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Best Undergraduate Online Legal Studies Degree Programs

keiser university law school

The Students Before Profits Awards recognize institutions that put students before profits. It applauds those schools that put education before the bottom line. For our top online Bachelor in Legal Studies degrees ranking, we have selected the best online undergraduate programs for legal studies and related fields. 

Nearly every industry deals with legal issues in some manner. An understanding of legal processes is no longer relegated to just the legal department. From finance to social work to government, there is an increasing demand for professionals with legal training. A bachelor in legal studies program can help prepare students for a variety of law-related careers. These degrees are designed for students interested in careers in the legal field, government, and the corporate world. 

How Long Does a Legal Studies Bachelor Degree Online Take?

All of the listed programs are available online. Online programs offer flexibility if you already have a busy life and a demanding work schedule. Depending on the legal studies program, students can create a study plan that fits their unique needs. For example, most bachelor’s programs require 120 credit hours. However, many online programs offer courses in six to eight-week formats. With a full course load, some programs can be completed ahead of schedule.

Additionally, if you have already completed your general education courses, most schools allow you to transfer credits. This will also lessen the time needed to complete your bachelor’s degree. Be sure to check your school’s requirements.

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Best Online Legal Studies Bachelor Degree Rankings

This ranking features 30 of the best online bachelor in legal studies degree programs. All of the listed schools are regionally accredited, and programs are listed by affordability. The figures shown are the in-state undergraduate tuition costs per academic year. Please note that tuition for remote or out-of-state students may vary. 

#1. UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

Gainesville, Florida

UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Criminology

UF offers the most affordable online legal studies programs on our list. The program examines the law, criminal justice systems, and criminal behavior. The criminology major enables students to understand crime and how society reacts to it. It includes learning about the theories of crime and methods for studying crime, law, and society. As a result, graduates will be prepared for criminal or juvenile justice careers. They will also be ready for further educational ambitions in law or graduate school. A few core courses in this legal studies program include:

  • Advanced Principles of C.J.
  • Law and Society
  • United States to 1877
  • United States Since 1877
  • General Anthropology

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $3,876

Related: Online Master’s in Legal Studies

#2. WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY

Cullowhee, North Carolina

WESTERN CAROLINA UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration Law

WCU offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Law. The legal studies program provides majors with a quality education in business administration, law, and business policy. This undergraduate program is unique to the University of North Carolina system. Graduates of this bachelor of law degree online get a solid background in business and the pre-law foundation necessary for law school. They also get the skills to work in legal offices or in a law firm. Some of the online courses in this legal studies online bachelor’s degree include:

  • Bankruptcy 
  • Topics in Business Law 
  • Hospitality Law
  • Business Assets 
  • Media Law 
  • Litigation in Business 

WCU has the second-most affordable online bachelor’s degree in pre-law that we’ve found. Plus, federal financial aid is also available.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $4,387

 #3. FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY

Fort Myers, Florida

FLORIDA GULF COAST UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice 

Florida Gulf Coast University offers a fully online B.C.J. program. And students can specialize in corrections, law enforcement, or legal studies. Other choices include juvenile justice or management in criminal justice. The program also prepares students for success in graduate school. Graduates have the skills needed to be successful in the field of criminal justice. The curriculum teaches critical thinking, writing, and research skills. Featured courses in this legal studies degree program include:

  • Organization and Administration of C.J.
  • Methods of C.J. Research
  • C.J. Data Analysis
  • Ethics in the C.J System
  • Leadership & Management in C.J. Agencies

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,118

 #4. UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA

Orlando, Florida

UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL FLORIDA: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor in Legal Studies

UCF offers an affordable online Bachelor in Legal Studies. The program is designed to provide students with a broad understanding of the basic principles of law and the role and function of the legal system. This means that UCF graduates will be prepared for law-related careers. They also have the foundation for graduate school. The program’s full-time professors are all graduates of American Bar Association-approved legal schools. The program takes a total of 120 credit hours.

