Law
Paralegal
Support attorneys with research, document drafting, and case prep. The fastest legal-career entry — under a year with a certificate.
quick-startoffice-work
55
ROI · Strong
Investment vs return
Cost · time · demand normalized 0–100
Salary progression
What you'll earn over your career
$45k
$62k
$88k
Entry
Mid-career
Senior
10-yr outlook
+4%
+4% (Average)
Open positions
34,000
Estimated nationwide
Entry paths
How to get here
Multiple paths lead to this career. Compare time, cost, online vs in-person delivery, and program links.
Fastest ROI
Certification Online
Paralegal Certificate (ABA-approved)
Time
6–12 months
Cost
$2,000 – $12,000
Best path if you already have a degree.
Degree Hybrid
Associate in Paralegal Studies
Time
2 years
Cost
$5,000 – $25,000
Top programs
Entry path without prior degree.
Affiliate disclosure: Some of the program links above may be affiliate partnerships. If you enroll, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only link to programs we have actually reviewed against our methodology. See our methodology for how we evaluate schools.
Quick math
If you took the fastest path…
You'd train for
6–12 months
You'd spend (avg)
$7,000
Starting salary
$45,000
Mid-career
$62,000
Read more
Articles & resources
Sources: BLS OOH 2024 · NALA