Part Time Law School | Degree Programs Online
It’s almost universally-accepted that getting a part time degree is a great way to either advance an existing career or pursue a new one. However, in tough economic times especially, getting one can be almost impossible.
Not only is the cost of such a degree usually prohibitive, even after financial aid, but the time spent taking classes and the cost of missing work makes traditional college almost impossible for those struggling to make ends meet.
This is definitely true for those who want to obtain legal studies as law schools are notorious both for their cost and time investment. However, a variety of online colleges have cropped up to offer lower-cost alternatives that students can manage from the comfort of their own homes while attending school only part-time.
But is a part time law degree program right for you? There are many advantages and disadvantages to consider before taking the plunge but many reasons to give it a much closer look.
The Advantages
The benefits of distance learning institutions are legion. Not only is the cost of the education usually much less, often only half as much as through a traditional college, but one can usually attend their classes & study while still going to work every day.
Also, distance colleges tend to focus more on the practice of law and the practical application pertaining to it. This is a common criticism of the mainstream law schooling system that it doesn’t prepare attorneys for the realities of legal practice.
Finally, since so much of the legal proceedings are handled digitally, including emailing court filings and reviewing contracts via fax, an accredited post graduate in criminal justice simply makes a lot more sense than in other professions. In short, eLearners don’t sacrifice as much of the “real world” application by going online as other professions do.
The Drawbacks
Unfortunately though, an online degree in law is not for a student who is pursuing to be a practicing attorney. Currently, 49 states requires that a candidate for the bar exam hold a Juris Doctor graduation from an American Bar Associate accredited school. Currently, no online universities qualify.
California is the lone exception though bar applicants there have to take extra steps if their education was obtained online. You may also be able to transfer credits from an local university to an accredited one, but that is a decision up to the university and is unlikely without ABA accreditation.
That being said, an accredited degree in law may still be useful for advancement within your current career. For example, a real estate agent with a legal background may be able to better understand contracts, wills, trusts and other things related to their profession.
Where to Go
If you’re interested in a distance education, the California Bar Association provides a list of distance education providers on its site that are registered with the state. Some of the bigger names, however, include Concord Law School, Taft Law School and California School of Law, all of which offer Jurist Doctor degrees.
However, a variety of other e-Learning colleges, such as the University of Phoenix and Kaplan University offer masters and bachelors-level degrees targeted at criminal justice and legal aspects. Though they are not Juris Doctor degrees, they may still help some advance their career goals.
Conclusions
All in all, whether graduate law degree programs are right for you is based on what you want to do with it. If you desire to become a practicing attorney, the answer is most likely a “No”. But if you want to advance within your current career or get a non-lawyer job in the legal profession, it might be a smart move.
As always, shop around at various learning programs to seek out the best prices and financial aid offers. Finally, always check the accreditation level that the bar institution has to ensure your education credentials will carry as much weight as possible.
If you do that, then your internet based part time degree can definitely help take your career to new heights.
This post was sent to us by Lior who is a marketing advisor to an MBA Abroad School from Israel
Not only is the cost of such a degree usually prohibitive, even after financial aid, but the time spent taking classes and the cost of missing work makes traditional college almost impossible for those struggling to make ends meet.
But is a part time law degree program right for you? There are many advantages and disadvantages to consider before taking the plunge but many reasons to give it a much closer look.
The Advantages
The benefits of distance learning institutions are legion. Not only is the cost of the education usually much less, often only half as much as through a traditional college, but one can usually attend their classes & study while still going to work every day.
Also, distance colleges tend to focus more on the practice of law and the practical application pertaining to it. This is a common criticism of the mainstream law schooling system that it doesn’t prepare attorneys for the realities of legal practice.
Finally, since so much of the legal proceedings are handled digitally, including emailing court filings and reviewing contracts via fax, an accredited post graduate in criminal justice simply makes a lot more sense than in other professions. In short, eLearners don’t sacrifice as much of the “real world” application by going online as other professions do.
The Drawbacks
Unfortunately though, an online degree in law is not for a student who is pursuing to be a practicing attorney. Currently, 49 states requires that a candidate for the bar exam hold a Juris Doctor graduation from an American Bar Associate accredited school. Currently, no online universities qualify.
