This page is a selection of legal and criminal justice program types and what to look for when comparing schools, not a ranking. The schools listed further down are examples of institutions that offer legal programs; they are not ordered by any measured criterion. Legal programs train students for work in paralegal studies, criminal justice, legal administration, or law enforcement, preparing graduates for law firms, courts, correctional institutions, and government agencies.
Popular Programs
If you are still deciding, browsing a few related programs can help you compare timelines and training formats.
Programs emphasize practical experience, including internships, mock trials, and legal writing projects designed to strengthen critical thinking and professional readiness.
What to Look for in a Legal Program
Legal and justice programs differ in accreditation, accessibility, and reported outcomes. Consider:
Accreditation: Paralegal programs holding ABA approval, or institutions holding institutional accreditation
Career readiness: Internship and practicum experiences in legal settings
Faculty background: Courses taught by practicing attorneys, judges, and law enforcement professionals
Certification preparation: Training aligned with exams like NALA, NALS, or state POST certification
Career services: Advising and employer connections (verify outcomes with the school)
These programs serve both entry-level students and professionals seeking advancement in the legal field.
Common Legal Majors and Concentrations
Legal and public safety degrees span a variety of disciplines. The most common include:
Paralegal Studies: Research, drafting, and case preparation under attorney supervision
Criminal Justice: Law enforcement, courts, and corrections systems
Legal Studies: Broader foundation in constitutional and business law
Court Reporting: Real-time transcription and legal recordkeeping
Homeland Security and Emergency Management: Policy and field response for public safety
Legal Administration: Office management and legal operations
Each track blends law, ethics, and practical experience.
Career Outlook
Pay and growth vary by occupation and jurisdiction. According to BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2025) and Employment Projections (2024-34):
Occupation
BLS median annual wage (May 2025)
Projected growth 2024-34
Paralegals and legal assistants
$62,890
0.2 percent
Police and sheriff’s patrol officers
$76,210
3.1 percent
Correctional officers and jailers
$58,940
-7.8 percent
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025 (wages); BLS Employment Projections 2024-34 (growth). BLS projects about 39,300 paralegal and legal assistant openings per year over the decade, mostly from workers leaving the occupation. Graduates often enter roles in law offices, corporate compliance, or government agencies, with opportunities for specialization through continuing education.
How This List Was Assembled
The schools below were selected as examples of institutions that offer legal or criminal justice programs and hold institutional accreditation. They are not ranked, and their order does not reflect quality, cost, or outcomes. Use the criteria above and each school’s own published data to compare them.
**How long does it take to earn a paralegal or legal studies degree?**Certificate programs commonly take **6-12 months**, while associate and bachelor's degrees range from **2-4 years**, depending on specialization and transfer credits.**Are paralegal programs ABA-approved?**Some are. ABA approval is voluntary and applies to individual paralegal programs, not whole schools. Check the ABA's directory of approved programs, and note that many employers also hire graduates of non-ABA-approved programs.**Can I study criminal justice or legal studies online?**Yes. Many schools offer **online or hybrid degrees** in legal support and criminal justice, designed for working adults or active professionals.**What careers can I pursue with a legal degree?**Graduates work as **paralegals, legal assistants, correctional officers, investigators, compliance officers, or policy analysts**, depending on their area of study.