UFC also offers online bachelor’s programs in C.J. and political science.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,368

 #5. VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY

Valdosta, Georgia

VALDOSTA STATE UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Legal Assistant Studies

VSU offers a Bachelor of Arts in Legal Assistant Studies. The program prepares students to conduct legal research and apply it in various settings within the legal system. They will be able to understand and act upon ethical dilemmas. And they will gain deep insight into the American legal system. Most students also complement their studies with a related minor. 

Graduates are qualified to take the national certification test for legal assistants. This step prepares them for careers in the field or further study in law school. In addition, students must declare a formal minor in a related field and complete an internship within the legal profession. Students in the legal studies degree program enjoy small classes and one-on-one interaction with faculty. The program takes a total of 120 credit hours. Federal financial aid is available.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $6,583

#6. ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY

Jonesboro, Arkansas

ARKANSAS STATE UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of General Studies with Emphasis in Criminology

Arkansas State offers an affordable online Bachelor of General Studies with Emphasis in Criminology. The program gives students general knowledge, skills, and insight into the justice system. Students gain knowledge of criminal behavior, investigation, and prevention. Graduates are prepared for careers relating to local and state law enforcement and social services. The program is designed to accommodate students who need a flexible pathway to complete their studies. The program takes a total of 120 credit hours. However, students can transfer in up to 90 credit hours. Some of the required courses for this legal studies program include:

  • Institutional Corrections 
  • Community Corrections 
  • Police and Society
  • Criminology 
  • Juvenile Delinquency 
  • Serial Homicide

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $7,130

#7. BELLEVUE UNIVERSITY

Bellevue, Nebraska

BELLEVUE UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

The Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies at BU is designed to help students develop and carry out ideas in the legal field. It prepares them with a strong foundation for a range of career options in both the public and private sectors. Students are taught by instructors who have real-world expertise and experience. Courses are also led by specialists such as federal judges, lawmakers, lobbyists, and corporate leaders. 

The program takes a total of 127 credit hours. Students may transfer up to 60 credits. Some of the courses in this legal studies degree program include:

  • Foundations for Professional Success
  • Theory and Practice of Law
  • The American Criminal and Civil Legal Systems
  • Professional Responsibility and Ethics in Law

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $8,310

 #8. CENTRAL WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

Ellensburg, Washington

CENTRAL WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Law and Justice

CWU offers a Bachelor of Arts in Law and Justice. The program gives students the analytical ability, skill, and knowledge for careers in law and justice. Graduates are ready for entry into graduate or law school. They also gain a solid foundation in the history and philosophy of the legal system. Additionally, they will study contemporary trends in law and society. All coursework for this program is available on-campus and online. A few courses for this legal studies degree program include:

  • Investigation
  • Police Community Relations
  • Police Personnel Administration
  • Issues in Policing
  • Juvenile Justice Process
  • Court Structure and Process
  • C.J. and the Media

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Tuition: $8,685

#9. NORTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA

Natchitoches, Louisiana

NORTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, Concentration in Pre Law and Paralegal Studies

NSU offers a B.C.J. with a concentration in Pre Law and Paralegal Studies. The program provides a well-rounded liberal arts degree with a legal focus. Graduates can move directly into the legal field in a support position in paralegal employment. They will be sufficiently prepared to continue their education at law schools or pursue work at a law firm. Some of the legal studies degree program courses include:

  • Real Estate and Mortgages
  • Corporations
  • Family Relation Law
  • Law Office Administration
  • Litigation
  • Legal Research
  • Introduction to Law

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $8,762

#10. WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

Canyon, Texas

WEST TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Business Administration with Economics/Law & Economics Specialization

West Texas A&M offers a Bachelor of Business Administration with an Economics/Law & Economics Specialization. Students have the flexibility to study on-campus, online, or in a hybrid format. The online program allows students to continue working while still gaining law experience. 