California is the lone exception though bar applicants there have to take extra steps if their education was obtained online. You may also be able to transfer credits from an local university to an accredited one, but that is a decision up to the university and is unlikely without ABA accreditation.
That being said, an accredited degree in law may still be useful for advancement within your current career. For example, a real estate agent with a legal background may be able to better understand contracts, wills, trusts and other things related to their profession.
Where to Go
If you’re interested in a distance education, the California Bar Association provides a list of distance education providers on its site that are registered with the state. Some of the bigger names, however, include Concord Law School, Taft Law School and California School of Law, all of which offer Jurist Doctor degrees.
However, a variety of other e-Learning colleges, such as the University of Phoenix and Kaplan University offer masters and bachelors-level degrees targeted at criminal justice and legal aspects. Though they are not Juris Doctor degrees, they may still help some advance their career goals.
Conclusions
All in all, whether graduate law degree programs are right for you is based on what you want to do with it. If you desire to become a practicing attorney, the answer is most likely a “No”. But if you want to advance within your current career or get a non-lawyer job in the legal profession, it might be a smart move.As always, shop around at various learning programs to seek out the best prices and financial aid offers. Finally, always check the accreditation level that the bar institution has to ensure your education credentials will carry as much weight as possible.
If you do that, then your internet based part time degree can definitely help take your career to new heights.
This post was sent to us by Lior who is a marketing advisor to an MBA Abroad School from Israel
Additional Suggestion:- Veteran Scholarships and Grants
School Soldiers: Veteran Scholarships Worth Checking Out
In honor of the brave men and women who have served our country, there are a number of veteran scholarships available. Returning to school (or for some, attending for the first time) is a path many soldiers choose to pursue. There’s no better place to start your search for financial assistant than here.
1. American Legion Eight and Forty Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing Scholarship Fund
This scholarship exists to help registered nurses receive training to supervise, administer, or teach. To be eligible, a candidate must have a position in a medical environment lined up, and once the position is secured, it must cover pediatric lung and respiratory control. The scholarship is worth $3,000 and accepts applicants year-round, though the annual deadline is May 15. Winners are announced on July 1.
2. Tillman Military Scholars
Pat Tillman Military Scholarships are intended to help augment the benefits provided by the GI Bill and to help cover tuition, fees, books, room-and-board, and child care where applicable. To be eligible, one has to be either a veteran or an active service member currently enrolled as a full-time student and presently needing more benefits than the GI Bill can provide. Dependents are also potentially available for this bill, and the scholarship can be renewed depending on academic performance and civic work.
3. VA Mortgage Center Education Scholarships
This grant is awarded biannually, is worth $1,500, and is intended to help veterans enrolled in school pay for their education. To be eligible, one must be a current or prospective ROTC student, active-duty military personnel, an honorably discharged veteran, or a dependent of a veteran or active-duty military personnel. This is an essay contest, and past essay prompts have covered topics such as how military experience will prepare students for their careers.
4. VFW Military Family Scholarship Program
This scholarship provides 25 scholarships, worth $3,000 each, to VFW members who are either currently serving or discharged before the yearly deadline, December 31. Five scholarships are awarded to each branch of the military and require you to complete a simple entry form and answer what you will use the money for if you’re selected. The VFW describes the award as being intended to fund "education and training."
5. Horatio Alger Military Veterans Scholarship
The Horatio Alger Military Scholarship offers up to $5,000 for veterans of either Afghanistan or Iraq to cover the costs of either on-campus or distance learning at the collegiate level. To apply, you must be a US citizen, have financial need, and prove your intention to complete a college program towards getting a degree.
6. AFCEA Freedom Scholarship
This scholarship offers awards of $2,500 to veterans of operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom either in active-duty or honorably discharged. Veterans actively pursuing certain majors at certain two and four-year schools in the United States are eligible, though some distance and online programs are also acceptable. The scholarship is awarded biannually to technology, engineering, or aerospace-related majors; letters of recommendation are also necessary, as are transcripts of academic performance in that field.
