Paralegal Careers
Earning a paralegal certificate online provides professionals with the technological tools, legal writing abilities and research skills needed to expand their career opportunities in the legal field and throughout a variety of industries. Paralegals (also sometimes referred to as legal assistants) are typically employed by law firms; however, they can also work in corporate settings or in varied levels of government. The duties of a paralegal can change depending on the services their employer provides. Some paralegals may focus on real estate law, for example, while others may assist attorneys in litigation or business law.
Paralegals work in a variety of industries including:
- Entertainment/Media
- Financial Services
- Healthcare
- Hospitality
- Insurance
- Pharmaceuticals
- Private Consulting
- Real Estate
- Retail
- Technology/Software
- Telecommunications
- Transportation
The field is growing much faster than the national average with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a growth rate of 4% through 2032 with over 354,300 paralegal jobs in 2022.
A career as a paralegal can also be lucrative compared to other similar positions. In some areas of the United States, paralegals can make more than $100,000 per year. The salary of a paralegal also improves with experience level:
| Job Title | Median Salary* |
|---|---|
| Paralegal Manager (15+ years) | $146,642 |
| Paralegal IV (7+ years) | $122,541 |
| Paralegal Supervisor (3-5 years) | $116,874 |
| Paralegal III (4-7 years) | $100,861 |
| Paralegal II (2 years) | $86,951 |
| Paralegal I (0-2 years) | $75,349 |
| Source: Salary.com, September 2023 *Salary information will differ by geography. The median salary information listed is specific to the Boston, MA area. | |
Paralegal Career Guide
Download the paralegal career guide for more detailed salary information and to learn how a paralegal certificate can improve your job prospects. This helpful guide also includes additional information related to job opportunities, career trajectory and pathways to becoming a paralegal. Contact an enrollment advisor at (888) 700-3966 with questions related to your specific career goals.
Industry Resources
The paralegal field benefits from a broad network of professional associations that support its practitioners. Here are just some of the organizations available to anyone interested in learning more about the field and engaging with other established paralegals.
- American Alliance of Paralegals
- American Association for Paralegal Education
- American Bar Association
- Association of Legal Administrators
- Criminal Justice Degree Schools Career Center
- Massachusetts Paralegal Association
- National Association for Legal Professionals
- National Association of Legal Assistants
- National Federation of Paralegal Associations
- Paralegal 411 Career Listings
Request a Brochure
To learn more about the online Paralegal Studies Program, contact an enrollment advisor at (888) 700-3966 or fill out the form below to download a free brochure.