Become a paralegal in as little as 14 months!

Classes start 12 times a year—apply today.

Online Paralegal Associate Degree

Marian University’s online Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies degree prepares students to become leaders in this fast-growing field. Our paralegal program consists of 66 credit hours which can be completed in 14 months. Classes are taught in five-week terms and eight-week sessions throughout the year.

Local law firms offer opportunities to participate in internships, externships, and job shadowing. Marian prepares you to hit the ground running after graduation. In fact, many of our graduates have gone on to work where they’ve interned.

Careers in paralegal studies

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an 15% employment growth for paralegals between 2016 and 2026. Paralegals are needed in law firms, corporations, government agencies, insurance and mortgage companies, and even banks. Regardless of the legal specialization you select, Marian will prepare you to become a leader in the field with the critical thinking, communication, and technology skills that are highly desired by employers.

Attorneys and paralegals serve as adjunct instructors in our online paralegal studies program. You will have plenty of opportunities to network, so that you can land a great job backed by hands-on experience.

Paralegal studies curriculum

Marian’s fully online paralegal program provides the skills needed for students to succeed after graduating. The program includes courses such as legal research, legal writing and communication, and civil litigation for the paralegal. There are also classes that are devoted to preparing students for their careers, such as legal career preparation and development and the internship in pre-law studies/paralegal studies. These help students find jobs and gain early insight into their chosen career path.

Associate degree

Schedule of classes

Program objectives

Conduct case law research and analyze scholarly sources and legal code to explain diverse civic issues and lawsuits and articulate what is expected in order to maintain the respect and integrity of the profession and the legal system within the community.
Exhibit strong, responsible, ethical decision making in the legal environment and solid knowledge of ethical obligations and liabilities.
Use diverse communication skills to present researched facts, results and findings and to make coherent arguments.
Evaluate legal issues on the local, state, federal and international level.
Utilize multiple research strategies and databases to locate appropriate information for assignments and effective use of software applications in a law office setting.
Analyze records, interviews, case studies, legal codes and regulations to determine outcomes and evaluate theories and approaches to complex problems.
Develop career planning and social networking skills aligned with industry standards.
Edit and revise for proficiency in writing skills in a variety of environments, across multiple specializations.

Learn more about Marian’s online associate degree in paralegal studies!

Marian University’s paralegal studies program is offered fully online and provides internship opportunities and support from local law firms. Getting started is easy. Request more information today or contact us at (317) 955-6578 to learn more.