Best Online Paralegal Programs in 2025
Choosing the right online paralegal program can define your success in the legal field.
This 2025 guide highlights reputable, accredited schools offering flexible online paralegal certificates and degrees, ideal for working adults and career changers.
Paralegal Salary Snapshot
U.S.39,300 openings/yr
How We Chose These Programs (Methodology)
The following programs were selected based on a combination of academic quality, flexibility, cost, and career outcomes.
Each school meets recognized accreditation standards and offers coursework covering core paralegal competencies.
Key Ranking Factors:
- Accreditation: Regional or national accreditation verified through the U.S. Department of Education
- Curriculum Strength: Inclusion of legal research, writing, and ethics
- Student Support: Internship options, academic advising, or career placement
- Flexibility: Fully online or hybrid formats suitable for working adults
- Affordability: Competitive tuition and financial aid availability
All programs featured below are known for producing graduates who transition successfully into law firms, corporate legal teams, and government agencies.
Top Online Programs (Profiles)
While program details change annually, these schools consistently appear among the most reputable online paralegal options nationwide.
1. Liberty University – Online Paralegal Studies (AAS)
- Type: Associate Degree
- Length: ~2 years (transfer-friendly)
- Highlights: ABA-aligned curriculum, asynchronous courses, affordable tuition
- Why It Stands Out: Excellent student support and flexible pacing
2. Purdue University Global – Paralegal Certificate
- Type: Undergraduate Certificate
- Length: 6–10 months
- Highlights: Practical assignments and strong employer partnerships
- Why It Stands Out: Well-known online brand with dedicated legal faculty
3. University of Massachusetts Global – Legal Studies, BA
- Type: Bachelor’s Degree
- Length: ~4 years
- Highlights: General legal theory and compliance-oriented courses
- Why It Stands Out: Combines legal studies and business law disciplines
4. National University – Paralegal Studies, AA
- Type: Associate Degree
- Length: 20 months (accelerated)
- Highlights: Rolling enrollment, military-friendly structure
- Why It Stands Out: Offers short course modules for faster completion
5. University of Arizona Global Campus – Legal Studies, BA
- Type: Bachelor’s Degree
- Length: ~4 years
- Highlights: Courses in civil procedure, ethics, and constitutional law
- Why It Stands Out: Strong online platform and career pathways in compliance
These programs reflect strong academic reputations and align with industry-recognized certification pathways like NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) exam.
Who Should Choose Online vs. Campus
Online Programs
Best for:
- Working professionals balancing jobs or family commitments
- Students seeking flexibility and lower tuition
- Learners comfortable with self-paced coursework and digital collaboration
On-Campus Programs
Best for:
- Those preferring face-to-face instruction and networking
- Students who value internships arranged directly through campus offices
- Learners who benefit from structured, in-person study environments
Both options can lead to the same certifications and entry-level paralegal opportunities, the difference lies in learning style and flexibility.
Compare Online Certificate Options
Explore Full Paralegal Studies Degrees
Next Steps
When evaluating paralegal programs, focus on accreditation, curriculum quality, and support services.
Accredited online certificates and degrees can open the same doors as on-campus programs, with added convenience for today’s learners.
Explore the paths below to continue your search:
Notice an update we should make?
We strive for accuracy. Contact us here if you see incorrect or outdated info on this page.