Students will learn how the law affects fields as diverse as healthcare, conflict resolution, and more. Graduates of the program will have a thorough grasp of how our economy operates. They will also be prepared for further law degree studies. Featured courses for this legal studies degree program include:

  • Emerging Media Law
  • Digital Communication and Collaboration
  • Economics of Healthcare
  • Personal Financial Planning
  • Investments

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $9,20

#11. PURDUE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL

West Lafayette, Indiana

PURDUE UNIVERSITY GLOBAL: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Legal Support and Services

Purdue Global offers an excellent online Bachelor of Science in Legal Support and Services. The program gives students a broad-based foundation in the knowledge of the law and other related practical study areas. Students also get the functional and technical skills required for various career paths in the legal field. Students need a total of 93 credit hours to meet the major requirements. Prospective students can also couple this program with an accelerated online Master’s degree. Featured online courses include:

  • Introduction to the Law and Legal Profession 
  • Introduction to American Jurisprudence
  • Legal Research and Writing
  • Advanced Legal Research and Writing
  • Legal Ethics 
  • Major Elective
  • Law and Society

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $10,125

Related: Best Online Graduate Schools

#12. ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY

Scottsdale, Arizona

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy with a Concentration in Morality, Politics, and Law

ASU offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy with a Concentration in Morality, Politics, and Law. The program combines analytical approaches with a focus on moral issues in political theory. As a result, students will enrich their understanding of the intersections of morality, politics, and law. This degree program is of particular interest to prospective students planning to pursue postgraduate work in law, policy, or politics. A few required courses in this legal studies degree program include:

  • Principles of Sound Reasoning
  • History of Ethics
  • Ethical Theory
  • History of Modern Philosophy
  • Intro to Ethics

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $10,710

#13. UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND GLOBAL CAMPUS

College Park, Maryland

UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND GLOBAL CAMPUS: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies

UMGC offers an excellent online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies. The program is designed to give students the tools to confidently and competently thrive in legal environments. Students will learn to produce and review forms and legal documents, apply statutes to legal cases, and assess fact patterns. They are also prepared to work in a professional support position in advocacy, research, and case review. Core curriculum courses include:

  • Legal Writing 
  • Legal Ethics 
  • Advanced Legal Writing 
  • Torts 
  • Domestic Relations
  • Criminal Law and Procedures 
  • Litigation 

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $10,955

#14. CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

California, Pennsylvania

CALIFORNIA UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Jurisprudence

California University of Pennsylvania offers an online Bachelor in Jurisprudence. The program is a comprehensive program featuring expert faculty and an in-depth curriculum. Graduates are ready to interpret and analyze legal materials such as case law and statutory materials. They can conduct legal research on diverse topics in the law. Additionally, students will learn to evaluate and critique the rules of crimes and criminal responsibility. Some courses include:

  • Classical Jurisprudence
  • Medieval Jurisprudence
  • Anglo-American Jurisprudence
  • The Paralegal Profession
  • Legal Research and Writing
  • Litigation and Trial Evidence

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $11,108

#15. WILMINGTON UNIVERSITY

New Castle, Delaware

WILMINGTON UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Bachelor of Science in Law, Policy, and Political Science

Wilmington offers a Bachelor of Science in Law, Policy, and Political Science. There are three concentrations to choose from. They include Legal Studies, Political Science, and Government and Public Policy. The legal studies concentration is ABA-approved. This offers students the best credentials possible. 

The program provides the legal foundation needed for a career as a paralegal, claims analyst, or other law-related position. Graduates are also prepared to continue pursuing a law degree. Students build their work experience through internships with respected local firms and organizations. Classes are offered in the classroom or online. Some of the featured courses include:

  • Introduction to Legal Studies
  • Legal Research
  • Civil Procedure
  • Global Financial Compliance
  • American Legal History
  • Environmental Compliance

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $11,760

#16. UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

Tucson, Arizona

UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Law

The University of Arizona offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Law degree. The program provides training in critical skills that increase employability across multiple law professions. It aims to teach students to “think like a lawyer” when solving problems and to make clear, logical arguments. With this program, students get a core legal education taught by top law school professors. 

