Keiser University

Paralegal Studies

Miami Campus
Associate Degree
Paralegal Studies
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program on campus, and it is also offered in online and hybrid formats (availability varies by campus).
$12,908 per semester. This program spans 4 semesters at full-time enrollment.
Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 20 months (approximately 1 year and 8 months) and 60 credit hours.
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid, including grants and federal student loans.

Paralegal Studies is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Miami, FL. The program takes 20 Months to complete, with tuition of $12,908 per semester.

Program Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Arts degree in Paralegal Studies prepares students to assist attorneys working in either transactional and litigation fields and to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Legal Studies by providing quality instruction and practical training. Through our community partnerships, graduates will ethically and professionally make meaningful contributions to the legal profession as paralegals.

What sets this Program apart

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Paralegal Career

  • Legal research techniques and database navigation
  • Legal writing and document drafting
  • Case management and file organization
  • Legal terminology across practice areas
  • Civil litigation procedures and trial support
  • Contract analysis and review
  • Client communication and professionalism
  • Law office technology and software applications
  • Legal ethics and professional responsibility
  • Time management and organizational skills

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

Admission Requirements and Process

Admission includes Keiser University's general requirements plus any program-specific requirements listed below, followed by the university’s application process.

Transfer credit. Credit for courses completed at another institution is subject to approval by Keiser University’s Dean of Academic Affairs, and those courses must be similar in content and duration to the courses in this program. Keiser University requires that a student complete at least the final 25% of a program through the University; active duty, reservist and National Guard service members may complete that 25% at any point in the program. Official transcripts must reach Keiser University by the end of the student’s first semester, and Keiser University makes no blanket promise to accept credits from any other institution.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED
    Verification of high school graduation (transcript, diploma, etc.), verification of GED completion (GED scores or GED diploma), or proof of graduation from a foreign institution…
  • Entrance Examination
    Applicants must take Keiser University’s entrance examination or provide results of the SAT, ACT or ASVAB. The University requires a combined score of 910 on the SAT, a composite…
  • Application and Registration Fees
    A one-time $55 application fee and a one-time $145 registration fee are charged upon enrollment.
  • FAFSA (for Financial Aid)
    Students seeking financial aid complete the FAFSA using Keiser University’s federal school code, 015159.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s admissions counselors to talk through the program and your options.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an open house or plan a campus visit. Applicants are encouraged to visit the University in person.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. Applications for winter, spring or fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.
    Apply Now

Program Schedule

Keiser University students take one class at a time. Keiser University term lengths are 4-week, 8-week and 16-week.

Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 20 months and 60 credit hours.

Keiser University lists this program as available on campus, Online, and Hybrid.

Tuition is charged per 16-week semester according to the credit hours scheduled.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • November 23rd, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • February 08th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • April 05th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • June 07th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027
  • August 02nd, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Per Semester Tuition
≈ $12,908
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition per 16-week semester according to the number of credit hours scheduled, not per program. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12 to 17.99 credits)$12,908.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$9,681.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$6,454.00
Less than half time (0 to 5.99 credits)$3,227.00
Full time + (18 to 24 credits, approval required)$16,135.00

Required fees

  • Application fee — $55.00, one time on enrollment
  • Registration fee — $145.00, one time on enrollment
  • Education fee — $550.00 per semester, for programmatic participation and facilities resources

Other fees are charged per occurrence: withdrawal $100.00, re-entry $150.00, transcript $5.00, student ID replacement $15.00, returned check $35.00, late payment $10.00 and library late fee $10.00. Clinical, licensure, professional skill development and technical fees vary by program.

Financial aid

Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Students seeking aid complete the FAFSA using the university’s federal school code, 015159.

Curriculum

The Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies at Keiser University gives students comprehensive preparation for supporting legal professionals in diverse practice areas. Focused on legal research, civil litigation, contract law, family law, and legal writing, the paralegal studies program equips students to handle real-world legal tasks with confidence and professionalism. Through coursework in criminal law, torts, real property, and wills and estates, students gain the practical knowledge needed to assist attorneys, manage case files, and contribute to legal teams across multiple legal specialties. To receive an Associate of Arts degree in Paralegal Studies, students must complete 60 credit hours as follows:

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
PLA1103Legal Research and Writing I3
PLA1304Criminal Law3
PLA1423Contracts3
PLA1600Wills, Trusts and Estates3
PLA2203Civil Litigation3
PLA2272Torts3
PLA2610Real Property3
PLA2800Family Law3
POS1041Political Science (required)3
PSY1012Introduction to Psychology3
SYG1000Sociology3
SPC1017Speech Communications3
CGS1000CIntroduction to Computers3
ECO1023Microeconomics3
ECO2013Macroeconomics3
ENC1101English Composition I3
ENC2102English Composition II3
AML1000American Literature3
CWL1000Contemporary World Literature3
ENL1000English Literature3
MAC2105College Algebra3
MGF2106College Mathematics3
MGF2107Applications of Mathematics3
STA2023Statistics3
BSC1005General Biology3
BSC1005LGeneral Biology Laboratory1
BSC1006Advanced Biology3
BSC1006LAdvanced Biology Laboratory1
BSC1050Environmental Science3

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Keiser University’s paralegal associate degree prepare to pursue entry level positions throughout the legal industry. Legal assistants and paralegals work in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and the federal government supporting attorneys in both civil and criminal matters. This paralegal degree opens doors to careers in legal services, real estate law offices, family law practices, and specialized areas like personal injury, intellectual property, and commercial law. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the paralegal profession continues growing, with a strong job outlook for qualified legal professionals.

