College: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal
Moraine Park Technical College offers a broad curriculum covering criminal law, family law, and civil litigation. Graduates are prepared to assist lawyers with researching the law, investigating cases, preparing for hearings and trials, and drafting legal documents.- In-State Cost: $9,357 (same for out-of-state)
- Credits: 64
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED; ACT/SAT or Placement Test
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Flat in-state and out-of-state pricing makes this one particularly easy to budget.
8. Madison Area Technical College: Associate of Science in Legal Studies / Paralegal
Madison Area Technical College emphasizes practical skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication alongside legal topics such as ethics, the American legal system, and legal research and writing. Graduates find success at law offices, governmental agencies, and corporations.- In-State Cost: $9,594 (same for out-of-state)
- Credits: 60
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Fees: $13.70 credit fee
A solid Wisconsin-based option for students who want strong foundational legal training online.
Not sure what credentials to look for? GetEducated’s guide on how to evaluate online degrees breaks down the difference between regional and national accreditation, and why it matters for your career.
9. National University: Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
National University offers an ABA-approved online paralegal program with a strong focus on preparing you to work effectively within a legal team. You will learn to examine case facts, research laws and regulations, prepare legal memoranda, and arrange evidence for attorneys. Credits are not intended for transfer to law school, but the program is designed to make you a highly capable legal professional.- In-State Cost: $33,300 (same for out-of-state)
- Credits: 90
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED; ACCUPLACER; official transcripts
- Minimum GPA: 2.0
- Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
The higher price reflects a four-year university setting with a more comprehensive credit load.
10. University of the Cumberlands: Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies
University of the Cumberlands gives you a law-focused associate degree that can serve as a stepping stone toward law school or direct employment. The curriculum covers legal research and writing, judicial procedure, legal terminology, and national government.- Cost: $13,200
- Credits: 60
- Format: 100% Online
- Admission: High school diploma or GED; minimum GPA of 2.0
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
A good middle-ground option for students who want a university credential with flexible online delivery.
Online Paralegal Programs FAQ
What does a paralegal do?
Paralegals assist attorneys with legal research, document preparation, case investigation, and client communication. They work in law firms, government agencies, corporations, and courts. While they cannot practice law independently, they handle much of the behind-the-scenes work that keeps legal operations running.
Do I need ABA approval to become a paralegal?
No, but ABA-approved programs signal that your training meets professional standards set by the American Bar Association. Some employers specifically prefer graduates from ABA-approved programs. If you plan to pursue certification through NALA or NFPA (National Federation of Paralegal Associations), graduating from an accredited program is typically required.
Can I complete an online paralegal program while working full time?
Yes. Most of the programs on this list are designed for working adults. They are asynchronous, meaning you access coursework on your own schedule rather than attending live sessions. That said, some programs include synchronous components, so check the format details before enrolling.
How long does it take to complete an online paralegal program?
Most associate degree programs require 60 to 70 credits and can be completed in two years of full-time study. Part-time options may take three to four years.
Is a paralegal certificate the same as an associate degree?
No. A certificate is typically shorter (sometimes just a semester or two) and focused on a specific skill set. An associate degree is a broader, two-year qualification that tends to carry more weight with employers and opens doors to bachelor’s completion programs.
Start Your Search for the Best Online Paralegal Programs
Online paralegal programs offer a smart way to enter the legal field without the time and cost of a law degree. The programs above range from under $6,000 to just over $33,000, so there is something for most budgets. Accreditation, ABA approval, and cost are the three factors worth weighing most carefully as you compare options.
Ready to explore further? Search online paralegal programs at GetEducated to compare programs side by side and find the one that fits your goals.