We've compiled the most up-to-date information on these fully or mostly online Online Legal Services degree programs across the U.S. This data is accurate as of March 21, 2025. We carefully reviewed quality, affordability, and student outcomes to bring you the best options. Explore our updated rankings below to find the program that's right for you.
SDSU’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Online Degree Completion program focuses on the ways that different agencies and organizations work together to compose America’s intricate criminal justice system. This program is designed to give you the skills you need to protect and serve the members of your community. Whether you’re interested in law enforcement, social services, or law school, this online degree completion program will help you earn your bachelor’s degree. The coursework will prepare you for employment in many different fields, including law, probation and parole, social services, public administration, support security, law enforcement, corrections, government, and legal fields. This degree will also prepare you for law school or a graduate program in a criminal justice-related field. It is ideal for working professionals who have taken some college courses but were unable to earn a degree. By accepting some of your existing college experience as prerequisites for our degree program, you’ll be able to earn a criminal justice degree that works for you. Upon graduation, you’ll hold the same criminal justice degree as our on-campus graduates.
["Advanced understanding of America\u2019s criminal justice system", "Understanding of how laws are created and enforced", "Understanding of the potential outcomes of those laws in diverse communities", "Knowledge of social justice issues such as systemic racism, genocide, and equitable access", "Understanding of the role that our nation\u2019s criminal justice system has played in these issues", "Understanding of how law enforcement, social services, and public administration are working together to make justice more fair and equitable."]
The Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies prepares students with the knowledge and skills needed to meet the standards of industry proficiency, professional integrity, and academic excellence that are required to serve the legal community. The program emphasizes critical and analytical thinking, professional legal writing, legal research and investigative skills, and effective communication in the legal profession. Students will also develop management, organizational, and technological skills necessary to assist in the delivery of legal services. The curriculum covers various areas of law, including contract law, tort law, criminal law, family law, real estate law, and estate law. Graduates will understand the ethical rules governing paralegals and attorneys, and the emerging role of the paralegal in the legal profession. This program can also prepare students for graduate-level studies.
["Utilize critical and analytical thinking skills in paralegal work assignments.", "Employ professional legal writing skills.", "Develop and utilize legal research and investigative skills.", "Communicate effectively in the legal profession.", "Develop and utilize the management and organizational skills required to be an effective paralegal.", "Identify, explain, and utilize the technology necessary to assist in the delivery of legal services.", "Identify, explain, and abide by the ethical rules governing the conduct of paralegals and attorneys, including the limitations on the practice of law by non-lawyers, and the practical ramifications of the requirement that paralegals work under the direct supervision of lawyers.", "Articulate, explain, and promote the emerging role of the paralegal in the legal profession, the distinction and diversity of the different areas of legal practice, and the paralegal\u2019s part in efficiently expanding the delivery of legal services to the public."]
The Paralegal Studies BA program at Loyola University Chicago prepares individuals for essential roles in the legal field, assisting attorneys with research, documentation, and case preparation across various settings. It is designed to refine the skills of those with an associate degree in paralegal studies, enabling them to meet the bachelor’s degree requirement sought by most large legal employers. The ABA-approved program includes a Dual Litigation & Corporate Practice Certificate, opening doors to career success. The curriculum comprises 40 credit hours towards a 120-credit-hour bachelor’s degree. Classes are available during five 8-week sessions throughout the year, held weekday evenings (and occasionally Saturday mornings) online or at Loyola's Water Tower Campus. All courses are offered online at least once per year and the degree can be pursued full-time or part-time. The program enhances writing, research, and paralegal skills to expand career opportunities.
["Refine writing and research skills", "Exercise critical thinking and problem solving", "Develop written and verbal communication skills", "Gain proficiency in legal technology", "Develop sound ethics"]
The online legal studies degree grants a strong understanding of the legal system, legal research, legal writing, and professionalism within the field. Courses cover advocacy, family matters, international law, and more. By exploring the intersection of law and business, and law and technology, students stay at the forefront of this ever-evolving field. All full-time faculty of the program are graduates of American Bar Association-approved law schools, and students are encouraged to leverage their role as advisors in planning their studies and post-graduation objectives. The program offers specializations such as public law, litigation, criminal law, transactional law and others. With an internship or capstone requirement, students are even better prepared for the path they choose after graduation.
