Paralegal Studies

Keiser University’s Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies prepares students to support attorneys across transactional and litigation matters through comprehensive training in conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, managing cases, and understanding legal proceedings. The paralegal studies program combines general education courses with specialized legal courses covering civil litigation, criminal law, family law, contract law, tort law, and real property. Students gain practical knowledge of legal terminology, legal writing, and law office management while developing the research skills, writing skills, analytical skills, and organizational skills that legal assistants need in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. Through coursework emphasizing legal ethics, legal concepts, and professional standards, the degree program prepares students for entry level legal careers supporting attorneys in diverse practice areas including personal injury, intellectual property, commercial law, and family law. Successful completion of the paralegal studies associate degree equips graduates with the fundamental skills to contribute to legal teams, manage case files, draft legal memoranda, and assist with legal proceedings across the legal profession.

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.

The following objectives guide the paralegal studies program at Keiser University:

1. Educational Excellence: Deliver a curriculum that integrates the practical application of legal principles required for entry-level positions within the legal profession or upper-level studies.
2. Analytical / Critical Thinking Skills: Equip students with the critical thinking skills necessary for entry-level positions within the legal profession or upper-level studies.
3. Professional Competence: Foster a learning environment that promotes professionalism, ethical behavior, and effective communication for entry-level positions within the legal profession or upper-level studies
4. Career Readiness: Prepare graduates for entry-level positions within the legal profession by offering exposure to industry-standard practices and technologies.

None. Students can begin the paralegal studies program without specific prerequisites.

• Small class sizes that allow personalized attention and mentorship
• Experienced faculty with backgrounds in legal practice and education
• Hands-on training in legal research tools and law office technology
• Exposure to multiple areas of legal practice through diverse coursework
• Flexible learning with on-campus, online, and hybrid class options for working adults and traditional students

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, Stafford Loans), Florida state aid, and institutional scholarships available for qualified students.

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

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.

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 24 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.

Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. While the paralegal studies program does not require specialized programmatic accreditation, the program provides a robust curriculum aligned with industry standards and prepares students for successful paralegal careers.