Best Paralegal Training Programs in Pennsylvania
Exploring the best paralegal training programs in Pennsylvania? This page reviews 20 leading training providers, helping you find the right fit for your career aspirations in the legal field.
*American Paralegal Association, Baltimore, Maryland
The American Paralegal Association in Baltimore, Maryland, offers paralegal training tailored to both new entrants and experienced professionals seeking to enhance their skills. The program blends theoretical knowledge with practical applications, delivered through both online and in-person formats. Students can expect to emerge well-prepared for diverse legal environments, equipped with both foundational and specialized legal knowledge.
Best for individuals seeking a flexible learning format that combines online education with optional in-person classes.
Not ideal for those looking for a program focused heavily on in-court experiences or trial preparation.
Strengths
- Offers a unique blend of online and optional in-person classes, providing flexibility unmatched by providers like New York Paralegal which is predominantly online.
- Curriculum includes both foundational legal theories and specialized areas, providing a broader educational scope compared to more focused programs like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
- Provides real-world applications and case simulations, which are less emphasized in the offerings from Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
Trade-offs
- Less focus on trial preparation compared to programs like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC, which may offer more in-depth courtroom procedures.
- Fewer networking opportunities with legal professionals compared to programs situated in major legal hubs like New York or Washington, DC.
Best Virtual Paralegal LLC
Best Virtual Paralegal LLC offers specialized training in paralegal studies, tailored for those seeking comprehensive knowledge and skills in the legal field. The program, based in Mt Pleasant Mills, Pennsylvania, delivers its curriculum through a blend of online and interactive content, making it suitable for remote learners and working professionals. Graduates can expect to emerge with a strong foundation in paralegal practices and the competencies required to support legal services effectively.
Best for working adults or remote learners needing flexible learning schedules.
Not ideal for those seeking traditional, in-person classroom experiences.
Strengths
- Offers a unique blend of online and interactive training, distinct from the more traditional formats at institutions like New York Paralegal.
- Focuses specifically on paralegal training, unlike broader legal education providers such as the American Law Institute CLE.
- Located in a less congested area compared to urban centers like Washington, DC or New York, providing a quieter, focused learning environment.
Trade-offs
- Limited to only paralegal training, offering fewer broad legal educational opportunities compared to the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
- Less network opportunities in a small town setting compared to providers in major cities like Baltimore or New York.
American Law Institute CLE
American Law Institute CLE offers a specialized Paralegal training program in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, tailored for those aspiring to excel in legal support roles. The training is delivered in a hybrid format, combining online theory with hands-on clinical experiences to suit working professionals and full-time students alike. Graduates can expect to leave the program with a solid grounding in legal principles and practical skills ready for immediate application in various legal settings.
Best for individuals seeking a blend of online and in-person training to advance their careers in the legal field.
Not ideal for those looking for a fully online course with flexible pacing.
Strengths
- Offers a unique blend of online learning and hands-on clinical experiences, distinguishing it from fully online programs like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Located in Philadelphia, providing advantageous networking opportunities in one of the major legal hubs compared to programs like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- Focuses extensively on practical skills, ensuring graduates are job-ready, unlike more theory-focused competitors.
Trade-offs
- Less flexibility in scheduling compared to fully online providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Higher intensity and commitment requirement may be challenging for those with significant personal or professional obligations.
Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University
The Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University in Washington, Pennsylvania, delivers a focused, practical education in paralegal studies. Designed to serve both full-time students and working professionals, the program offers both classroom-based and online learning options. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the legal workforce with a solid foundation of legal knowledge and practical skills.
Best for individuals seeking a versatile paralegal education that accommodates both online and in-person learning preferences.
Not ideal for those seeking exclusively short-term, workshop-style paralegal training.
Strengths
- Offers a blend of online and classroom learning, providing flexibility not found in the exclusively in-person programs at American Law Institute CLE and Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- Located in Washington, Pennsylvania, provides a unique regional advantage for students looking to connect with legal professionals in both the Pittsburgh and broader Pennsylvania legal markets.
- The curriculum's strong emphasis on the integration of theory and practice exceeds the more theory-centric approach at institutions like New York Paralegal.
Trade-offs
- Less focus on continuous professional development post-graduation compared to organizations like the American Paralegal Association.
- Does not provide the specialized virtual paralegal training that Best Virtual Paralegal LLC offers.
Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC
The Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC, offers a specialized Paralegal program designed to equip students with comprehensive legal knowledge and practical skills. The program is delivered through a blend of online and classroom formats, catering to both full-time students and working professionals. Graduates can expect to emerge with a strong foundation in legal principles and hands-on experience, ready to enter the legal workforce.