Launch your career early with a legal internship, or qualify for an accelerated path to graduate school. This bachelor’s degree offers opportunities for networking with law firms and other organizations. Plus, students can specialize in a particular area of study or a double major to pair with law. Some of the offered courses are:

  • Introduction to Public International Law
  • Judicial Process
  • The American Public Law System
  • Immigration Law & Policy
  • Procedure

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $12,736

#17. PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY

University Park, Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society

Penn State offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Law and Society. The program provides training in the law, legal principles, and legal systems and processes in the United States. Graduates have skills in logic, rhetoric, research, and legal writing. Law and Society majors analyze legal practices and envision social justice. Legal brief writing and the philosophy of law and legal ethics are core requirements. This program is great for those who want to become legal assistants or pursue a graduate degree. Some of the courses in the program include:

  • Contemporary Legal Issues
  • Rights in America
  • Law & Society
  • History of Work in America
  • American Constitutional Law

Penn State also offers an online bachelor of science in C.J.

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $14,338

#18. ROWAN UNIVERSITY

Glassboro, New Jersey

ROWAN UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Law and Justice

Rowan University offers an excellent Bachelor of Arts in Law and Justice. The program is offered fully online. It gives students solid academic preparation in criminal law and the justice system. The coursework enhances critical thinking, reasoning, writing, and logic skills. Graduates are prepared for careers in four major areas. They include law enforcement and security services, court services, corrections, and human services. The program also prepares students for continued law education or work in law firms. Some of the required courses include:

  • Survey of C.J.
  • Introduction to Corrections
  • Criminal Law
  • C.J. Internship 
  • Theories of Crime and Criminality
  • C.J. Research

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $14,376

#19. PIERCE COLLEGE

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

PIERCE COLLEGE: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies

Pierce College offers an online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies. It is the only ABA-approved bachelor’s paralegal degree program in the Philadelphia area. The program gives students the foundation for a successful legal career. Courses are led by legal experts who work closely with the local, regional, and national legal community. Graduates are prepared for work at major law firms, corporate offices, or with the government. They can also continue their education in graduate school. Featured courses include:

  • Tort Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Professional Legal Responsibility
  • Legal Technology
  • Family Law
  • Real Estate Law
  • Business Organizations

Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Tuition: $15,060

#20. SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY

Manchester, New Hampshire

SOUTHERN NEW HAMPSHIRE UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice – Human Services and Advocacy 

SNHU offers an online B.C.J. degree. Students can choose a concentration in Human Services and Advocacy. The program equips students to advocate and become a voice for justice. Students explore civilians’ various roles and functions in the American legal system. In addition, students gain a thorough understanding of the legal processes and the criminal justice system. Many graduates go on to pursue higher law education degrees. Some of the required courses are:

  • Public Policy and Advocacy
  • Family and Community Systems
  • Ethics and Laws in Child Welfare

Accreditation: New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Tuition: $15,380

#21. GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY

Phoenix, Arizona

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Government with an Emphasis in Legal Studies

Grand Canyon University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Government with an Emphasis on Legal Studies. The university infuses Christian ethics into the curriculum. The program combines a liberal arts education with the structure and complexity of law and government. It provides a basic framework for students interested in legal or public service professions. Graduates are prepared for careers in law firms, civil law, or criminal fields. Plus, they will also have met the requirements to enter graduate school. A few courses include:

  • Introduction to Comparative Government and International 
  • American Constitution Total Credits
  • Philosophy of Law Total Credits
  • Research Methods in Government and Politics Total Credits
  • Public Policy Analysis Total Credits

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $17,800

#22. REGENT UNIVERSITY

Virginia Beach, Virginia

REGENT UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Programs:

Online Bachelor of Arts in Government with a Pre-Law concentration

Online Bachelor of Arts in Law and National Security

Online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies

Regent University offers three online bachelor’s degree programs in law-related disciplines. Students can choose from a bachelor’s degree in Law and National Security, Paralegal Studies, or Government with a Pre-Law concentration. 

These online programs equip students with research, communication, and organizational skills. Graduates have the technology skills needed to pursue a meaningful career in the law field. Some of the core courses for these law bachelor degree online programs include:

  • Persuasive Communication
  • Business And Professional Writing
  • The American Judicial System
  • Constitutional Law

At number 22 on our list, we’ve found that Regent offers one of the best online pre-law degrees for undergraduates that we have found.

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition:$18,820

#23. KEISER UNIVERSITY

Ft Lauderdale, Florida

KEISER UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies

Keiser University offers an excellent Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies. Students can choose to add a concentration in Law Management. The program trains students for careers in law and law-related fields. It also prepares them to pursue graduate law degrees. Graduates have the skills for successful integration into a law office atmosphere. They also learn how the law impacts most professional fields. 

