• NFPA PACE Exam Eligibility
• Paralegal Programs in the U.S.
• ABA vs non-ABA Programs

Paralegal Programs in Rhode Island - RI

There are no licensure or education requirements needed to become a paralegal in Rhode Island. The Rhode Island Paralegal Association (RIPA) is a member of the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) and supports paralegals in Rhode Island becoming Registered Paralegals (RP) through NFPA and the PACE exam. There are specific requirements for eligibility to sit for the PACE exam including formal education or training. The paralegal profession has also seen an increase in the complexity of legal work encountered, which is driving many employers to seek those paralegals with a formal training.

There is one American Bar Association (ABA) approved paralegal program in Rhode Island. There are also many other online and campus based options in the state as well as in neighboring states to choose from.

Find Nationally and Regionally Accredited Online Paralegal Programs
Find Campus Based Paralegal Programs in Rhode Island

Choosing a Paralegal Program

As was mentioned above, the NFPA offers the PACE exam and an opportunity to earn the title of Registered Paralegal (RP) if one successfully passes the exam. The RP title demonstrates to employers and colleagues a commitment to the profession and continuing education. Paralegals must have a combination of legal field work experience as well as a formal education to be eligible to sit for the PACE exam. Learn more about the NFPA PACE exam. Consider these criteria as well as the progression and competitiveness for jobs in the paralegal profession when choosing a paralegal program.

Since there are no licensure or regulations placed on becoming a paralegal in Rhode Island, it is wise to contact local employers to learn about their preferred qualifications when hiring paralegals. This will provide a better picture of the paralegal job marketplace and what you can do to set yourself apart with education and work experience.

Formal education in the form of an associate's, bachelor's or post-degree paralegal certificate has become the trend across the country and employers expect to see this on an applicant's application. In the metropolitan or urban areas of Rhode Island, the more prestigious firms may want their paralegals to have a bachelor's from an ABA approved program. Again, checking with potential places of employment will give you a better idea of which school and program to choose.

The American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE), the recognized national authority on paralegal education, recommends earning an associate's, bachelor's, master's or post-degree certificate with a minor, major or concentration in paralegal/legal studies. They also recommend earning the credential at an ABA approved paralegal program or at an AAfPE member school or at a school that has been institutionally accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education.

Below you will find online and campus based schools in Rhode Island and their accreditation information.

Paralegal Degree Programs Offered Online in Rhode Island

= Editor Recommended Program

Bryant & Stratton College : Bryant & Stratton College Online is accredited by the Commission on Higher Education of the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, one of the six regional accreditation agencies recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education and the Commission on Recognition of Postsecondary Accreditation.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

Virginia College: Virginia College is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), which is an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

Kaplan University - School of Legal Studies: The Paralegal Studies Department at Kaplan University, is nationally recognized and offers the top paralegal programs in the country, including one of the leading paralegal associate degree programs. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Graduates with work experience are eligible to sit for the NFPA Pace exam.

AAS in Paralegal Studies
BS in Paralegal Studies
Post-Baccalaureate Pathway to Paralegal Certificate
Advanced Start in BS Paralegal Studies
Advanced Start in BS Legal Studies
BS in Legal Studies

Herzing University Online: Herzing University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, which is an accrediting body recognized by the US Department of Education. Graduates of the AS in Legal Assisting and Paralegal program are eligible to sit for the Certified Legal Assistant and Certified Paralegal exams administered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).

AS in Legal Assisting and Paralegal
BS in Legal Studies

Colorado Technical University/Stonecliffe College: Stonecliffe College Online offers one of the most up to date and accredited paralegal associate degree programs in the country. Students are educated in document organization systems, handling document production, how to write legal correspondence and other relevant skills necessary for paralegal career preparation. Accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

A.S. Paralegal Studies

Everest University Online: The Everest University Online paralegal associate degree program is widely recognized for graduating some of the most qualified and successful paralegals in the country. Let Everest help you pursue your paralegal education and career goals. Request information today! Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Paralegal Associate's Degree
Paralegal Bachelor's Degree

George Washington University: This program is identical to the on-campus master's program offered at GW, but offered entirely online..

Master of Professional Studies in Paralegal Studies

Keiser University: E-Campus Online Programs. Accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, which is recognized as a national accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor's in Legal Studies

Minnesota School of Business: Request information from the online paralegal program today. Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Certificate in Paralegal
Associate's in Paralegal
Bachelor's in Paralegal

Rasmussen College: Accredited by the The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools a national accrediting agency recognized by the United States Board of Education.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

South University: South University is regionally accredited by the Commission on Colleges, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). The University is also a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE)

Associate's in Paralegal Studies
Bachelor's in Legal Studies

Southwest Florida College Online: Request information from the associate's in Paralegal Studies program today. Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS), an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Associate's in Paralegal Studies

Paralegal Degree Programs in Rhode Island - Campus Based

Roger Williams University: ABA approved paralegal programs and member school of the AAfPE.

Programs Offered: Bachelor's, Post-Degree Certificate | Paralegal Studies

One Old Ferry Road
Bristol, RI 02809
PH: 401-254-5602

Community College of Rhode Island: Accreditation by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges is in process.

Programs Offered: Associate's | Paralegal Studies

400 East Avenue
Warwick, Rhode Island 02886-1807
PH: 401-825-1000