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Paralegal Programs in WisconsinBack in 1994 the State Bar of Wisconsin created the "Paralegal Task Force". Their job was to develop criteria for the licensure of paralegals in Wisconsin, focusing most specifically on the development of standards for training, education, and qualifications. It took many years, but the petition calling for the mandatory licensing of paralegals in Wisconsin was finally addressed by the Supreme Court in April, 2008. It was, however, denied. Recommendations were made for the State Bar to instead create a voluntary certification program for paralegals much like a few other states have already done. That being said, there are no specific regulations or requirements governing paralegals in Wisconsin today. It is likely that the State Bar will move forward with developing a voluntary certification program. Though the certification process will be "voluntary", it may very likely become a hiring criteria for many employers throughout the state. This has been the trend in other states that have developed such programs. There will most definitely be an educational standard that needs to be met when you apply for certification. Similar programs in other states require a degree or certificate in paralegal studies. This is something to keep in mind when you are researching the paralegal programs below. Find Schools in Wisconsin with Campus Based Paralegal Programs Choosing a Paralegal Studies Program in WisconsinSince the state of Wisconsin has not yet developed their certification criteria, it may be a good idea to take a look at the educational standards to become a certified paralegal on a national level. You can read more about the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) PACE Registered Paralegal certification on the NFPA website (www.paralegals.org). Based on the NFPA criteria as well as other states that have developed certification programs for paralegals, general requirements will include an associate's or bachelor's degree in paralegal or legal studies. The Paralegal Association of Wisconsin (PAW) is affiliating with the NFPA, so familiarizing yourself with the educational requirements for PACE RP certification would be beneficial for future networking and the additional benefits that come with becoming a Registered Paralegal and member of the Paralegal Association of Wisconsin. If you already have a college degree in another area of study, a paralegal certificate program may satisfy educational requirements. Regardless if you choose to become a certified paralegal or not, a formal education can help set yourself apart from the competition when applying for a job. When you are researching schools, take a close look at their accreditation. Consider choosing a paralegal program that is either approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), accredited by a regional or national accrediting agency recognized by the US Department of Education, or a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education. There are six ABA approved programs in Wisconsin. Enrolling in one of these can be challenging for some both geographically and sometimes financially. Often ABA approved programs are more expensive because of the money that is spent to get the approval. There are many accredited paralegal programs out there, both online and in the state of Wisconsin, that meet or exceed ABA approval criteria but have never formally applied for approval. Other things to look for when doing your research include learning about the additional services that are offered to you as a student. Many schools offer services such as financial aid, academic and career counseling, internship placement, and access to research facilities such as the law library or computer labs. Many schools actually provide job placement assistance at graduation as well. Below you will find a variety of schools that offer distance learning options. These have become increasingly popular due to their flexibility. Also listed are a number of campuses in Wisconsin that offer ABA approved programs. It is important to note that there no online paralegal programs are currently approved by the American Bar Association. However, you can feel confident that each of the online schools you see here are accredited by a national or regional accrediting body recognized by the United States Department of Education. As a student at any of these schools, you should receive a high quality education that adequately prepares you to become a paralegal.
Online Paralegal Degree Programs in Wisconsin - WI
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
AAS in Paralegal 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
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
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
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
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
Associate's in Paralegal 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 Wisconsin - Campus Based
Chippewa Valley Technical College: ABA approved paralegal program and AAfPE member school Programs Offered: Associate's | Paralegal 620 West Clairemont Avenue
Globe University: This school is a member of the American Association for Paralegal Education. Programs Offered: Associate's, Bachelor's | Paralegal Click Here to request information from the Eau Claire, WI Campus.
Lakeshore Technical College: ABA approved paralegal program and AAfPE member. Programs Offered: Associate's | Paralegal Studies 1290 North Avenue
Madison Area Technical College: ABA approved programs. Programs Offered: Associate's, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate | Paralegal Madison Area Technical College
Milwaukee Area Technical College: ABA approved program and AAfPE member school Programs Offered: Associate's | Legal Assistant 700 West State Street
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College: ABA approved paralegal program and AAfPE member Programs Offered: Associate's, Post-Baccalaureate Certificate | Paralegal 2740 West Mason Street
Rasmussen College: Green Bay, WI location. The school is Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), a Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA) and licensed by the State of Wisconsin Educational Approval Board. Programs Offered: Associate's | Paralegal Click Here to learn more about this program and the Green Bay, WI campus.
Western Technical College: ABA approved paralegal program and AAfPE member school Programs Offered: Associate's | Paralegal Program 400 - 7th Street North |
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