Best for aspiring paralegals seeking a blend of online and in-person training in the DC area.
Not ideal for students looking for fully in-person, traditional classroom settings.
Strengths
- Unique blend of online and classroom learning, which is less common among competitors like New York Paralegal which focuses more on traditional models.
- Strong network of local law firms offering internship opportunities, providing practical experience not always available through providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Focused curriculum on both federal and state law, which is broader than the curriculum typically offered by specialized providers like American Law Institute CLE.
Trade-offs
- Limited to paralegal training, offering fewer specialized legal education options compared to broader providers like Catholic University.
- Less flexibility in course scheduling compared to fully online providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
New York Paralegal
New York Paralegal offers specialized paralegal training tailored to both beginners and those looking to advance their careers in New York and Pennsylvania. The program combines classroom learning with practical, real-world applications, making it ideal for individuals seeking comprehensive, hands-on paralegal training. Graduates can expect to emerge with a strong understanding of legal concepts and the practical skills needed to thrive in various legal environments.
Best for individuals seeking a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical legal skills in the New York and Pennsylvania regions.
Not ideal for those looking for online-only paralegal education.
Strengths
- Focus on local legal systems of New York and Pennsylvania provides region-specific training not covered by national providers like American Law Institute CLE.
- Combines classroom learning with real-world legal scenarios, offering a more practical approach compared to the more academic-focused Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
- Emphasizes practical skills in document preparation and case management, which is less prominent in offerings from Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
Trade-offs
- Limited to classroom-based learning, which may not be as flexible as the online courses offered by Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Does not provide the broad range of elective courses available at larger institutions like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
Plaza College
Plaza College in Forest Hills, Pennsylvania, provides a specialized Paralegal training program that combines classroom instruction with practical, hands-on experience. This program is particularly designed for individuals seeking a focused entry into the legal field or paralegals aiming to advance their careers. Graduates can expect to emerge with a strong foundation in legal principles and practical skills, ready to serve effectively in various legal settings.
Best for individuals looking for a career-focused and practical legal education in Pennsylvania.
Not ideal for those seeking online or distance learning paralegal programs.
Strengths
- Located in Forest Hills, PA, provides a regional advantage for students looking to network and start careers in the Pennsylvania legal system compared to providers in other states.
- Combination of classroom learning and practical experiences offers a balanced approach, setting it apart from online-focused programs like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Focused solely on paralegal training, which may offer more specialized and concentrated coursework than broader providers like the American Law Institute CLE.
Trade-offs
- Limited to in-person classes, which may not be as flexible as the fully online programs offered by providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Lacks the breadth of additional legal programs offered by institutions like Catholic University, which could be a disadvantage for students seeking varied legal education options.
Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law PC Kingston
Fellerman & Ciarimboli Law PC in Kingston provides specialized Paralegal training tailored for individuals seeking a career in legal support services. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, delivered through a blend of classroom learning and hands-on experiences. It is particularly suited for those aspiring to work in legal environments where a deep understanding of personal injury law is beneficial. Graduates can expect to emerge well-prepared for roles that demand both legal knowledge and practical skills.
Best for individuals aiming for careers in legal support within the personal injury law sector.
Not ideal for those looking for broad, non-specialized legal training or in corporate legal departments.
Strengths
- Focused curriculum on personal injury law, distinguishing it from more generalized programs like those at American Law Institute CLE.
- Integration of real-world legal scenarios, offering practical experience not available in all online-focused programs such as Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- In-person training component provides direct lawyer interaction, a feature less emphasized in online-only formats like those offered by the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
Trade-offs
- Less flexibility in scheduling compared to fully online providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Narrow focus on personal injury law may not suit those interested in a broader legal education offered by institutions like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
Mifflin County Academy’s Practical Nursing Program
Mifflin County Academy's Practical Nursing Program in Lewistown, Pennsylvania, offers specialized training in the Paralegal field. The curriculum is designed to suit individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of legal processes and documentation. With a blend of classroom learning and practical, real-world application, the program prepares graduates for direct entry into the paralegal workforce or further legal studies.
Best for individuals seeking a career transition into the legal field with a balance of classroom and practical training.
Not ideal for students looking for a fully online paralegal training program.
Strengths
- Offers a unique blend of classroom learning and real-world legal scenarios, unlike fully online programs such as Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Located in Lewistown, provides a localized option for residents compared to distant providers like American Paralegal Association in Baltimore.