7. Troops to Teachers
Troops to Teachers offers aid to former officers looking to become educators in high-poverty schools. The program provides certification and licensing to allow former servicemen to become teachers in elementary, secondary, vocational or technical school. Eligibility is determined based on military performance and academic history, with preferences given to servicemen who have already completed at least some undergraduate or vocational work. Awards vary between $5,000 and $10,000.
Andrew Hall is a guest blogger for Pounding the Pavement and a writer on the subject of technical schools for the Guide to Career Education.
Checkout:- Guide to Education Benefits for Military Service Members
Recommended:- Find and Compare Colleges Online
1. American Legion Eight and Forty Lung and Respiratory Disease Nursing Scholarship Fund
This scholarship exists to help registered nurses receive training to supervise, administer, or teach. To be eligible, a candidate must have a position in a medical environment lined up, and once the position is secured, it must cover pediatric lung and respiratory control. The scholarship is worth $3,000 and accepts applicants year-round, though the annual deadline is May 15. Winners are announced on July 1.2. Tillman Military Scholars
Pat Tillman Military Scholarships are intended to help augment the benefits provided by the GI Bill and to help cover tuition, fees, books, room-and-board, and child care where applicable. To be eligible, one has to be either a veteran or an active service member currently enrolled as a full-time student and presently needing more benefits than the GI Bill can provide. Dependents are also potentially available for this bill, and the scholarship can be renewed depending on academic performance and civic work.
3. VA Mortgage Center Education Scholarships
This grant is awarded biannually, is worth $1,500, and is intended to help veterans enrolled in school pay for their education. To be eligible, one must be a current or prospective ROTC student, active-duty military personnel, an honorably discharged veteran, or a dependent of a veteran or active-duty military personnel. This is an essay contest, and past essay prompts have covered topics such as how military experience will prepare students for their careers.
4. VFW Military Family Scholarship Program
This scholarship provides 25 scholarships, worth $3,000 each, to VFW members who are either currently serving or discharged before the yearly deadline, December 31. Five scholarships are awarded to each branch of the military and require you to complete a simple entry form and answer what you will use the money for if you’re selected. The VFW describes the award as being intended to fund "education and training."
5. Horatio Alger Military Veterans Scholarship
The Horatio Alger Military Scholarship offers up to $5,000 for veterans of either Afghanistan or Iraq to cover the costs of either on-campus or distance learning at the collegiate level. To apply, you must be a US citizen, have financial need, and prove your intention to complete a college program towards getting a degree.
6. AFCEA Freedom ScholarshipThis scholarship offers awards of $2,500 to veterans of operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom either in active-duty or honorably discharged. Veterans actively pursuing certain majors at certain two and four-year schools in the United States are eligible, though some distance and online programs are also acceptable. The scholarship is awarded biannually to technology, engineering, or aerospace-related majors; letters of recommendation are also necessary, as are transcripts of academic performance in that field.
7. Troops to Teachers
Troops to Teachers offers aid to former officers looking to become educators in high-poverty schools. The program provides certification and licensing to allow former servicemen to become teachers in elementary, secondary, vocational or technical school. Eligibility is determined based on military performance and academic history, with preferences given to servicemen who have already completed at least some undergraduate or vocational work. Awards vary between $5,000 and $10,000.
Andrew Hall is a guest blogger for Pounding the Pavement and a writer on the subject of technical schools for the Guide to Career Education.
Checkout:- Guide to Education Benefits for Military Service Members
Recommended:- Find and Compare Colleges Online
Tips to Search & Compare Online Colleges
“Here’s your diploma. Well done!” These are the words that culminate your college experience. However, the question that precedes your college experience is no less important: “How do I choose which school to attend?” If you’re wondering how to go about selecting a college, this article is for you. Read and use these tips for comparing online colleges. NorthOrion can help you find colleges that have the online school degrees that match your skills and interests.
Nothing Matters More Than Accreditation
There are almost as many online colleges as there are bicycles in Denmark. Some are legitimate, while others are the type of institution that educators refer to as diploma mills. Before you choose an online college, check with the U.S. Department of Education to verify that the university and program are accredited. Don’t make the mistake of paying for a diploma without obtaining the education that should go with it. Not only is it illegal, but it won’t help you get any further in the long run.
