Best Paralegal Schools in Illinois

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become a paralegal in Illinois, your first step is getting training from an accredited school. Employers look for graduates with solid legal skills, and in most cases, that starts with a certificate or degree from a program approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) or a well-regarded college.

In Illinois, you have several strong choices. Some programs are in community colleges. Others are at universities or career-focused schools. The right one depends on your budget, location, and career goals.

How to Choose a Paralegal Program in Illinois

Your choice of school matters because it can influence your job prospects. Here are the main factors to consider:

  • Accreditation: Look for ABA-approved programs or regionally accredited schools.
  • Program length: Certificates are quicker; associate and bachelor's degrees take longer but cover more legal topics.
  • Location or online format: Some students need evening classes or online flexibility.
  • Internship opportunities: A good program will help you get practical experience before graduation.
  • Specialized courses: If you're aiming for corporate, criminal, or family law, check the course catalog.

Illinois does not license paralegals, but most employers prefer candidates with formal legal training and strong computer research skills 1.

Best Paralegal Schools in Illinois

Here are some of the most respected paralegal education programs in the state. All have a history of producing well-prepared graduates.

1. College of DuPage - Glen Ellyn

  • Type: Community college
  • Program: Post-degree Paralegal Certificate and Associate in Applied Science (AAS)
  • Highlight: Both programs are ABA-approved and combine legal theory with skills training in legal research, writing, and ethics.
  • Website: https://www.cod.edu

2. Loyola University Chicago - Institute for Paralegal Studies

  • Type: Private university
  • Program: Certificate in Paralegal Studies
  • Highlight: Offers flexible evening and online classes. ABA-approved. Students complete a legal externship as part of the program.
  • Website: https://www.luc.edu/paralegal

3. Harper College - Palatine

  • Type: Community college
  • Program: AAS in Paralegal Studies and Certificate option
  • Highlight: Both programs are ABA-approved and focus on practical skills, including technology used in law offices.
  • Website: https://www.harpercollege.edu

4. Roosevelt University - Chicago

  • Type: Private university
  • Program: Paralegal Studies Certificate (post-bachelor's) and AAS in Paralegal Studies
  • Highlight: Small class sizes, ABA approval, and strong alumni network in the Chicago legal community.
  • Website: https://www.roosevelt.edu

5. Southern Illinois University - Carbondale

  • Type: Public university
  • Program: Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies
  • Highlight: One of the few full bachelor's programs in Illinois devoted entirely to paralegal studies. Also ABA-approved.
  • Website: https://www.siu.edu

Comparing Program Lengths

School Credential Length ABA-Approved
College of DuPage Certificate / AAS 1-2 years Yes
Loyola University Chicago Certificate 1 year Yes
Harper College Certificate / AAS 1-2 years Yes
Roosevelt University Certificate / AAS 1-2 years Yes
SIU Carbondale Bachelor's 4 years Yes

Steps to Start Your Paralegal Career in Illinois

  1. Complete an accredited program
    Choose a certificate, associate, or bachelor's degree depending on your current education level and career plans.

  2. Gain real-world experience
    Use internships and externships to build workplace skills.

  3. Learn legal research tools
    Westlaw and LexisNexis are standard in most law firms.

  4. Build a professional network
    Join local paralegal associations like the Illinois Paralegal Association.

  5. Continue your education
    Keep up to date with legal software, research methods, and court procedures.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that employers nationwide prefer paralegal candidates who have completed formal education and hold a degree or specialized certificate 2.

Why ABA-Approval Matters

The American Bar Association evaluates paralegal programs based on curriculum quality, faculty credentials, and resources. Many law firms and government agencies in Illinois specifically request graduates from ABA-approved programs when posting open positions. It is not a legal requirement, but it can give you a hiring advantage.

Online vs. On-Campus Programs

Online paralegal training can suit working adults, but check:

  • If the online format is fully remote or hybrid
  • That the program includes proctored assessments or in-person internships
  • That it meets ABA requirements (many ABA-approved programs have at least some in-person component)

Summary and Next Steps

If you want to work as a paralegal in Illinois, start by making sure your training comes from a strong, reputable school. Focus on ABA-approved options to improve your job outlook. Compare program lengths, locations, and costs. Visit each school's website, check admission requirements, and ask about internships.

Here's what you should do next:

  1. Shortlist 2-3 ABA-approved programs from the list above.
  2. Contact the admissions office to confirm program start dates and costs.
  3. Apply as early as possible to secure your spot.

Getting the right education can set you up for a stable and meaningful legal support career.

  1. Illinois Paralegal Association - https://www.illinoisparalegal.org ↩

  2. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Paralegals and Legal Assistants - https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm ↩

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