- Focuses exclusively on paralegal training, allowing for a more concentrated curriculum than broader legal education providers like American Law Institute CLE.
Trade-offs
- Lacks the flexibility of fully online providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- May not offer the breadth of courses found in larger, multi-disciplinary institutions like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
Peirce College
Peirce College in Philadelphia offers a specialized Paralegal training program designed to equip students with practical legal skills and foundational knowledge. The program provides a blend of classroom learning and online courses, making it flexible for working professionals or those with family commitments. Graduates can expect to enter the legal field with a strong understanding of various legal processes and a readiness to support legal teams effectively.
Best for working adults seeking a flexible program that combines online and in-person education.
Not ideal for those seeking a program with frequent live, on-campus legal clinics or interactive face-to-face settings.
Strengths
- Flexible scheduling with a mix of online and traditional classes, unlike programs at Best Virtual Paralegal LLC which are fully virtual.
- Located in Philadelphia, providing access to a large legal market compared to more regionally limited providers like Baltimore's American Paralegal Association.
- Strong focus on practical skills through case studies and simulations, differentiating it from more theory-heavy programs like those at American Law Institute CLE.
Trade-offs
- Less direct legal network exposure compared to programs located in Washington D.C., such as the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- Limited on-campus activities, which might be a drawback compared to the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
Luzerne County Community College
Luzerne County Community College provides a comprehensive Paralegal training program in Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, catering to students seeking practical legal training in a classroom setting. The program is designed to equip students with essential paralegal skills through a mix of theoretical and hands-on legal coursework. It is ideally suited for individuals aspiring to start or advance their careers in various legal environments, preparing them effectively for real-world legal challenges.
Best for individuals seeking a traditional classroom experience in paralegal studies with hands-on legal training.
Not ideal for students looking for fully online paralegal programs or those outside the Northeastern Pennsylvania region.
Strengths
- Offers a classroom-based educational environment which provides direct interaction with faculty and peers, differentiating it from fully online programs like those offered by Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Focuses on practical legal training through simulated legal proceedings, providing a more hands-on approach compared to more lecture-focused programs like the American Law Institute CLE.
- Located in Nanticoke, Pennsylvania, making it accessible for students in Northeastern Pennsylvania, unlike distant providers such as the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
Trade-offs
- Lacks the flexibility of fully online programs offered by providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Limited geographic reach compared to national or online-based programs such as the American Paralegal Association.
Lehigh Carbon Community College
Lehigh Carbon Community College, located in Schnecksville, Pennsylvania, offers a comprehensive Paralegal training program designed to equip students with practical legal skills and knowledge. The program features a blend of classroom instruction and real-world applications, making it ideal for individuals seeking a career-focused education in legal support. Graduates can expect to leave with the competencies required for immediate entry into the paralegal field.
Best for individuals looking for a hands-on, career-oriented education in the legal field.
Not ideal for those seeking a fully online paralegal program.
Strengths
- Located in Schnecksville, offers a local option for students in Pennsylvania compared to distant providers like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- Combination of classroom learning and practical legal training provides a balanced educational experience, differing from fully virtual setups like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Focuses solely on Paralegal training, which may offer more tailored and specific resources than broader providers like the American Law Institute CLE.
Trade-offs
- Lacks the national reach and networking opportunities of larger organizations like the American Paralegal Association.
- Does not provide the diversity of advanced legal specialties found at institutions like Catholic University.
Blackstone Career Institute
Blackstone Career Institute in Allentown, Pennsylvania offers a specialized Paralegal training program tailored for those seeking a flexible learning format. This program is entirely online, making it suitable for working professionals or individuals needing to balance studies with other commitments. Graduates are well-prepared to enter the legal field with a strong foundation in paralegal studies.
Best for working adults or those needing flexibility in their educational schedule.
Not ideal for students seeking in-person classroom interaction and real-time peer collaboration.
Strengths
- Offers a fully online program, providing more flexibility compared to the classroom-based Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
- Focused curriculum on paralegal studies unlike broader offerings at institutions like American Law Institute CLE.
- Provides practical assignments that mirror real-world legal tasks, giving an edge over providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC that may not offer simulated practical experiences.
Trade-offs
- Lacks the immediate, in-person faculty interaction found at traditional institutions like Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- May not provide as extensive networking opportunities as location-based programs like the American Paralegal Association.
