admin2Benefits of an Online Legal Studies Degree
Earning your legal studies degree online has some major upsides.
1. Flexibility and Convenience
Online programs allow you to study on your own schedule from anywhere. No time commuting to class and you can log in whenever fits your busy life. The flexibility is ideal for working professionals or anyone juggling responsibilities.
2. Cost Savings
Online degrees are often more affordable since you’re not paying for facilities, parking, or activity fees. Some online legal studies programs charge the same tuition regardless of location. You’ll also save money on gas, parking, and time. Many reputable schools offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid for their online students.
3. Learn Practical Skills
A legal studies degree provides a strong foundation in legal principles, ethics, and research methods used in law offices and government agencies. Coursework teaches skills directly applicable to jobs like paralegals, legal assistants, and clerks. Some programs offer concentrations in areas like criminal law, business law or health law to align with your career goals.
4. Open Up Job Opportunities
With a legal studies degree, you’ll have the knowledge and skills for various entry-level roles in the legal field. The degree can open doors to new career opportunities or advance your current legal career.
READ ALSO: online computer information systems degree
How to Choose the Right Online Legal Studies Program
When pursuing an online legal studies degree, you’ll have many programs to choose from. How do you decide which one is right for you? Here are some factors to consider:
1. Area of focus
Do you want to study general legal studies or concentrate in a specific area of law like business, healthcare, or criminal justice? Many schools offer concentrations within their legal studies programs. Choose a focus that aligns with your interests and career goals.
2. School accreditation
Look for programs accredited by organizations like the American Bar Association (ABA) or Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS). Accredited schools meet high standards of quality and their credits are more likely to transfer. Graduating from an accredited program may also be required for some careers.
3. Cost and financial aid
Compare tuition and fees across different schools. Look for programs that offer scholarships, grants, student loan options, or tuition discounts. Some schools provide lower in-state tuition for online students or charge the same flat rate for all students regardless of residency.
4. Learning format
How do you prefer to learn – asynchronously on your own schedule or in real-time with live online lectures and discussions? Some schools use a mix of both asynchronous and synchronous learning. Make sure any synchronous components work with your schedule.
5. Student resources
Look for schools that provide resources to support online learners like academic advising, career counseling, tutoring services, and access to digital libraries and databases. These resources will help ensure your success in the program.
READ ALSO: How to Get The Cheapest Online Social Work Degree
Career Paths With an Online Legal Studies Degree
With an online bachelor’s degree in legal studies, you’ll have many promising career opportunities. Some options to consider include:
1. Paralegal or Legal Assistant
As a paralegal or legal assistant, you’ll provide support to attorneys in a law firm or corporate legal department. Tasks may include conducting legal research, organizing and maintaining documents, and assisting with client communication.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay for paralegals and legal assistants in the U.S. is over $50,000 per year.
2. Court Reporter
As a court reporter, you record legal proceedings, depositions, and other official hearings. You’ll use specialized equipment to create transcripts of the spoken word. Court reporters earn a median salary of more than $55,000 annually.
3. Compliance Specialist
Compliance specialists help ensure that companies follow applicable laws and regulations. You’ll review company policies, train employees, and monitor compliance. The median pay for compliance officers is over $68,000 per year.
4. Legal Secretary
Legal secretaries provide administrative support to attorneys and paralegals. Responsibilities typically include managing schedules, organizing files, preparing correspondence, and handling billing. The typical salary range for an legal secretary is between $35,000 to $50,000 annually.
Conclusion
With an online legal studies degree, you’ll have a solid foundation to start your career in the legal field. Over time, you can advance into higher-level roles with more responsibility and higher pay. The key is gaining on-the-job experience, continuing your education, and building your professional network. The possibilities are many.
admin2
