Bachelor's degree programs in legal studies

Long before a lawyer argues a case before a jury, paralegals put their specialized skills to work. Paralegals collect, analyze and organize information for attorneys prior to trial. They may prepare legal arguments, motions and pleas, draft paperwork to file lawsuits. Some draft contracts and separation agreements, or set up trusts and conduct estate planning.

• Family law
• Business law
• Copyright law
• Legal research and writing
• Gender and diversity in the law
• The legal system in America
• Computer assisted legal research
• Real estate transfer and ownership
• Interviewing and alternative dispute resolution

A legal studies bachelor's degree is typically completed in four years of full-time study--at least three-years less than the typical time commitment to complete a law degree.

Careers for graduates of legal studies bachelor's degree programs

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that careers for paralegals are expected to grow 28 percent between 2008 and 2018, significantly faster than job growth across all industries. Online bachelor's degree programs in legal studies can prepare you for several rewarding careers in law. Find a short list of career possibilities for graduates of these specialized bachelor's degree programs below. Salary information is provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

• Legal secretaries perform secretarial duties in law offices, including preparing summons, motions and other legal correspondence. May 2009 mean annual salary for legal secretaries: $42,940.


• Paralegals, also known as legal assistants, work behind the scenes in law offices. They prepare attorneys for court and settlement cases and support lawyers in numerous ways. May 2009 mean annual salary for paralegals: $50,080.


• Federal-level paralegals work for the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Department of the Treasury and the Social Security Administration. May 2009 mean annual salary for federal paralegals: $62,570.

While no degree program can guarantee you will land a specific career or salary, many hiring managers prefer or require formal education for applicants in law careers. Boost your salary and career potential with an online bachelor's degree program in paralegal studies.

Benefits of online bachelor's degree programs in legal studies

About 260 online paralegal programs are approved by the American Bar Association. Now that online degrees often receive the same academic accreditation and employer approval as campus-based equivalents, online bachelor's degree programs in paralegal studies are an excellent, flexible option for completing a higher education.

Begin training for your career in the legal industry with an online bachelor's degree in paralegal studies, which can allow you to keep a full-time job and family commitments, while earning your degree. You can learn more about law degrees and other undergraduate criminal justice majors, when you visit WorldWideLearn's Guide to College Majors.

Start training for a legal career today with online bachelor's degree programs in paralegal studies.

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