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If you want a career in law without becoming an attorney, working as a paralegal in Arizona can be a smart choice. The first step is getting the right education from an accredited program. Arizona has several schools that offer strong paralegal training-in community colleges, universities, and private institutions.
Here's what you need to know to pick the best school and start your career on the right path.
How to Become a Paralegal in Arizona
Arizona does not require paralegals to have a state-issued license. Employers usually look for candidates with an associate degree, bachelor's degree, or a certificate in paralegal studies. While you can work without certification, completing an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved program can give you a competitive edge.
Typical steps include:
- Choose an ABA-approved or regionally accredited school.
- Complete a degree or certificate program in paralegal studies.
- Gain practical experience through an internship.
- Consider earning a national certification, such as from NALA - The Paralegal Association.
- Apply for entry-level paralegal positions in law firms, corporations, or government agencies.
Note: Arizona law allows attorneys to delegate substantive legal work to paralegals under their direct supervision. Paralegals cannot give legal advice or represent clients in court.
Best Paralegal Schools in Arizona
The following schools are well-regarded within the state. All offer paralegal programs that prepare you for immediate entry into the legal field.
1. Phoenix College
- Program Type: Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies, Certificate of Completion
- ABA-Approved: Yes
- Program Length:
- AAS: 60-64 credits
- Certificate: Varies based on prior education
- Highlights: Phoenix College has one of the oldest ABA-approved paralegal programs in Arizona. Offers day, evening, and online classes. Strong internship network with local firms.
2. Rio Salado College
- Program Type: Certificate of Completion (CCL) and AAS in Paralegal
- ABA-Approved: Yes
- Program Length:
- CCL: Approximately 30 credits
- AAS: 60+ credits
- Highlights: Online-friendly format. Ideal for working adults. Offers academic advising tailored to legal careers.
3. University of Arizona
- Program Type: Paralegal Certificate Program (Continuing & Professional Education)
- ABA-Approved: Yes
- Program Length: 14 weeks (full-time online cohort) or 1 year (part-time)
- Highlights: Intensive program for students with prior college experience. Strong focus on legal research and writing.
4. Arizona State University (ASU)
- Program Type: Online Paralegal Studies Certificate
- ABA-Approved: No (but regionally accredited)
- Program Length: ~1 year part-time
- Highlights: Flexible schedule. Prepares students for certification exams. Good option for those already holding a degree.
- Program Type: AAS in Paralegal Studies, Post-Degree Certificate
- ABA-Approved: Yes
- Program Length:
- AAS: ~64 credits
- Certificate: ~30 credits
- Highlights: Offers hands-on training through internships. Convenient locations in Tucson.
| School Name | Program Type | ABA Approved | Length | Location |
| Phoenix College | AAS, Certificate | Yes | 1.5-2 years | Phoenix |
| Rio Salado College | CCL, AAS | Yes | 1-2 years | Online/Phoenix |
| University of Arizona | Certificate | Yes | 14 weeks-1 yr | Online/Tucson |
| Arizona State Univ. | Certificate | No | ~1 year | Online/Tempe |
| Pima Community College | AAS, Certificate | Yes | 1-2 years | Tucson |
What to Look for in a Paralegal Program
When comparing programs, focus on:
- ABA Approval - Shows the program meets national standards.
- Internship Opportunities - Crucial for real-world experience.
- Flexible Scheduling - Important if you work while studying.
- Location & Format - Consider online vs. in-person classes.
- Faculty Experience - Instructors with real legal backgrounds help you learn practical skills.
Paralegal Certification Options
National certification is voluntary but beneficial. The main organizations offering exams are:
- NALA - The Paralegal Association (Certified Paralegal credential)
- NFPA - National Federation of Paralegal Associations (Paralegal CORE Competency Exam)
- NALS - The Association for Legal Professionals
Some Arizona employers strongly prefer certified applicants, especially in corporate law.
Career Settings for Paralegals in Arizona
After training, you could work in:
- Law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies
- Nonprofits
- Real estate companies
- Insurance firms
Each setting has different responsibilities, from trial preparation to corporate contract review.
Continuing Education Requirements
While Arizona does not mandate continuing education for paralegals, national certification bodies often do. For example:
NALA Certified Paralegals must complete 50 hours of continuing legal education (CLE) every five years to maintain their credential.
Next Steps
If you're ready to start, here's a simple plan:
- Review the schools listed above and visit their websites.
- Contact admissions to confirm tuition, start dates, and prerequisites.
- Ask about internships and job placement rates.
- Decide between an AAS program or a certificate based on your current education.
- Enroll in the program and plan your study schedule.
Starting your paralegal career in Arizona is straightforward if you pick the right program. Look for ABA approval, strong internship connections, and a schedule that fits your life. With the right training, you'll be ready to support attorneys in a variety of legal settings.
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