ABA Approved Paralegal Programs Directory
The ABA Approved Paralegal Programs Directory offers comprehensive training in paralegal studies in Pennsylvania, focusing on both the theoretical and practical aspects of the profession. The program is structured to accommodate various learning preferences, including classroom-based and clinical experiences, as well as online options for remote learners. It is ideally suited for students seeking a balanced approach to paralegal education, preparing graduates for diverse opportunities in the legal field.
Best for students seeking a flexible, well-rounded education in paralegal studies with ABA approval.
Not ideal for those looking for specialized non-ABA recognized niche law programs.
Strengths
- Offers a blend of online and in-person training options, providing flexibility unmatched by providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC which focuses only on virtual formats.
- Incorporates clinical experiences and internships, offering practical training that goes beyond the theoretical focus seen in programs like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
- ABA approval ensures a recognized and respected certification, distinguishing it from non-ABA programs like American Law Institute CLE.
Trade-offs
- Less focus on specialized legal fields compared to the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- Higher cost of tuition compared to non-ABA approved programs like American Paralegal Association.
Canadian College of Online Training
Canadian College of Online Training provides a specialized Paralegal training program tailored for students in Ontario, but accessible from anywhere due to its fully online format. This program is designed for individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of legal principles and practical skills necessary for the paralegal profession. Graduates can expect to emerge with the competencies required to perform effectively in various legal environments.
Best for individuals seeking flexible, comprehensive online paralegal training.
Not ideal for those preferring in-person classroom interaction or immediate geographical proximity to legal centers for networking.
Strengths
- Offers a fully online program, providing greater flexibility compared to the in-person requirements at institutions like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- Focuses exclusively on Canadian law, which is advantageous for students intending to practice in Ontario compared to broader programs offered by American Law Institute CLE.
- Integrates virtual simulations for practical training, a feature less emphasized in programs like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
Trade-offs
- Lacks the direct networking opportunities that geographically centered programs like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC provide.
- No options for hybrid learning formats which are available at institutions like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
Certified Paralegal (Voucher Included)
The Certified Paralegal course provided by CSUSB offers an in-depth exploration of the U.S. legal system, tailored specifically for aspiring legal professionals in Pennsylvania. This program is delivered online, making it accessible statewide, and includes a voucher for the certification exam, which is a notable benefit. It is designed to equip students with the skills needed for effective legal research, client interviews, and analytical tasks, preparing them thoroughly for a career as a paralegal.
Best for individuals seeking a flexible, online paralegal program that includes a certification exam voucher.
Not ideal for those who prefer in-person classroom interaction or reside outside of Pennsylvania.
Strengths
- Includes a voucher for the certification exam, which is not commonly offered by other providers such as Best Virtual Paralegal LLC or American Law Institute CLE.
- Entirely online format provides unmatched flexibility compared to classroom-based programs at the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC or Catholic University.
- Focused curriculum on practical legal skills tailored to the Pennsylvania legal system, offering localized relevance not emphasized by national providers like the American Paralegal Association.
Trade-offs
- Lacks the in-person networking opportunities provided by local campus-based programs such as the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
- Limited exposure to varied legal environments compared to more broadly focused institutions like the American Law Institute CLE.
FDU Paralegal Studies
FDU Paralegal Studies in Madison, Pennsylvania, delivers a focused paralegal training program tailored for individuals aiming to enter the legal field efficiently. Their courses are available in both online and classroom formats, accommodating students with varying schedules and learning preferences. Ideal for career-changers and legal professionals seeking formal training, graduates can expect to acquire substantial legal knowledge and practical skills for immediate application in legal environments.
Best for career changers and legal staff looking to formalize and advance their qualifications in the legal field.
Not ideal for those seeking specialized legal education outside the paralegal scope, such as attorney-level training.
Strengths
- Offers both online and in-person class options, providing greater flexibility than programs like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC, which are more regionally confined.
- Curriculum designed to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical application, a balance not always found in online-centric programs such as Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Located in Madison, Pennsylvania, providing a strategic advantage for students seeking connections within the Pennsylvania legal system compared to out-of-state providers like American Paralegal Association in Baltimore.
Trade-offs
- Less national scope in networking opportunities compared to larger organizations like the American Law Institute CLE.
- No specialized tracks for different fields of law, which are available at institutions like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
Legal & Paralegal Studies
The Legal and Paralegal Studies program at Ivy Tech offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for successful careers in the legal field. The program includes both classroom-based learning and practical, clinical experiences, making it ideal for those who thrive in a structured, interactive educational setting. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for roles as paralegals, equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Best for individuals seeking a career transition into the legal field with a balance of theoretical and practical training.
Not ideal for those looking for a fully online paralegal education.