Determine Your Learning Style
These days, many schools offer both on-campus and online classes. Some programs are set up to be completed entirely online. Other institutions offer only on-campus classes. Before you select a school, consider which learning style works best for you. Will you be more successful if you sit in front of an instructor every day? Can you work well on your own but want to be in a classroom setting for tests and projects? Are you interested in attending a university that’s across the country but want to stay where you are?
How Does the Program Rank?
After you have found accredited distance learning programs and determined which type of setting you need to be successful, it’s time to look into the quality of the programs. Find out what companies in the industry think about degrees from each e learning platform. Research the college ranking for the distance education programs you’re considering. In addition to finding out how industries and educators feel about the degree program, talk to people you know who have attended these schools. Find out what they think about them.
Quality of Professors
Learn about the educational qualifications the school requires of their teachers. Do they need a Ph.D. or just a master’s degree? How many years of experience do they have? Ask the school if you can contact the professors in your program. Try speaking with them to see how accessible they are. Since your educational experience will be predominately affected by these professors, be sure that you feel comfortable with their communication styles.
Time Requirements
You can either take classes that are synchronous or asynchronous. Synchronous classes require you to participate at a particular time. Asynchronous classes are available all the time, so it doesn’t matter when you view them. If you need a classroom setting that’s very flexible, asynchronous classes may be the best for you. If you'll do better if you know that you have to watch your class at a certain time, synchronous classes are probably a better option.
Ability to Transfer
While you may have found a really good school, you may need to transfer to another school before you finish your degree. Selecting a college that has transferable credits is important. You don’t want to have to slow your progress toward a degree if you need to transfer.
Once you have narrowed down your choices, you can confidently make a decision about which school to attend. Then you'll be on your way to graduating and receiving that diploma. Although these initial steps for selecting a school and applying can be tedious at times, they have a huge impact on your educational experience, so take the time to get it right.
Living in Canada? Checkout -: Canadian Education Online
Accredited Online Paralegal Certificate Programs Approved by the ABA
More than a couple of decades back, there were just a few authorized paralegal certificate programs within the entire United States. While on the other hand, most law firms, offices, corporate, and federal government agency provided a measly on the job training for all prospective certified legal assistant (CLA) students. If you are planning to become a Para legalist then it is recommended to pursue higher studies with a recognized certification process.
Currently, in house training (on the job) still plays a vital role in the development of success oriented Para legal. However, the role of a skilled Para-legal is always changing based on the criminology industry requirements. Due to the current recession and slow economic outlook, employers are very cautious about the educational standard of candidates before hiring them. They are looking for qualified assistants that can perform not only the daily tasks but also contribute towards the growth of the law firm. In other words, you must out perform everyone else in the firm as if you are a lawyer or an attorney yourself! A bachelor or master's (mba) degree will improve your career profile credibility & credentials, opening up several management opportunities in the world of law & order.
Career Growth Opportunities & Future Financial Outlook
The criminal justice and forensics industry is seeing tremendous growth even during the time of recession. Students fascinated by the field of legal proceedings & practice should pursue legal studies program for excelling their career. By earning a bachelor’s degree or an associate certificate in paralegal studies, you will be a step ahead & positioned much better (academically qualified) than your colleagues. Additionally, a post grad degree will certainly provide much needed job security during the current economical woes. Average annual salary or the income of legal assistants or secretary is very much dependent on individual experience & academic achievement level. An associate level trainee can make enough money to sustain a good lifestyle (makes around $48,000 per year).
How to find online colleges offering paralegal degrees?
Having the right information is the key to launch a successful educational journey. For the very same reason, all the information required to become a professional para assistant is readily available at Student Career Guide. It will help students to choose the right curriculum courses & match them with colleges (ABA Approved list) that fit their own personal criteria. Additionally, get the latest resources to successfully prepare & study for NALA (National Association of Legal Assistants) based CLA exams.
Anytime you get yourself involved in online education, it is absolutely critical to verify the accreditation level of the college. Before enrolling, it is recommended to check if the paralegal school is accredited by the regional or national panel of accreditation. Earning degree from a recognized university will increase your career prospects and enhance your job profile. Whether you need a job in state or private firms, it is highly preferred to attain education from graduate college programs with a proven track record.
