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Looking for a new career direction?
Earn your degree online in as little as 14 months.
Prepare for a dynamic and growing career as a paralegal with an Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies from Marian University. Take control of your professional trajectory and join a field with a projected growth rate of 12 percent between 2020 and 2030.
In Marian's paralegal studies program, experienced attorneys and paralegals serve as instructors to guide and advise you throughout the program, so you are prepared to seize opportunities upon completion. You will grow from the insights and experiences of a legal professional in our 1:1 student-mentor program. Administrators and faculty carefully pair mentors with students who share an interest in a specialization to build relationships and network within the industry, even before graduation. Enter the workforce with skills sought after by legal firms, public and private corporations, government agencies, insurance and mortgage companies, financial institutions, and more.
Prepare for a new career in the legal field.
Conduct case law research.
Explain diverse civic issues and lawsuits.
Evaluate theories and positions on complex problems.
Assess legal issues on local, state, federal, and international levels.
Communicate researched facts, results, and findings.
Back up research and analysis with logical arguments.
Analyze the impact of social, political, and economic influences on systems.
Develop a career plan and social network.
Why become a paralegal?
Many paralegals find the most rewarding part of their job is the direct client contact, while others prefer a more research-based role. This intellectually challenging work utilizes your problem-solving, communication, research and analysis, and leadership skills.
Paralegals remain in high demand in organizations, extending far beyond the legal industry. Possible areas of specialization include family, criminal, environmental, personal injury, healthcare, medical malpractice, civil litigation, sports and entertainment, and international law. We'll work with you as you navigate your new career path.
GAIN HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE
You'll have opportunities to participate in an internship, externship, or job shadowing experience in your area of specialization.
FAST TRACK YOUR CAREER
The paralegal degree is totally online. Classes last just five weeks with 9 start dates a year, to accommodate your schedule.
FORM A STRONG FOUNDATION
Marian University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools.
Recognized and Awarded
How often do classes start?
Five-week classes begin three times a semester while eight-week* classes begin two times a semester.
*Eight-week courses are not available in the paralegal studies program.
Are Marian's online programs accredited?
How much does this online program cost?
Will my credits transfer?
Marian University accepts most 100-level or higher courses that were taken at a regionally accredited institution. To have a course considered, you must have earned a minimum of a C- or higher. Official transcripts for training programs and college credit exams are not required for admission; however, they may be submitted for credit evaluation. Examples include military documents, DD214, CLEP/DSST exams, and programs approved by the American Council on Education (ACE).
How many classes can I take at once?
Due to the accelerated nature of our online courses, we recommend taking no more than two classes at once. (Exceptions may be considered.)
Can I get financial aid for the online programs?
Financial aid is available for degree-seeking Marian students. Guest students (non-Marian students enrolled only in online prerequisites) do not qualify for financial aid.
See the Office of Financial Aid for more information.
Do I have to be online at a specific time for classes?
No. Students do not need to be logged in for classes at specific times. However, students will be expected to complete quizzes and exams within specified time periods.