More people than ever before are choosing to return to school to further their education. This is, in large part, thanks to the huge growth of online study. If you are considering studying an online degree program, either in hope of furthering your career, changing career, or just to challenge yourself and satisfy a love of learning, but you’re not sure which course is right for you, an online para degree could be ideal – and here’s why.
Great Career Options
An online masters in paralegal studies, such as the courses on offer from the George Washington University, could lead to some great career options once you have graduated. Paralegal jobs are in extremely high demand. With the profession set to grow by up to 18% before 2020, law firms are more frequently recruiting the services of paralegals to free up their lawyers for large cases. Those paralegals who are experts in a field, such as medical malpractice, real estate or bankruptcy, are set to be in even higher demand.
Easy Career Entry
Becoming a paralegal is a great way to work within the law industry without needing to spend years in law school or pass the bar. You could potentially start work within a few months of commencing your studies. Easy entry, however, doesn’t mean low pay. Paralegals earn on average between $45,000 and $55,000 per year, with bonuses and overtime available on top of their basic wage. This figure has been steadily rising over the years, as a paralegal’s duties and responsibilities expand.
It’s Intellectually Challenging
Studying for a paralegal degree is difficult. It’s challenging work and there is a lot to learn. You’ll get to become an expert on the law, as well as any field you might choose to specialize in. Laws change, and get adapted, every day, so you’ll never stop learning. You will also develop new skills. Some of these include:
- Computing
- Communication
- Organization
- Research
- Drafting
- Problem solving
- Critical thinking
Flexible Study Options
Studying any online degree gives you many fantastic options. Paralegal studies are no different. You can choose to study at times that suit you, either around your family, job, or other responsibilities, without losing any support or access to resources.
Transferable Skills
Both online study and paralegal studies help you to build up a wide range of skills, all of which will look fantastic on your resume and allow you to move on to a wide range of different careers, both in and out of the law industry. Online study will help you build up your organizational skills, but you’ll need to be exceptionally motivated and great at managing your own time. As a paralegal graduate, you’d have a head start if you ever decided to go to law school, as well as having the skills needed to find work in many administration or management roles.
Being a paralegal is prestigious career that allows you to challenge yourself and help others. Many paralegals are skilled, organized and compassionate people. If this sounds like you, start on this exciting journey, which could lead to a rewarding career in the future.