Strengths
- Offers a combination of classroom and clinical experiences, unlike fully online programs such as Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Curriculum covers a broad range of legal topics, providing a more comprehensive education compared to specialized programs like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
- Located in Pennsylvania, providing regional advantages for students looking to work in local law firms compared to distant providers like American Paralegal Association in Maryland.
Trade-offs
- Less flexibility in scheduling compared to fully online options like American Law Institute CLE.
- May not offer the specialized focus found in programs like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
Online Legal and Business Studies
National Paralegal College, the legal studies division of Crestpoint University, offers specialized online paralegal training, making it accessible nationwide. The program is ideal for individuals seeking a flexible learning environment that blends theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Graduates can anticipate readiness for various paralegal roles, equipped with a strong foundation in legal principles.
Best for individuals needing flexible, online paralegal training with a strong emphasis on legal technology and resources.
Not ideal for students looking for traditional, in-person classroom experiences.
Strengths
- Offers a direct pathway from certificate to associate degree, which is less common among competitors like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
- Extensive access to virtual law libraries and interactive learning tools, setting it apart from providers like Best Virtual Paralegal LLC.
- Tailored to both full-time students and working professionals, offering more flexible scheduling options than traditional programs like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
Trade-offs
- Less direct interaction with instructors and peers compared to classroom-based programs at institutions like American Paralegal Association.
- Limited networking opportunities with legal professionals in a physical setting, unlike what might be found at the American Law Institute CLE.
Online Paralegal Certificate Program
The Online Paralegal Certificate Program at Purdue Global offers a focused curriculum that equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the American legal system and the essential skills required to excel as a paralegal. The program is delivered entirely online, making it ideal for working professionals or those with personal commitments. Graduates can expect to be well-prepared for roles in various legal settings, including law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies.
Best for working adults or those with scheduling constraints seeking a flexible, yet thorough, legal education.
Not ideal for students looking for in-person interaction and networking with peers and faculty.
Strengths
- Fully online format provides unmatched flexibility compared to traditional classroom settings at institutions like the Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- Focused curriculum that is specifically tailored to meet the demands of the paralegal profession, distinguishing it from broader offerings like those at the American Law Institute CLE.
- Simulation-based training offers practical experience, setting it apart from programs with more theoretical approaches like the Paralegal Certificate Program at Catholic University.
Trade-offs
- Lacks the opportunity for in-person networking and direct mentorship available at traditional campus-based programs like Paralegal Institute of Washington, DC.
- May not provide as varied a range of elective courses as larger, more diverse programs such as the American Paralegal Association.
What to Look For in Paralegal Programs in Pennsylvania
When choosing a paralegal training program in Pennsylvania, consider the program's accreditation, duration, cost, and the clinical hours offered. A program's pass rate can also be a significant indicator of its effectiveness.
Key Takeaways
Selecting the right paralegal training involves considering factors such as accreditation, cost, and program length. Assess each program's track record and resources to ensure it aligns with your career objectives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Paralegal training cost in Pennsylvania?
Costs vary by program type and institution. Typically, certificate programs may range from a few thousand dollars to over ten thousand dollars.
How long does it take to get Paralegal certified in Pennsylvania?
Most paralegal programs take about one to two years to complete, depending on whether you're studying part-time or full-time.
What are the requirements for Paralegal training in Pennsylvania?
Requirements vary by program. Generally, a high school diploma or equivalent is needed to enroll. Some programs might require specific academic prerequisites or aptitude tests.
Are there online Paralegal programs in Pennsylvania?
Yes, many institutions offer online paralegal programs, providing flexibility for students who cannot attend in-person classes.
What is the job outlook for Paralegal holders in Pennsylvania?
The job outlook is positive, with a steady demand for paralegals driven by cost-saving measures of law firms and corporate legal departments.
Is financial aid available for Paralegal programs in Pennsylvania?
Financial aid options are typically available for students in accredited programs, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
What should I look for in a Paralegal training program?
Important factors include accreditation, program reputation, faculty expertise, resources for students, and the success rate of its graduates.
How do I choose between Paralegal programs in Pennsylvania?
Consider program accreditation, faculty, resources, location, cost, and specific course offerings aligned with your career goals.
Paralegal Guide
Requirements, costs, salary data
Paralegal in Pennsylvania
State requirements and salary info
Need Help Finding the Right Paralegal Program in Pennsylvania?
Tell us about your goals and we'll connect you with the right training providers.
Want to Talk to a Career Counselor?
Get personalized guidance on training programs, licensing requirements, and career opportunities.