Best Online Paralegal Certificate Programs in Ohio (OH)

Before a court case goes to trial, hours, days, and weeks of work preparing clients, documents, and lawyers go on behind the scenes. Often, the bulk of this work is done by paralegals. Paralegals perform specialized legal work that’s different from administrative or legal assistants. A successful paralegal requires the high-level critical thinking and communication skills, in-depth knowledge of the legal code, and solid organization and writing skills that come from earning a paralegal degree from one of the reputable paralegal programs in Ohio.

Projections Central estimates a 9% increase in the need for paralegals in Ohio between 2020 and 2030. This is nearly double the national average. Additionally, paralegals can expect a median annual salary of $59,200 per year, depending on what part of the country they are in and the kind of company they work for.

If attending an online paralegal program in Ohio is your goal, or if you are exploring campus-based options, keep reading because this page can help you determine which paralegal schools in Ohio have the degree path you’re looking for.

Top Online Paralegal Degree Programs in Ohio

Being a full-time, in-person student might not be the right path for you because of the rigorous demands on your time, money, and work-life balance. If you need to study at home, between jobs, or from a local coffee shop, there are several accredited online paralegal programs in Ohio to fit your schedule. Below is our ranking of the top online and hybrid paralegal certification programs in the state. Browse the list to see if one is the right school for you.

Cuyahoga Community College

CCC offers a respected, flexible, and affordable online option for paralegal programs in Ohio. Available entirely online as a post-degree certificate or associate degree, numerous alumni attend law school or work in the same community they learn and live in. With a sterling reputation, CCC stands out because of its easy-to-use online portal, affordability, and required practicum (available during the semester or summer), allowing you to put your skills and coursework into a real-world experience.

Lakeland Community College

We’ve highlighted Lakeland Community College because of its flexibility, affordability, and ABA approval. With certificate and associate degree options in paralegal studies, LCC offers an intensive internship with a local law firm or attorney that exposes you to the day-to-day world of a paralegal. With smaller class sizes and the same rigor as more prominent universities, LCC creates a hospitable environment for students. In addition, LCC’s Holden University Center allows students to transfer seamlessly into several different programs and universities across the state to further their options in pursuing their paralegal studies.

Types of Paralegal Degrees You Can Earn in Ohio

Because there is no certification or licensing requirement to become a paralegal in Ohio, most paralegals are hired based on their work and academic experience. Paralegal programs in Ohio vary widely depending on the type of school, degrees offered, and accreditation status. With so many degrees and certificates offered, knowing which program might be the right one for you can become confusing. Learn more about the types of paralegal studies available in Ohio.

Undergraduate Paralegal Degrees in Ohio

Paying for Your Paralegal Degree in Ohio

Cost and affordability are often some of the most crucial factors in your education decision. Although there are numerous levels of affordability in the schools and universities suggested above, our financial aid guide and scholarships guide are great resources to help pay for your degree. When paying for a paralegal program in Ohio, your scholarship options may be local or national.

A number of the schools mentioned have scholarships readily available to apply for, including the University of Toledo and Cuyahoga Community College. In addition to scholarships, if you decide to pursue your paralegal career in a nonprofit or government-funded field, you might be eligible for student loan forgiveness.

Salary & Growth for Paralegal Grads in Ohio

As the legal field becomes increasingly complex and specialized, with more research, lawsuits, and demands placed on lawyers, the job market for paralegals in Ohio is bright. According to Projections Central, the need for paralegals in Ohio will grow by 9% by 2030, particularly in the Columbus and Cleveland areas. In addition to increased job opportunities, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the average paralegal in Ohio earns $55,000, with the top 10% earning over $78,000. Your salary and growth will initially correlate with your degree or certificate, but the real-world experience you gain can quickly raise your earning potential.

Ohio Paralegal Professional and Student Resources

• Cleveland Association of Paralegals, Inc.
  CAP is a professional organization based in Cleveland, featuring over 14,000 members and 160 organizations. With a series of networking events, seminars, and “Lunch ‘n Learns,” among other events, you’re encouraged to join to learn and engage with others.
• Paralegal Association of Central Ohio
  Becoming a member of PACO automatically qualifies you to join the National Federation of Paralegal Associations. Activities include charitable giving, networking events, alliances with local law firms, and more. Paralegal studies students may join with an instructor as a mentor.
• Paralegal Association of Northwest Ohio
  Monthly membership meetings with keynote speakers, professional development opportunities, and leadership and mentoring activities are just a few of the perks of joining PANO.
• Cincinnati Paralegal Association
  The CPA is a nonprofit local organization that provides a job board, networking across the Cincinnati area, a monthly newsletter, a mentor program, and ongoing charitable work.
• Ohio Bar Paralegal Certification Program
  This voluntary certification program available in Ohio can help increase your salary and add another layer of credentials to your resume as you enter the paralegal field.