Community colleges often offer paralegal technical programs. These programs typically last two years and students graduate with an associate's degree. The benefits of community college include a smaller campus, smaller class sizes and possibly lower tuition, especially if you are a state resident. Most community colleges require a high school diploma or a GED, along with SAT or ACT scores.
Four-year colleges and universities offer greater diversity for students who want to focus on a particular branch of law, like real estate, tax, personal injury or criminal law. Some colleges and universities admit students into a paralegal program after the student has finished two years of general prerequisites. Minnesota State University in Moorhead, Minnesota, has an American Bar Association approved paralegal college that offers several different emphases like elder law and probate, litigation and commercial law.
Private vocational schools like Phoenix College, Lamson College or Everest College may provide a faster track than public community or four-year colleges or universities. Credits earned at vocational schools can often be transferred to four-year colleges; however, students should should verify the accreditation of the program.
Online schools are a viable option for paralegal training. Since it does not involve learning hands-on skills, a person can pace the course of study depending on time and financial resources. Most schools offer online options, though students must attend licensed testing centers to take the examinations.