The law office management concentration trains students for traditional paralegal and management positions. All coursework is available online for this program. Featured major requirements include:

  • Legal Drafting 
  • Criminal Procedure
  • Business Organizations
  • Income Tax 
  • Worker’s Compensation 
  • Legal Interviewing & Investigation
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Tuition: $22,000

#24. LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

Lynchburg, Virginia

LIBERTY UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies

Liberty University offers a great online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies. The program is designed to meet the rapidly growing need for paralegal professionals. It gives students strong professional skills and knowledge in government, politics, law, and ethics. Students are immersed in case studies and experiential learning while exploring law practices. The paralegal degree’s online format is designed to help students flexibly pursue their education. Core curriculum courses include:

  • Constitutional Government and Free Enterprise
  • Foundations of Law
  • Criminal Practice and Procedures
  • Family Law

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools

Tuition: $22,713

See Also: Largest Nonprofit Online Universities

#25. UTICA UNIVERSITY

Utica, New York

UTICA UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice 

Utica College offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. The program reflects the global demand for varied crime-fighting and prevention experts. It gives students the ability to prevent criminal behavior and rehabilitate offenders. Graduates will be well-versed in a system where justice and rights are continually served. Students can choose from six specializations that align with their career goals. Some of the featured courses are:

  • Corruption and Organized Crime
  • White-Collar Criminology
  • Violence in the Workplace
  • Modern Techniques in Crime Investigation
  • Economic Crime Investigation

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $24,214

#26. WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY

Fulton, Missouri

WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies 

William Woods University offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Paralegal Studies. The American Association for Paralegal Education recognizes the program as an institutional member. Students are prepared for roles in various legal-related industries. They gain hands-on experience through the program’s virtual law office practicum requirement. The curriculum focuses on how to apply substantive and procedural law. Graduates are also ready to continue their studies for higher degrees. Some of the included courses in this best online legal studies degree include:

  • Civil Practice 
  • Ethics and the Law Office 
  • Evidence and Fact Gathering
  • Family Law 
  • Criminal Practice
  • Administrative & Federal Procedure 

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $26,730

#27. HAMPTON UNIVERSITY

Hampton, Virginia

HAMPTON UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Arts in Paralegal Studies

Hampton’s features an online Bachelor’s Degree in Paralegal Studies. The program is designed to prepare students for the paralegal field. In addition, it provides opportunities for practicing paralegal professionals to enhance their career credentials. Graduates are prepared to participate as efficient and influential members of legal teams. 

The program combines specialized legal training courses with a solid liberal arts foundation. And it prepares paralegal and prospective law school students for the roles they will play in the legal field. The program also reinforces the principles of verbal and written communication. Some of the coursework includes:

  • Introduction to Economics
  • Introduction to Business
  • Law in Society
  • Legal Research
  • Legal Writing
  • Torts and Personal Injury

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $29,312

#28. PFEIFFER UNIVERSITY

Misenheimer, North Carolina

PFEIFFER UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Pfeifer offers a flexible B.C.J. program. Students can complete the program on-campus, online, or in a hybrid format. The curriculum prepares students for a career in law enforcement or criminology. All participants gain in-depth knowledge of the justice system. 

Graduates are prepared for many law enforcement careers. These include corrections officers, substance abuse counselors, parole officers, and criminologists. They also have the credits needed to enter law school. Some of the included courses are:

  • Introduction to Criminology 
  • Corrections 
  • Ethics in C.J.
  • Law Enforcement Operations 
  • Criminal Law 

Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Tuition: $32,480

#29. DOMINICAN UNIVERSITY

River Forest, Illinois

DOMINICAN UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Professional Studies in Legal Studies

Dominican University features a Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Studies in Legal Studies. The program is interdisciplinary. It explores the American legal system from a wide range of perspectives. These include economics, philosophy, theology, and history. This degree is available through both online and traditional formats of study. Graduates are ready for careers as paralegals, law enforcement officers, and public officials. Some required courses include:

