Associate Degree in Paralegal: A Complete Guide (2025)

Q: What is a Paralegal?

A paralegal is a legal professional who helps attorneys prepare for cases, research laws, draft legal documents, and organize files. Most paralegals work in law firms, but many are also employed in corporate legal departments, government offices, or non-profits.

Q: What Does a Paralegal Do?

Research legal issuesDraft contracts, briefs, and legal filingsOrganize case files and evidenceInterview clients and witnessesSupport lawyers in court

Q: How Long Is a Paralegal Degree?

An associate degree in paralegal usually takes 2 years full time. Some programs offer part-time or accelerated options, letting you finish faster.

By Marce ArnejoJun 21, 2024Updated May 20, 2026

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Thinking about a career in law? An associate degree in paralegal is a fast, affordable way to start working in the legal field. Paralegals earn an average salary of $61,010 per year (BLS, May 2024), and the job market is growing across the U.S. This guide covers what a paralegal does, how to become a paralegal, paralegal degree options, and more.

Paralegal programs for you

Arizona State University

Forensic Science (Death Investigation), BS

Online

Top 10 for best online bachelor's programs.
Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.

Financial aid (may be available)

Regent University

Law, B.A.

Online

Earn a degree online with flexible class options to fit your schedule
Provides career assistance for entry-level legal and paralegal roles

Financial aid (may be available)

Arizona State University

Business (Law), BA

Online

Top 10 for best online bachelor's programs.
Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.

Financial aid (may be available)

Arizona State University

Forensic Science, BS

Online

Top 10 for best online bachelor's programs.
Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.

Financial aid (may be available)

Key Points

What is a paralegal? Trained legal professional who assists lawyers with research, writing, and casework.
How to become a paralegal: Earn a paralegal degree or certificate, then apply for entry level paralegal jobs.
How long is a paralegal degree? Associate degree: 2 years full time.
Paralegal salary (U.S.): $61,010 per year (BLS).
Where paralegals work: Law firms, government agencies, corporations, non-profits.

What is an Associate Degree in Paralegal?

An associate degree in paralegal is a 2-year undergraduate program that prepares students for entry-level positions in the legal field. The curriculum covers a range of legal topics, including legal research, writing, and procedures, as well as general education courses. Upon completion, graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to assist lawyers in various legal settings, such as law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments.

What is a Paralegal?

A paralegal is a legal professional who helps attorneys prepare for cases, research laws, draft legal documents, and organize files. Most paralegals work in law firms, but many are also employed in corporate legal departments, government offices, or non-profits.

What Does a Paralegal Do?

Research legal issues
Draft contracts, briefs, and legal filings
Organize case files and evidence
Interview clients and witnesses
Support lawyers in court

Pros and Cons of an Associate Degree in Paralegal

Pros:

Affordable and faster than a bachelor’s degree
Prepares you for entry level paralegal jobs quickly
Flexible options, including online and part-time programs

Cons:

Limited career advancement without further education
Some employers prefer a bachelor’s degree or higher
Starting paralegal salary may be lower than for those with more advanced degrees

Before choosing a program, it helps to weigh the pros and cons of becoming a paralegal alongside the benefits and limits of earning an associate degree.

How to Get an Associate Degree in Paralegal

Meet paralegal requirements: Most paralegal schools require a high school diploma or GED.
Choose a paralegal degree or certificate program: Compare associate degree, paralegal certificate, and paralegal certification options.
Apply and enroll: Submit transcripts and complete the application for your chosen paralegal school.
Complete your coursework: Typical classes cover legal research, writing, ethics, civil/criminal law, contracts, and legal technology.
Graduate and seek certification: Earning a voluntary paralegal certification (such as NALA or NFPA) can boost your job prospects.
Apply for entry level paralegal jobs: Law firms, courts, and companies are always hiring.

List of Online Associate Degree in Paralegal

If you're exploring online associate degree options in Paralegal, one notable website is Dreambound, which provides a flexible and economical Paralegal degree program.

Dreambound is an online educational platform that teams up with accredited universities to offer high-quality and affordable degree programs. Their online associate degree in Paralegal caters to students seeking a flexible and accessible learning experience.

Programs and schools available through Dreambound include:

Liberty University Online

Program:

AA Paralegal Studies

Cost Range: $6,000 - $18,000

More programs to explore

Regent University

Paralegal Studies, B.S.

Online

Earn a degree online with flexible class options to fit your schedule
Provides career assistance for paralegal and legal assistant jobs

Financial aid (may be available)

Arizona State University

Legal Studies (Federal Contracting Law), MLS

Online

Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.
#2 for employability among U.S. public universities by GEURS.

Financial aid (may be available)

Regent University

Government, B.A.

Online

Earn a degree online with flexible class options to fit your schedule
Provides career assistance and preparation for public service roles

Financial aid (may be available)

Arizona State University

Legal Studies (Navajo Nation), MLS

Online

Learn from notable faculty at the nation's most innovative university.
#2 for employability among U.S. public universities by GEURS.

Financial aid (may be available)

Broward College

Program:

AS in Paralegal Studies

Cost Range: $3,400 - $12,000

How Long Is a Paralegal Degree?

An associate degree in paralegal usually takes 2 years full time. Some programs offer part-time or accelerated options, letting you finish faster.

What to Expect from Paralegal School

Courses: Legal research, writing, ethics, contracts, civil/criminal law, real estate, and legal tech
Skills: Organization, communication, problem-solving, attention to detail
Experience: Some programs include internships, giving you real-world paralegal training

Career Paths with a Paralegal Degree

Entry level paralegal jobs: Law firm paralegal, legal assistant, legal researcher, corporate paralegal
Advanced roles: Litigation support specialist, law office manager, or continue to a bachelor’s degree for more opportunities
Further study: Some paralegals go on to law school or specialized legal graduate programs

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a paralegal make? Average paralegal salary: $61,010 per year (BLS, May 2024).

What are the paralegal requirements? Most entry level paralegal jobs require at least an associate degree or a paralegal certificate.

Do I need paralegal certification? Certification isn’t required, but voluntary credentials like the NALA Certified Paralegal can help you stand out.

Final Thoughts

Earning an associate degree in paralegal is a practical, affordable step toward a rewarding legal career. With paralegal jobs in high demand, now’s the perfect time to start your journey.

Find your paralegal degree on Dreambound and take your first step today.

Feel free to explore the other guides below if this one isn't quite what you're aiming for: