Arkansas Paralegal Schools

Arkansas paralegal schools are the right fit for residents who want to get the education and experience they need to enter the workforce in a field with high demand and that offers a competitive wage. While wages for paralegals may not be as high as they are in other states, the low cost of living in the state makes earning a paralegal degree and becoming a paralegal in Arkansas an enticing option.

Coursework at Arkansas Paralegal Schools

Paralegals are involved in legal research and writing, interviewing witnesses and any aspect of law that doesn’t involve directly advising clients or representing them in court. Arkansas paralegal schools therefore cover a wide variety of coursework whether aspirants are working towards a two-year degree, four-year bachelor’s degree or certificate program. In addition to general education requirements, a heavy emphasis is placed on civil litigation, criminal law as well as legal writing and research.

Featured Paralegal Schools in Arkansas

There are currently two Arkansas paralegal schools certified by the American Bar Association, Northwest Arkansas Community College in Bentonville and the University of Arkansas in Fort Smith. Both offer two-year associate’s degree programs with NWACC offering either trial practice or an internship. Those considering online options for either reasons of cost or schedule may also want to research South University and Everest College, which offer programs based on national standards.

Arkansas Paralegal Salary and Job Outlook

The average salary for a paralegal in Arkansas is more than $37,000, with more than 90 percent making more than $24,000 per year. Those considering becoming a paralegal in Arkansas may have seen higher salaries in other states. Keep in mind that in Little Rock, the cost of living is about 40 percent cheaper than the national average. Plus, with major corporations like Wal-Mart nearby, there are good options for growth with multi-national firms.

Online and Arkansas Paralegal Schools