["Preparation for law school", "Understand the basic principles of the law and the role and function of the legal system"]
National University’s Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies program is designed to prepare you to become an indispensable member of a legal team. Our skilled faculty will help you become proficient in understanding legal terminology, identifying legal issues, applying basic legal analysis, and conducting legal research using the latest technology. Our ABA-approved paralegal program combines a comprehensive academic curriculum with practical education to prepare you for the role of the paralegal in a legal environment. Earn your BS in Paralegal Studies and prepare for a fast-paced, dynamic career in the legal field. This program is offered online.
null
The first Bachelor of Arts in Law degree in the nation available at the University of Arizona–is a result of a unique partnership between the James E. Rogers College of Law and the School of Government and Public Policy at the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences. As one of the nation's most proven and trusted BA Law degrees, this program will teach you to "think like a lawyer" when solving problems and developing arguments. You will learn foundational aspects of law, such as criminal and civil procedure, contracts, and torts, as well as competency in key jurisprudential concepts, doctrines, and theories relevant to the common law. The BA in Law empowers you to get a jump-start on your career as a legislative and regulatory affairs analyst, mediator, foreign service officer, related personnel legal translator, or legal advocate, to name a few. By earning this degree, you may also qualify for an accelerated path to law school or the University's accelerated master's option, where you can earn a Master of Legal Studies in just one extra semester. You also have the opportunity to choose a coursework track that prepares you to pursue a license as a Legal Paraprofessional and qualifies you to sit for the Arizona state exam. With a BA in Law in hand, you can go on to attend a JD program to become a lawyer or enter many other legal professions directly after graduating. If you are passionate about studying law, the BA in Law may be a great option.
["Analysis of complex ideas", "Compliance and regulatory affairs", "Composing legal or policy briefs and papers", "Critical thinking", "Evaluating data", "High-level research and writing", "Persuasion and presentation", "Thinking like a lawyer", "Understanding legal doctrine and procedures"]
The Online Bachelor's Degree in Legal Studies at University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is a 120-credit program designed to build essential skills in legal theory and analysis. It covers contemporary civil, criminal, and administrative law, fostering career-relevant skills in writing, critical thinking, and legal research. The program focuses on applying case law, navigating the litigation process, and writing legal reports, preparing students for law-related environments and further studies in law school. UMGC caters to working professionals with convenient online courses and a generous transfer credit policy, potentially saving students time and money. The curriculum is regularly updated to ensure relevance, focusing on social justice, legal resources, legal document development, and information analysis, equipping graduates with the ability to excel in various legal roles.
["Legal research", "Negotiation", "Risk analysis", "Proofreading", "Legal discovery", "Critical thinking", "Writing"]
The legal studies online major is designed for students who are seeking a bachelor’s degree so that they can pursue law school or other legal careers. Our online curriculum includes courses in public law, business law, comparative and international law, theory and ethics, and public policy. You will also learn legal research methods and writing, and complete a “real world” internship in a court, a private firm, a legal advocacy group, or government. This major is designed with input from our successful graduates. Legal Studies is an interdisciplinary major where we focus on the knowledge and skills necessary for you find professional and personal success. You will also have the opportunity to choose from many elective course options in areas that interest you.
["Knowledge of legal systems", "Analyze and interpret legal materials and caselaw", "Legal research and writing", "Effective communication using appropriate tools and technologies"]
This online degree program helps you prepare for a career in a variety of fields that require knowledge of the law and legal processes. As a law and society student, 15 credits of core online course work will include legal brief–writing and the philosophy of law and legal ethics. Throughout your studies, you can master the foundational concepts needed to critically analyze arguments and detect careless language use and fallacies. The prescribed and supporting courses in this program focus on contemporary issues in U.S. law and ethics. Many different course options are available to fulfill the remainder of the 120 credits required for the program, allowing you to customize the degree to meet your specific goals.
