If you have your associate's or bachelor's degree, our online advanced start program can help you earn a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies in as little as two years.* A completed bachelor's degree will give you the qualifications you need to increase your income potential and marketability in today's job market. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, bachelor's degree holders earn nearly double what high school diploma holders earn and over 30 percent more than associate's degree holders during their working lifetime.† Preparing for a future as a paralegal is a highly practical career choice. In fact, the U.S. Department of Labor predicts that job growth for paralegals will grow by 22% between 2006 and 2016.‡ At the same time, competition for paralegal jobs is also increasing, enhancing the advantage of a Bachelor's Degree in Paralegal Studies.

 Program Highlights 

    You will have the opportunity to build a solid foundation of knowledge in specialized areas of law while you study
    to develop paralegal skills, including:

    • Analyzing data and information to assist clients throughout the legal process
    • Performing legal research using electronic and print media
    • Applying investigative techniques to gather information from witnesses and other sources
    • Preparing and maintaining legal schedules and legal documents and forms

 Curriculum for the Advanced Start Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies 

    Courses Credits
    Total Prior Degree Credits* 90
    Courses Credits
    The Paralegal Professional
    Civil Litigation
    Introduction to Legal Research
    Courses Credits
    Arts and Humanities Elective 6
    Physical Science Elective 6
    Social Science Elective 6
    Courses Credits
    Real Estate Law 6
    Tort Law 6
    Advanced Legal Writing 6
    Major Electives 24
    Open Electives 24
    Bachelor’s Capstone in Paralegal Studies 6
    Total Program Requirements 90*

 What Are the Career Opportunities? 

This degree program will help prepare you to pursue opportunities in law firms, corporate law departments, and government agencies. Graduates may pursue career opportunities or job advancement in a legal environment such as a private law firm, corporate law department, or local, state, or federal agency.

In addition to private law firms, the number and types of companies that demand the services of paralegals is on the rise.  These include corporate legal departments, insurance companies, real estate and title insurance firms, and banks. Businesses of all sizes, and corporations in particular, are expected to increase their in-house legal departments to cut costs.† 

  

Tuition and Fees

Cost per credit hour$353.00
Total program requirements90*
Total cost of tuition$31,770.00

This program requires a $100 technology fee per term. Effective July 1, 2009, a minimum deposit of $70 is required at the time of enrollment and will be credited toward your tuition when you begin classes. The advanced start option assumes you have completed an associate's degree and requires a minimum of 180 quarter credit hours, including 90 from your requisite associate’s degree.* Additional courses and tuition costs and fees may be required to meet the prerequisites for the advanced start program. Refer to the University Catalog for transfer of credit policy. We encourage you to explore the availability of financial aid and scholarships. For more information, chat live or call an Admissions Advisor at 866.527.5268 (Toll Free).

Kaplan University offers tuition discounts to active-duty military servicemembers and veterans. Call 866.583.4412 to speak to a military Admissions Advisor.

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* Speak to an Admissions Representative or refer to the University Catalog for details about our Transfer of Credit policy.
†.S. Census Bureau, Current Population Survey, http://www.census.gov/compendia/statab/tables/08s0220.pdf (accessed May 2008).
‡ Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2008-09 Edition, Paralegals and Legal Assistants, http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos114.htm (accessed May 2008).
§ Paralegals are not lawyers and cannot practice law or give legal advice.