Career Pathways in Paralegal Studies

  • Law firms
  • Corporate legal departments
  • Government agencies
  • Federal government offices
  • Legal services organizations
  • Real estate law offices
  • Family law practices
  • Personal injury law firms
  • Contract law specialists
  • Administrative agencies
  • Legal aid organizations

Placement Rate

Keiser University publishes the following in its 2025 Undergraduate Placement Rates report for AA Paralegal Studies.

EligiblePlacedIn FieldRelated Field%Placed%IF/RF
7264243188.9%76.4%

Keiser University’s notes on this report: “Does not include international campuses.” “Report as of April 2026, 16.43% has been verified through 3rd party.”

Although Keiser University provides employment placement assistance, it cannot promise or guarantee employment.

What to expect as a Keiser University student

Keiser University’s paralegal studies program gives you the legal education needed to launch a rewarding career supporting attorneys and legal teams. With flexible learning formats, experienced instructors, and comprehensive curriculum covering essential legal subjects, you gain the skills law firms and legal employers seek. Whether you plan to work in litigation support, transactional law, or specialized practice areas, our associate degree in paralegal studies provides the foundation for professional growth in the legal field.

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Top Questions About Earning a Paralegal Studies Degree

Can I get a paralegal degree online at Keiser University?
Yes. Keiser University’s Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies is offered online, with the option to study on campus or in a hybrid format if preferred. Students receive the same quality instruction, support, and resources across all delivery methods.
What's the difference between an associate and bachelor's degree in paralegal studies?
An associate degree in paralegal provides foundational training in legal research, legal writing, and core legal subjects, preparing graduates for entry level positions as legal assistants or paralegals. A bachelor’s degree offers deeper exploration of legal concepts, more specialized coursework, and can lead to advanced paralegal roles or law office management positions. Some students complete an associate degree, begin working in the legal field, then return for a bachelor’s degree to advance their legal career.
What careers can I pursue with an Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies?
Graduates can pursue paralegal and legal assistant positions in law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, real estate offices, and legal services organizations. Paralegals support attorneys by conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, managing case files, and assisting with legal proceedings across practice areas including family law, personal injury, contract law, criminal law, and more. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for paralegals and legal assistants remains competitive, with the national average salary varying by location, experience, and specialty area.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.
Is financial aid available for online students?
Absolutely. Online students pursuing an online degree can access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, including grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.
Are these programs accredited?
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. Although the paralegal studies program does not require programmatic accreditation, the program offers a robust and practical curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful paralegal career.
Can you become a paralegal with an associate degree?
Yes. An associate degree in paralegal studies provides the education and training needed to enter the paralegal profession. While some legal employers prefer or require a bachelor’s degree, many law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies hire paralegals with associate degrees, especially when candidates demonstrate strong research skills, writing abilities, and professional competencies. Earning your associate degree first, gaining work experience, then pursuing a bachelor’s degree later remains a common path in the legal field. As an example, Jodee Buck, a Keiser University Paralegal Studies graduate, works as a paralegal and she appreciates the variety of her daily work, which can range from helping an attorney prepare for trial to assisting with real estate closings.
How long does it take to get a paralegal studies degree?
The Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies typically takes approximately 20 months to complete. Students transferring credits from previous coursework may complete the degree program in less time. Contact the admissions team for more information about your specific timeline. Time to degree completion is an estimate, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
How much does it cost to earn this degree?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser University offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more information about the degree cost, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.
What courses are required in the associate program?
Courses in the Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies include foundational legal courses covering: Legal Research and Writing I Criminal Law Contracts Wills, Trusts and Estates Civil Litigation Torts Law Family Law Real Property Students also complete general education courses including Political Science, English Composition, Mathematics, Communications, and Natural Science. These general education requirements build the critical thinking, communication skills, and analytical abilities that legal professionals need throughout their careers. Your academic advisor will guide your course path based on your goals and any transfer credits.

Campus Address

Miami Campus
2101 NW 117th Ave
Miami, FL 33172

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist and doctorate degrees.

The Keiser University catalog lists no separate programmatic accreditation for this program.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential
Ready to get started?
Apply to Paralegal Studies at Miami Campus.
Paralegal Studies