["Legal Knowledge", "Logic", "Rhetoric", "Research", "Legal Writing"]
The Bachelor of Arts in Government with an Emphasis in Legal Studies at Grand Canyon University offers a pathway combining theoretical knowledge with hands-on application. Based in policy and politics, this program provides an interdisciplinary approach that is rooted in a classical liberal arts education and examines the intersections of Communication, Justice studies, Philosophy, Business, and Theology. This legal studies emphasis can serve as a foundational framework for those interested in pursuing entry into law school or public service. As a student, you are exposed to an intensive exploration in research and writing that challenges you to develop your critical reasoning capabilities, communication skills and sense of servant leadership. You will study the founding principles of the American government, as well as its constitutional framework and governing institutions. Historical perspectives and contemporary legal issues are also examined.
["Classic and contemporary expressions of political thought and processes", "Qualitative and quantitative political research methods", "Public policy in the federal government", "Legal reasoning, analysis and practical legal research", "Diplomatic relations, international processes and governance"]
Stevenson University Online’s Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies is fully approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) and is designed for students who want a flexible and convenient education with the confidence that their degree meets the high standards of today’s legal professions. Upon completion of the program, our graduates are fully prepared to contribute as skilled and knowledgeable members of legal teams. The program equips students with specialized skills employers seek in various sectors, including law firms, financial institutions, insurance, real estate, business, human resources, and government. Graduates will gain skills in legal investigation, research, trial preparation, case and document review, witness interviews, and legal document preparation.
["Legal investigation, research, and discovery", "Trial preparation and litigation support", "Case and document review", "Witness interviews", "Court filing, contract, and legal document preparation"]
The Bachelor of Science in Legal Support and Services program is designed to prepare students for a career in various sectors, including legal, business, government, health care, banking, real estate, or service industries. The program aims to equip students with analytical thinking, reading comprehension, legal writing, and communication skills, along with the practical and technical skills required in the legal field and beyond. Students will understand principles of justice, natural law, and civil rights, research legal sources, apply legal theories, and exhibit professionalism in legal settings. An optional concentration in paralegal studies is available. The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) recognizes this program as meeting coursework criteria for the Certified Paralegal Examination.
["Understand the principles of justice, natural law, and civil rights.", "Research legal sources and apply them to actual scenarios using analysis and argument.", "Apply legal theories and research data to real-world social, political, and economic issues.", "Exhibit professionalism while assisting with legal proceedings or investigations, managing technology, and more."]
EKU’s bachelor’s degree in paralegal science prepares students to successfully enter and advance within the paralegal workforce. Students leave the program with a comprehensive understanding of the law balanced with a respected liberal arts background. A programmatic focus on writing, research, communication, and critical thinking, ensures our graduates successfully enter the workforce and enjoy a competitive edge in the job market. The paralegal program is a 100% online program. A minimum of 9 semester credit hours of legal specialty coursework are completed through synchronous online instruction.
["Writing", "Research", "Communication", "Critical thinking"]
The Legal Studies Degree at the University of Memphis offers students a flexible and comprehensive pathway into the legal profession, and is fully available online through UofM Global. This Bachelor of Legal Studies program provides a solid foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of law, equipping graduates with the skills needed to provide valuable legal support services in a wide range of settings. The program focuses on four core disciplines: Theory, Process, Application, and Ethics of Law; Legal and Administrative Research and Investigation; Law-Related Technologies; and Professional Decorum and Communication Skills. Graduates will possess unique skill sets that make them indispensable in addressing critical legal issues, regulatory compliance, and policy matters. The curriculum is available as both a major and a minor and can be completed entirely online through UofM Global. Highly qualified students may take advantage of the 3+3 Program, an accelerated pathway that allows students to complete their Bachelor of Professional Studies (BPS) degree and Juris Doctor (JD) degree in just six years in collaboration with the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law. By earning the legal studies degree online, students are prepared to enter a variety of fields, including criminal justice, corporate law, healthcare law, government agencies, and non-profit organizations.
["Understanding of foundational principles that govern the legal system and the ethical considerations involved in legal practice.", "Essential research skills that are crucial in legal research and in building effective case strategies.", "Use of modern tools and technologies that enhance legal work, including legal databases and case management software.", "Mastery of the professional etiquette and communication skills needed to interact effectively in legal and professional environments."]
