Online associate degree programs in paralegal studies

How do you envision the role of law in America? Do you see it in terms of courtroom showdowns, as depicted in the movies and on television? Do you view law from a constitutional perspective, as the framework of U.S. society? Or do you think of law in terms of justice, as a means of protecting the innocent and punishing wrongdoers?

The law plays all these roles in American society, and to do so, it requires a great many professionals beyond the lawyers and judges who may be the most visible symbols of the legal system.

What to expect from a paralegal studies associate degree program

A well-rounded paralegal studies associate degree program should include coursework in areas that the American Association for Paralegal Education defines as "core competencies" for paralegals. These core competencies include:

• Critical thinking skills: analysis and problem-solving
• Organizational skills: processing of information and prioritization
• General communication skills: interpersonal communications and teamwork
• Legal research skills: location and proper citing of legal information
• Legal writing skills: clear and concise expression of legal theory
• Computer skills: use of commonly-used office and research tools
• Interviewing and investigation skills: developing questions and accurately recording responses
• Understanding of ethical obligations: understanding the parameters of the paralegal's role
• Law office management skills: functions such as organization, personnel, and billing

Online associate degree programs in paralegal studies give you the opportunity to acquire these competencies conveniently and cost-effectively. This kind of skill set is not only good preparation for a career as a paralegal, but should qualify you for a variety of administrative jobs.

Careers for paralegals

Not only is paralegal training good background for a variety of administrative positions, but even within the occupation of paralegal itself there are a variety of employment opportunities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 71 percent of paralegals work for law firms. However, that's only the start of the list of potential employers for paralegals:

• Law firms
• Corporate legal departments
• Government offices
• Insurance companies
• Bank estate and trust departments
• Hospitals and health care organizations
• Real estate and title insurance companies
• Professional trade associations

According to BLS figures, as of May 2009 there were 246,810 paralegals employed in the United States, earning an average of $50,080 per year. The BLS projects the number of jobs for paralegals to grow to 337,900 by 2018.

Despite this job growth, the BLS expects there to be competition for paralegal jobs, so having the right training is important. A paralegal studies associate degree, and in particular one from a program approved by the American Bar Association, can give you the credential you need to compete for paralegal jobs.

You can research specific paralegal educational programs, as well as general information about college Majors in Paralegal Studies at WorldWideLearn's online education guide. Want to know more about degrees in law and criminal justice? We have that here, too.

The law can be fascinating, the job market for paralegals is growing, and pay levels are attractive. What more could you want from a career? Get yourself in position to compete for paralegal jobs by pursuing an associate degree in paralegal studies.

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