Seeking paralegal training is a smart career move. Although some employers fully train their own paralegals, this option is become very rare. This segment of the legal field is growing rapidly and, with this growth, comes competition for the best jobs. In order to remain a viable candidate for these top jobs, therefore, you should have formal training. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, “formally trained paralegals should have the best employment opportunities” in the coming years.

But this creates a challenge.

What paralegal training program is best for you? How do you find such a school? What qualities distinguish top paralegal schools from the mediocre ones?

No Licensing Requirements = No Educational Standards

Finding a good paralegal training program is not an easy process. Because there are no licensing rules for paralegals—in any state—there are no uniform educational standards for paralegal schools.

As a result, the educational requirements of paralegal schools vary widely as does the quality of their training programs. This leaves you with a big decision. Which schools—out of the estimated 600 paralegal training programs in the United States—should you put on your list of the top paralegal schools?

Narrow the List

The best way to narrow your list of paralegal schools is to find out which ones have been approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).

Although schools do not need ABA approval to operate, having such an endorsement is an indication that their training programs have met some standards of quality. In order for a school to be approved by the ABA, it must submit appropriate documents along with a self-evaluation report for the ABA’s consideration. In addition, an evaluation team from the ABA will visit the campus to assess its worthiness for approval.

There are approximately 250 ABA-approved paralegal training programs around the county.

What is Quality Paralegal Training?

Although there are no uniform educational standards for paralegal training programs, the American Association for Paralegal Education has recognized the necessary ingredients for a quality paralegal education. They are:

1. Facilities
2. Faculty
3. Curriculum development
4. Paralegal instruction
5. Marketing and promotion
6. Student services
7. Related competencies

Facilities

Paralegal training programs should have the appropriate facilities needed to provide their students with the best learning tools. Although this might cover a broad area, it basically means that the classroom environment should be conducive to learning. This also means that, among other things, their students should have access to a law library for training in legal research methods

Faculty

The faculty of top paralegal schools should consist of knowledgeable instructors who have graduate degrees in their fields. A majority of their instructors should be legal professionals who are also experienced teachers.

Curriculum development

A quality paralegal training program should constantly monitor the changes within the legal field and adjust their curriculums accordingly.

Paralegal Instruction

Top paralegal schools should offer instruction in the following areas:

• The American legal system
• Ethics
• Delivery of legal services
• Substantive and procedural law
• The paralegal profession
• Law offices and related environments
• Legal research and writing
• Law-related computer skills
• Legal interviewing and investigation

Marketing and Promotion

All advertising and marketing of top paralegal schools should be ethical and should fully disclose all facts about the course of study, its statistics of successful job placement, employment opportunities for paralegals, etc.

Student Services

Top paralegal schools should offer its students a full range of career counseling services, career placement assistance, and opportunities to participate in honor societies.

Related Competencies

A quality paralegal school should provide its students a general educational environment that fosters such qualities as:

• Communication skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Organizational skills
• Computer skills
• Understanding ethics
• Computational skills

• 

  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.

• 

  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.

• 

  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.

• 

  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.

• 

  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.

• 

  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!

• 

  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.

• 

  Penn Foster

  Having the right skills is vitally important in today’s super-competitive job market. With online training from Penn Foster Career School, students are assured of learning up-to-date career skills that will prepare them for the jobs of today and tomorrow. Students at Penn Foster Career School can get the training they need quickly, conveniently, and affordably.

  Penn Foster is one of the world’s largest and most respected online education providers. Their programs are job focused, and they offer training for employment in the fastest-growing fields in business, technology, health care, and the trades.

• 

  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.

• 

  U.S. Career Institute

  U.S. Career Institute is one of the oldest distance-learning institutions in the nation. For over 30 years, we have trained thousands of men and women for exciting and rewarding careers. Our mission is to provide high-quality and affordable education with real-world curriculum. At U.S. Career Institute our faculty and staff focus on the needs and satisfaction of students. By doing this, we provide exceptional, applicable instruction and service. We continually assess the effectiveness of our curricula and service, as well as the academic achievement of our students in order to improve the quality of our educational experience.

  U.S. Career Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of the Distance Education and Training Council.

  We’re Flexible – Start your Certificate Program when the time is right for you!
  No specific deadlines or timelines to coordinate. The minute you are ready to begin the program we are here, ready to get you started. Learning with U.S. Career Institute is self paced – complete the program as fast or as slow as you wish.

  Study Anytime, Anywhere!
  At U.S. Career Institute, the educational program and the instructional materials are specifically designed for guided independent study through distance learning. With distance education, you can study in the comfort and convenience of your own home. There is no commute. No classes to attend, no schedules to keep. You have the flexibility to adjust your schedule so you can study at the time and place that’s right for you!