There were approximately 238,000 paralegal jobs in 2006. In the following decade—from 2006 to 2016—the paralegal field will grow another 22 percent according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you are thinking about becoming a paralegal, this is good news for you. It means that you will have a lot of job opportunities in the coming years.

But there is a catch.

In order to reap the benefits of this huge job growth, you will likely need formal paralegal training. Though there are no educational requirements for paralegals, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that those with formal paralegal training will likely have the best employment opportunities.

But if you’re like most other people in this busy society, finding the time to attend classes can be rough. But don’t worry. With online paralegal degrees, you don’t have to try to find the time to go to class—your classroom comes to you.

Benefits of Online Paralegal Degrees

There are many benefits to attending an online paralegal degree program.

• Convenience. As long as you meet the deadlines for the assignments, you can do your schoolwork at any time. You do not have to be at a specific place at a specific time with a specific schedule.
• Portability. You don’t even have to be at home to complete your online paralegal degree. As long as you have an Internet connection, you can be in school.
• Virtual classroom. Many of today’s online degree programs feature virtual classrooms. Many have live streaming videos of professors’ lectures, live Internet chats with your professor and classmates, and message boards. Rather than feeling “remote” from your class, you may well feel more “connected” to them.
• Choice. There are many online paralegal programs for you to choose from today. You don’t have to be restricted to just one or two choices, but can have your pick of a number of excellent online programs.

Courses in an Online Paralegal Degree Program

The courses in online paralegal programs vary quite a bit. But, in general, you can expect to take many of the following courses:

• Family law
• Employment law
• Legal research and writing
• Ethics
• Torts and personal injury
• Real estate law
• Bankruptcy law
• Alternative dispute resolution
• Civil litigation
• Estates and trusts
• Business law
• Legal terminology

Choosing an Online Paralegal Training Program

Online training programs are becoming an acceptable way to earn a degree today. But you still need to weigh your decision very carefully. Just like onsite paralegal training schools, the online versions vary quite a bit from one another. You should evaluate an online training program using the same standards that you would use to evaluate an onsite training program.

When selecting an online paralegal degree program, you should evaluate:

• The curriculum and whether it will provide the level of training that you feel you’ll need
• The level of access that you will have to your instructors
• Any professional affiliations of the school
• Is it accredited by any organizations that accredit online or distance learning schools?
• Will you receive a valid degree upon completion of your online training?

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  Anthem College Online

  Anthem College Online delivers career-focused diplomas and degrees in a wide variety of fields to help you meet the challenges of these fast growing and ever changing industries.

  At Anthem College Online, you will find professionals ready to support your quest for a successful career. Anthem College Online offers programs to students who are entering the workforce for the first time as well as those who are looking to expand their existing career skills.

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  Brookline College Online

  What is the Brookline College difference?
  We’re fast, flexible, and dedicated to your success. Brookline College is committed to providing you with a career-focused education experience. We offer fast, diverse programs, flexible class schedules, highly qualified instructors, and a staff that is dedicated to supporting you from start to finish. We want you to succeed, so we’ll take the time to understand your needs and then work to help you reach your goals. At Brookline College, your success starts here.

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  Everest University Online

  Everest University Online, a Division of Everest University makes career-training convenient and accessible. With courses tailored for working students and others who need a more flexible class schedule, Everest University Online allows students to learn from home and offers the same well-respected curriculum available at a traditional campus.

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  Keiser University eCampus Online

  For over 30 years, Keiser University has provided student-centered, quality career education. Keiser University eCampus Online offers degree programs online to prepare students for high-demand professions. Degrees are offered with a curriculum that is in pace with technology and workforce demand trends in business, criminal justice, healthcare and computer technology. Our “one-class-at-a-time” approach allows busy students to focus on their education and balance the demands of work and family.

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  Virginia College Online

  At Virginia College, our Associate’s, Bachelor’s and Master’s Degree programs emphasize a fast and focused method without sacrificing the quality education that students and employers demand. We constantly research to make certain we are offering those career programs in which the greatest job growth is expected. We proudly offer the most direct path to your new career!

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  South University Online

  Welcome to South University, delivering quality education and personalized attention to students since 1899. Our online degree programs are designed to provide you with the freedom to attend class any time – day or night – from anywhere you connect to the Internet. At South University, you are in control of your education.

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  Kaplan University Online

  Kaplan University is an accredited university, offering more than 200 degrees and programs. Choose from graduate, undergraduate, certificate, and diploma programs in fields ranging from business and technology to health sciences, fire sciences, legal studies, nursing, education and more.

  Our professors, many of whom have real-world experience, can help you develop your talent and achieve your goals. We give you multiple options for starting your education. Learn online, on campus, or at one of our learning centers. Becoming a Kaplan University student can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to complete your education on your terms.

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  Jones College Online

  Jones College offers career education programs that are in-demand. Each program gives you the skills you need for a new career in today’s fastest growing fields.An education at Jones College elevates your chances of getting hired for the career you’ve been looking for. Achieve your dreams and fulfill your aspirations with an education from Jones College. Our expert faculty and friendly support staff is dedicated to helping you successfully complete your chosen program. Let us help you gain the knowledge you need for greater success!

  Online Learning requires self-discipline and the ability to work with minimal supervision. Although online classes are more convenient, students should not have any preconceived notions that Online Learning courses are easier. A successful Online Learning student must have proficient knowledge of Standard English writing and communication skills, know how to manage time effectively and be proficient in basic computer skills. All course related activities are done within the class web site, including submitting assignments, communications and tests.

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  Harrison College

  If you are looking to earn your degree with a flexible schedule and the convenience to work around your busy schedule, Harrison College’s accredited online degree programs may be the perfect solution for you.

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  Career Point College Online

  Imagine an exciting new career in the medical, business, legal or computer fields. Career Point College is a great place to learn all of the skills you will need to succeed in these industries and get the future you want! In as few as eight months for a diploma, 15 months for an Associate’s, and 18 months for a Bachelor’s (with an Associate’s first), you could be prepared to enter the job marketplace. Whether it is because of our accelerated programs, hands-on training, personal attention, flexible schedules, lifetime placement assistance or lifetime refresher training, you will see Career Point College is the right school for you!