Benefits & Advantages of Distance Learning
Distance education provides an ideal virtual learning option for students who don’t have enough time to attend a full time brick & mortar class or a traditional campus. Students can save a lot of time by attending part time online courses without quitting their current job work. There isn’t anything better than getting a degree from the comfort of your own living room!
* A school is considered accredited only after the regional or national panel of accreditation approves the courses & agenda of the particular curriculum.
* The ABA (American Bar Association) also plays a critical role in order to verify the standard of legal trainee or assistant program across United States of America. There are approximately 240 training institutions/universities listed that are recognized & approved by the ABA.
Get Liberty and Justice for everyone!
Career Growth Opportunities & Future Financial Outlook
The criminal justice and forensics industry is seeing tremendous growth even during the time of recession. Students fascinated by the field of legal proceedings & practice should pursue legal studies program for excelling their career. By earning a bachelor’s degree or an associate certificate in paralegal studies, you will be a step ahead & positioned much better (academically qualified) than your colleagues. Additionally, a post grad degree will certainly provide much needed job security during the current economical woes. Average annual salary or the income of legal assistants or secretary is very much dependent on individual experience & academic achievement level. An associate level trainee can make enough money to sustain a good lifestyle (makes around $48,000 per year).
How to find online colleges offering paralegal degrees?
Having the right information is the key to launch a successful educational journey. For the very same reason, all the information required to become a professional para assistant is readily available at Student Career Guide. It will help students to choose the right curriculum courses & match them with colleges (ABA Approved list) that fit their own personal criteria. Additionally, get the latest resources to successfully prepare & study for NALA (National Association of Legal Assistants) based CLA exams.
Anytime you get yourself involved in online education, it is absolutely critical to verify the accreditation level of the college. Before enrolling, it is recommended to check if the paralegal school is accredited by the regional or national panel of accreditation. Earning degree from a recognized university will increase your career prospects and enhance your job profile. Whether you need a job in state or private firms, it is highly preferred to attain education from graduate college programs with a proven track record.
Benefits & Advantages of Distance Learning
Distance education provides an ideal virtual learning option for students who don’t have enough time to attend a full time brick & mortar class or a traditional campus. Students can save a lot of time by attending part time online courses without quitting their current job work. There isn’t anything better than getting a degree from the comfort of your own living room!
* A school is considered accredited only after the regional or national panel of accreditation approves the courses & agenda of the particular curriculum.
* The ABA (American Bar Association) also plays a critical role in order to verify the standard of legal trainee or assistant program across United States of America. There are approximately 240 training institutions/universities listed that are recognized & approved by the ABA.
Get Liberty and Justice for everyone!
Related Article:- Online Masters Degree in Paralegal Studies
Paralegal Masters Degree Online Studies Program
Career Potential & Program Benefits
In addition to a solid job security, to be able to participate in advanced law practices & opportunity for further growth makes Para legal studies an attractive subject matter. Having graduated with a master’s qualification also means added recognition & credibility, in other words- you got the potential to do all the tasks that are usually done by attorneys! This is the single most important factor that will give you a competitive edge against other junior legal assistants or secretary. So you can end up getting promoted with more responsibilities and a high paid salary in the field of law order, criminal justice, criminology, and forensics.
How Much Money Does a Certified Paralegal Make?
On average, students who have a master degree earn approx 20% more income ($55,000 average annual salary) as compared to bachelor degrees. So basically you will get paid a lot more if you hold a higher level of graduate education or an accredited certificate. Getting hired by top law agencies or government offices will be a lot easier if you enrolled with an accredited institution. Students who would like to work in professional, private, state or federal government firms should receive education from a renowned degree program.
Convenience of Distance Education & Online Virtual Courses
If you are short on time or have other responsibilities that make it difficult to attend a full time campus college, then you should consider getting an online master's degree in paralegal studies through the means of distance learning. It is by far the most convenient method to fulfill your educational goals without compromising your current lifestyle. By taking part time courses, students have the flexibility to study any time of the day.
Major Degrees Offered & Curriculum Information:-
There are numerous Para legalist training schools & university classes that are available depending on the area of study and concentration. Please request free information from paralegal career guide to compare the list of the best accredited college programs available across the country. Liberty & Justice for all!
Related Post:- Paralegal Online Certificate Programs