The Online Legal Studies Degree at Bellevue University is designed to help students accelerate their path toward a pre-law degree and a career advocating for justice. The courses are designed to develop your critical thinking and reasoning skills from a legal, ethical, and logical standpoint, all while providing a solid foundation of the law and legal system. Students are taught by experienced faculty with real-world knowledge of their field. It prepares students with the critical thinking needed for a career in law, along with the practical knowledge to apply experience with legal principles, legal writing, research and procedures in real-world applications. Also, if this is the next step on your journey to law school, check out more about Pre-Law on our Pre-professional Programs page and speak to an advisor about your interests. The program has an option for accelerated cohort.
["Writing skills", "Critical-thinking skills", "Communication skills", "Ability to evaluate legal disciplines and analyze complex legal concepts", "Ability to relate legal principles to social structural consequences", "Apply principles of legal ethics"]
Post University's Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies, offered both on campus in Waterbury, Connecticut, and online, is designed for those interested in a future in law. The program cultivates a deeper understanding of various areas of the law within an ethical framework. It provides learning opportunities to develop practical skills in legal research and writing, civil litigation, real estate closings, probate practice, family law, environmental law, intellectual property practice, business organizations, and bankruptcy practice. The coursework also facilitates the building and honing of professional skills in writing and ethical decision-making. While this degree is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any legal credential, such as a state law license or a paralegal certification, it is designed to build a foundation of insights and practical skills to attain organizational abilities, use technology, participate as a team player in the delivery of legal services under the supervision of a practicing attorney, and communicate in writing and speech more effectively and professionally.
["Attain a professional level of organizational abilities", "Make better use of the technology involved in the delivery of legal services", "Participate as a team player in the delivery of legal services under the supervision of a practicing attorney", "Develop an understanding of various specialized areas of the law", "Communicate in writing and speech more effectively and professionally", "Adhere to ethical rules in the legal field"]
The Paralegal Studies BAS program is designed to train students for careers as paralegals in law firms, governmental entities, and corporate legal departments. Paralegals work under the supervision of attorneys to provide non-clerical professional support in the delivery of legal services to clients and the community. Paralegals are not licensed to practice law. Many courses in this program are now offered in an online format in addition to traditional face-to-face classroom instruction. The American Bar Association (ABA) requires students to take a minimum of nine (9) credits of legal specialty courses through synchronous instruction. Synchronous instruction then may include traditional in-person class time or mandatory remote attendance at specified class times via Zoom. These virtual classes require the same attention as a face-to-face classes along with a reliable internet connection.
["Advanced critical thinking and analytical skills", "Communication and organizational skills", "Technical skills, including legal research and writing", "Ability to deliver professional and ethical legal services", "Advanced knowledge and understanding of the American legal system"]
South University’s online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies program can give you a strong foundation in general education, analytical and critical thinking skills, theoretical legal concepts, and practical legal applications. The Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies can provide you with the relevant skills and experience to excel in an entry-level paralegal position* within a law firm, bank, insurance company, governmental agency, or corporation. Through the in-depth legal coursework, you can learn how to manage challenging assignments under the supervision of a licensed attorney. *South University does not promise or guarantee licensure, employment, or salary amounts.
null
The Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies is a four-year degree program designed to prepare new entrants into the paralegal field and provide opportunities for practicing paralegal professionals to enhance their career credentials. Students will be prepared to participate as efficient and effective members of legal teams. Career opportunities include positions in law firms, government agencies, legal services offices, corporations, professional and trade associations, banks, real estate organizations, and other public- and private-sector businesses. The program combines specialized legal training courses with a strong liberal arts foundation, reinforcing verbal and written communication, scholarly research techniques, and critical and analytical thinking, which are crucial for successful interaction and professional service to future legal clients.
["Verbal and written communication", "Scholarly research", "Critical and analytical thinking"]
The Bachelor of Science degree in legal studies at National Paralegal College provides students with a rigorous academic foundation in a broad range of subjects in legal studies, along with a foundation in business, economics, English, and the social sciences. The program also exposes students to advanced legal topics and career-oriented skills. The curriculum is designed to prepare graduates for employment as paralegals in various settings, including law firms, corporate legal departments, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. Additionally, the program serves as a pathway for students who wish to pursue graduate studies. The degree requires completion of 120 credits and covers diverse topics such as torts, contracts, legal research, writing, civil litigation, professional responsibility, and legal ethics. Students must also fulfill general education requirements in English, Mathematics, Natural Science, Social Science, and Communications.