  • Legal Research and Writing
  • Religion and the Law
  • Law & Economics
  • Philosophical Basis of the Law
  • Contracts

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission

Tuition: $35,570

#30. STEVENSON UNIVERSITY

Owings Mills, Maryland

STEVENSON UNIVERSITY: Legal Degree Program Rankings

Legal Studies Degree: Online Bachelor of Science in Legal Studies 

Stevenson offers an online Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies. It is designed for working adults who want to work on a legal team. The team will practice law through investigative research, trial preparation, and litigation support. Graduates of this program will know several fields of law. They will have the skills to perform detailed work researching legal issues. Graduates will also have the skills to interview expert witnesses and prepare legal documents. The program is designed for working professionals. So it is administered primarily online in eight-week sessions with five courses in a hybrid format. Some of the included courses are:

  • American Government
  • Torts
  • Estates and Trusts
  • Contract Law

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Tuition: $38,168

What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s Degree in Legal Studies?

Students with a bachelor’s degree in legal studies can pursue many interesting law-related occupations. It is not always necessary to enroll immediately in law school. Many alumni have found meaningful occupations related to their degree of study. So let’s look at five careers you can get with a legal studies bachelor’s degree. The salaries listed are drawn from the most recent U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports. 

Paralegal

Median Annual Salary: $56,230

Paralegals are critical to the success of law businesses. These legal assistants have a solid understanding of the legal environment. They can assist a legal firm’s attorneys in whatever capacity they require. Typical paralegal duties include: 

  • Legal research
  • Client interviews 
  • Writing and filing briefs
  • Gathering evidence for trial
  • Civil litigation paperwork

Law Enforcement Officer

Median Annual Salary: $66,020

Law Enforcement Officers enforce the law. They usually work in government positions and are vital to the safety of a community’s citizens. Typical Law Enforcement Officer Duties include:

  • Patrolling designated areas
  • Responding to distress calls
  • Monitoring of suspicious activities
  • Investigations crimes 
  • Serving and protecting citizens

Social Worker

Median Annual Salary: $50,390

Social workers are dedicated to assisting people in making positive changes in their life. They recognize the problems that their clients are having and help to find solutions. They practice in various settings, from hospitals to schools to private businesses. Typical duties of a Social Worker include: 

  • Meeting with clients
  • Providing support
  • Community Outreach
  • Resource referrals
  • Advocating for clients

Probation Officer

Median Annual Salary: $60,250

A Probation Officer oversees and assists lawbreakers. Their primary role is to ensure that ex-offenders thrive in society and remain law-abiding citizens. They work for local and state government agencies. Typical Probation Officer duties include:

  • Monitoring offender behaviors
  • Conduct drug screens
  • Meet with offenders
  • Community resource referrals

Court Reporter

Median Annual Salary: $60,380

Court Reporters are vital to the judicial system. They work in courtrooms and produce official transcripts of the proceedings. Focus and attention to detail are essential for these professionals. Court Reporter’s duties include:

  • Operating stenography machine
  • Transcribing dialogue
  • Reviewing recordings for accuracy
  • Storing shorthand notes

What About An Online Associate Degree in Legal Studies? 

Pursuing an associate degree in legal studies can be a great idea. If you want to work in the legal profession, it’s an excellent stepping stone after earning your high school diploma. Of course, you can always go straight to a bachelor’s degree, but an associate degree might be ideal for some students. 

For starters, these programs can help you complete your general education courses. But there are other great reasons for pursuing a two-year degree. For example, an associate program in legal studies prepares students for the legal environment. With this degree, students will learn the basics regarding topics like:

  • How to read legal documents
  • Understanding civil litigation
  • Introduction to legal support services
  • Constitutional law
  • Understanding contract law

An associate degree can also prepare you for more professional law degree programs. Prospective students should look for online associate in criminal justice programs. These programs can provide you with critical thinking skills. They are aimed at preparing students for more advanced legal technology and language. Through these programs, prospective students can gain practical skills to help them become future legal assistants and eventual legal professionals. 

You may also like: Cheapest Online Associate Degree Programs

This concludes our ranking of the best online legal studies bachelor degrees in the US.

NPCO Staff