ABA Accreditation
Formal paralegal training programs are offered by an estimated 1,000 two-year colleges, four-year colleges & universities, law schools, and business & proprietary schools. Approximately 260 (26%) of those paralegal programs are approved by the American Bar Association (ABA).
When choosing an educational program, keep in mind that “seeking approval from the American Bar Association is a voluntary process initiated by the institution offering the program. Therefore, the lack of approval does not necessarily mean a paralegal program is not of good quality and reputable.”*** Certain paralegal programs require an four-year bachelor's degree to apply and attend, which allows their graduate-level programs to be completed in less time than other programs that may be ABA accredited since credit hours need not be earned towards / applied towards prerequisites.
***American Bar Association: ABA Standing Committee on Paralegals Career Information.
https://www.americanbar.org/groups/paralegals