["Written legal communication skills", "Basic legal research skills", "Basic legal analysis skills", "Critical thinking skills", "Preparation of basic legal documents", "Legal technology proficiency", "Understanding of ethical considerations in legal scenarios", "Advanced practical legal skills", "Mathematical reasoning skills", "Scientific method application"]
The online Bachelor of Professional Studies in Public Safety is a flexible degree option designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary for various roles within the public safety sector, including law enforcement, security, emergency management, and corrections. The curriculum emphasizes crucial human skills such as cultural awareness, conflict resolution, and effective communication, which are essential for success in public safety roles. The program is structured to maximize the use of previously earned college credits, potentially reducing both time and expenses. Students can customize their coursework to focus on areas like management, human resources, or agency-specific topics, making it suitable for those seeking promotions or career changes. A unique partnership with the Tulsa Police Department allows students to incorporate the Tulsa Police Academy into their occupational specialization, earning 15 credit hours towards their degree upon acceptance and completion of the academy.
["Communication", "Critical thinking", "Interpersonal skills", "Understanding of mental health issues", "Knowledge of policy and law"]
Madonna University's ABA-approved Paralegal Studies program is recognized for excellence since 1984. The curriculum, taught by experienced attorneys, provides the practical skills and legal knowledge needed for success in the legal landscape. It offers flexible learning options—online and on-campus—and required internships to ensure you're prepared for real-world legal challenges. Graduates become vital members of the legal profession, equipped to support attorneys in critical legal work. The program also provides a robust foundation for those aspiring to further their legal education, emphasizing critical thinking, legal research, and writing skills essential for success in law school and other graduate programs. The program prepares students for diverse legal roles, including litigation support, corporate law, estate planning, real estate law, and positions in the government and public sector.
["Legal research", "Legal writing", "Critical thinking", "Case preparation", "Drafting pleadings and motions", "Contract drafting", "Due diligence", "Estate planning"]
Georgia State’s online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree, designed by award-winning faculty in criminal justice and criminology research, is designed to help students advance in their careers. The program offers two academic concentrations: Crime and Justice or Legal Studies. The Crime and Justice concentration provides a blend of traditional criminal justice curriculum and forward-thinking emphasis on digital criminology. The Legal Studies concentration is designed for criminal justice majors desiring more intensive exposure to law, often in preparation for law school. Students may also elect to pursue a minor in Digital Criminology along with the bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. The curriculum stresses an integrated view of the criminal justice system, highlighting relationships among the many different institutions involved and the need for cooperation and humane practices across law enforcement, the courts, corrections and the juvenile justice system. Students will study how the criminal justice system was designed and examine the parts of the system, including the roles of victims and offenders, paired with an examination of the causes and consequences of traditional and digital crime.
["Understanding of the criminal justice system", "Analytical and critical thinking", "Communication skills", "Knowledge of criminal justice theory and practice", "Understanding of causes and consequences of crime"]
As a Legal Studies major, you will gain a comprehensive overview of legal concepts, legal terminology, and the many ways in which the law affects nearly every aspect of our lives. Your education will familiarize you with the roles and limitations of our legal institutions. You will also discuss the changing dynamics within the legal profession and explore the intersection between legal aid and public service. A legal studies education arms you with practical, real-world knowledge of American law, legal theory, and the inner workings of our federal and state court systems. Your coursework will help you to better understand civil and criminal legal procedures. Additionally, you will discuss the ethical guidelines that help shape the legal world as you develop core skills in legal research, legal reasoning, and legal writing. Majoring in Legal Studies can help you attain the legal literacy necessary for understanding our state and federal legal institutions.
["Legal research", "Legal reasoning", "Legal writing"]
null
Find answers to common questions about Online Legal Services degrees, career paths, and more.
Explore FAQsDiscover helpful tools, guides, and materials to enhance your Online Legal Services education.
View ResourcesExplore potential career paths, job outlooks, and opportunities in Online Legal Services.
Explore CareersFind the best Online Legal Services degree programs and training options in your state