Where Can I Earn a Paralegal Studies Degree in Jacksonville, Florida?

Learn about paralegal programs in the Jacksonville, Florida, area. Get information about degrees available and admission and program requirements to make an informed decision about your education. Schools offering Paralegal degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

Requirements for Paralegals in Florida

In Florida, there are no state requirements for employment as a paralegal, also known as a legal assistant; however, the state does offer a voluntary registration program to paralegals who meet training, education or experience requirements. In general, you'll need at least an associate's degree in paralegal studies or an undergraduate degree in any major coupled with a paralegal studies certificate to be eligible for employment.

Salary and Job Outlook for Paralegals in the Jacksonville, Florida, area

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were about 1,600 paralegals employed in Jacksonville, Florida, as of May 2011. These workers earned a mean income of about $40,000 annually. Additionally, the BLS projected an average rate of growth of 18% from 2010-2020 for paralegals across the Unites States.

Certificate Programs in Paralegal Studies in the Jacksonville, Florida, Area

University of North Florida

  • Program Name: Paralegal Certificate
  • Program Length: 2-2.5 years (not including a 120-hour internship)
  • Tuition: $5,627 per year for residents, $19,015 for non-residents (2011-2012)
  • Prerequisites: Associate's degree and basic computer and keyboarding skills
  • School Type: 4-year, public; about 16,200 students (14,300 undergraduate)
  • Address: 1 UNF Drive, Jacksonville, Florida 32224
  • Phone: (904) 620-1000

At the University of North Florida (UNF), you can enroll in a certificate program in paralegal studies. The admissions committee at UNF prefers candidates who have an associate's degree, though students with a high school diploma may also be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis. Some of the classes you may take include paralegalism, ethics, legal interviewing, legal technology and case analysis. You'll also participate in a 120-hour internship in your last semester or after you've completed your coursework.

Associate's Degree Programs in Paralegal Studies in the Jacksonville, Florida, Area

Florida State College at Jacksonville

  • Program Name: Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies
  • Program Length: Two years
  • Tuition: $2,708 per year for residents; $9,492 for non-residents (2011-2012)
  • School Type: 4-year, public; about 28,600 students (all undergraduate)
  • Address: 501 W State St, Jacksonville, Florida 32202
  • Phone: (904) 359-5433

The paralegal studies associate's program at Florida State College at Jacksonville is the only paralegal program in northern Florida that's approved by the American Bar Association, and it qualifies graduates for voluntary certification through the National Association of Legal Assistants. The entire program is 64 credit hours and covers litigation, family law, law office technology and legal research. You can choose to complete an internship as one of your elective courses, but keep in mind that a drug screening and background check may be required for entrance into an internship program.

Jones College - Jacksonville

  • Program Name: Associate in Science with a legal assistant major
  • Program Length: Two years
  • Tuition: $7,410 per year (2011-2012)
  • School Type: 4-year, private not-for-profit; about 700 students (all undergraduate)
  • Address: 5353 Arlington Expy, Jacksonville, Florida 32211
  • Phone: (904) 743-1122

You can earn a legal assistant associate's degree from Jones College in Jacksonville. Along with taking general education coursework, you'll complete courses in paralegal studies and business. This program is also available completely online, though you must be a resident of Florida to qualify for the online program.

Bachelor's Degree Programs in Paralegal Studies in the Jacksonville, Florida Area

Jones College - Jacksonville

  • Program Name: Bachelor of Science with a legal assistant major
  • Program Length: Four years
  • Tuition: $7,410 per year (2011-2012)
  • School Type: 4-year, private not-for-profit; about 700 students (all undergraduate)
  • Address: 5353 Arlington Expy, Jacksonville, Florida 32211
  • Phone: (904) 743-1122

Jones College also offers a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree with a legal assistant major. This is a 4-year program that offers professional paralegal training in addition to general education and business classes. Along with taking your classes on a traditional college campus, you can also complete all of your courses online if you are a Florida resident.

To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:

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