Bachelor's degree programs generally require four years of study, which is two years longer than an associate's degree in paralegal studies, and firms still hire those who hold associate's degrees in paralegal studies. However, prospective paralegal employees who hold a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies stand a better chance of getting hired by a reputable law firm. Graduating from a reputable university whose bachelor's program in paralegal program is approved by the American Bar Association also increases job prospects over associate's degree holders.
There are more than 1,000 schools offering paralegal degrees, but approximately one-quarter of those are approved by the American Bar Assocation. Programs that are approved by the American Bar Association give their students a better chance of being hired after graduation. Students who have studied for a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies are well prepared to take the Certified Legal Assistant (CLA) examination, which increases the likelihood of being hired after college.
The types of courses studied while pursuing a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies varies by program, but students generally learn how to conduct legal research and prepare legal documents. They learn the process of litigation and trial practice. Students will study different aspects of the law, including civil, property and tort law, while also studying legal ethics and legal terminology. Many bachelor's programs require 180 credit-hours of coursework to be completed The amount of coursework dedicated to fulfilling university requirements versus paralegal major requirements varies between universities.
Many options exist for students pursuing bachelor's degrees in paralegal studies, including distance education options. However, students pursuing a bachelor's degree in paralegal studies should consider a school's accreditation, whether its paralegal program is approved by the American Bar Association, and whether it prepares students for the CLA examination. Georgetown University and Pennsylvania College of Technology are two programs that are regionally accredited, approved by the American Bar Association and prepare students for the CLA examination.