About the Online Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies Degree
For students who are interested in pursuing a career in the legal profession, one of the fastest ways to get into the field is with a degree in paralegal studies. And, if you’re considering a paralegal career, you should also consider the Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies from University of Arkansas Grantham. This online degree program is designed specifically to prepare graduates for success supporting legal teams large and small.
Now is a great time to get started. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for paralegals and legal assistants are expected to grow 15% by 2026—more than twice the average growth rate projected for all occupations.
What students will learn
As a student in UA Grantham’s paralegal studies program, you’ll sharpen your communication, analytical and organizational skills in order to support your future work in fast-paced and detail-oriented environments. Throughout your core courses, you’ll engage in attorney lead interviews, assist investigative efforts and correspond with clients, attorneys and court personnel. Coursework is also designed to help you learn basic legal principles and build your legal vocabulary.
The legal field is one that requires professionalism and thrives on efficiency, and UA Grantham’s program will help you achieve both. You’ll gain a basic understanding of the proper methods and procedures used in a legal practice as well as the technical aspects of law office operations and management.
It’s not just about process and procedure though: Through this online degree program, you will also complete courses on computer applications, English composition and oral communication to help strengthen your foundational professional skills.
What students can prepare for
The skills you’ll gain in this associate degree program will help you pursue any number of entry-level positions in legal work—in corporate work, government offices or nonprofit enterprises.
Paralegal and Legal Assistant
Paralegals and legal assistants are important members of the legal team, whether in a small practice, a large firm or a legal department in a corporate or government organization. These roles include performing legal research and analysis, limited interviewing and investigative duties, and preparing legal documents for client, attorney and court review.
From file maintenance and administrative tasks to research and drafting documents, the work of paralegals and legal assistants is often very similar. In fact, sometimes the difference in the work performed is only in the title.
Legal Secretary and Legal Support Worker
A degree in paralegal studies can also open the door to other paths that you may not have yet considered, including work as a legal secretary or legal support worker. These roles often have similar job responsibilities as legal assistants, though they may take a more administrative focus.
Legal secretaries typically transcribe or summarize notes, handle billing and scheduling tasks, and manage phone calls, emails and other correspondence. Legal support workers may also spend more time gathering files, taking notes, or organizing information for other members of the legal team.
Choosing UA Grantham
As a 100% online program, UA Grantham's Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies was designed to let you earn your career-building degree at your pace—giving you the freedom and flexibility to succeed while still enjoying life to the fullest.
At UA Grantham, we're dedicated to helping each and every student succeed no matter what program they choose. It's why we have developed a variety of student support services, including our Learning Center and student resources.
We also provide a dedicated student advisor to provide motivational support throughout your educational endeavors at UA Grantham. Our support continues well beyond graduation. We also provide job search assistance through our Career Services team.
We also understand that the cost of continuing your education can be one of the biggest obstacles to going back to school. That’s why UA Grantham offers one of the lowest tuition rates in the nation—even lower through our Military Aid Program for military service members.
Getting Started
UA Grantham’s Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies requires 60 credit hours, which means that this online degree program typically takes about 24 months to complete by a full-time student. However, if you have prior coursework or eligible life experience, such as career experience or military service, you could get up to 25% closer to graduation with our credit transfer policy before you take your first class. And courses start every month.
Are you ready to pursue a career in law? Make today the day you start pursuing a degree in Paralegal Studies! Contact our admissions team to begin the enrollment process now!