Best Paralegal Schools in Louisiana

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to become a paralegal in Louisiana, the right school makes all the difference. Competent legal assistants are in demand. Law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments all need skilled support staff. To succeed, you need training in legal research, writing, and case preparation - and Louisiana offers several strong options.

In this guide, we'll walk through what to look for in a paralegal program, the top schools in the state, and how to get started on your career path.

How to Choose the Right Paralegal Program

Not all programs are the same. When comparing schools, focus on factors that affect both your education quality and job readiness.

Key things to look for:

  • Accreditation - Confirm the program is accredited by a recognized agency. This ensures your training meets industry standards.
  • ABA Approval - The American Bar Association (ABA) evaluates programs for quality. While not required, it's a strong credential in the job market.
  • Format - Decide if you want on-campus classes, online learning, or a mix of both.
  • Internship Opportunities - Hands-on experience can help you build your resume before graduation.
  • Length of Program - Associate degree programs take about two years. Certificate programs can be as short as one year.
  • Career Services - Look for a school that offers job placement help, resume reviews, and networking events.

Note: Louisiana does not require paralegals to be licensed, but many employers prefer formal training or certification.

Top Paralegal Schools in Louisiana

Below is a selection of accredited colleges and universities in Louisiana that offer paralegal studies programs. Program lengths vary, so check with each school for details.

School Location Program Type ABA Approved Format
Louisiana State University (LSU) - Paralegal Studies Program Baton Rouge Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Yes On-campus, Hybrid
Tulane University - School of Professional Advancement New Orleans Post-Baccalaureate Certificate Yes Online, On-campus
University of Louisiana at Lafayette Lafayette Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice with Paralegal Concentration No On-campus
Delgado Community College New Orleans Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies Yes On-campus
Bossier Parish Community College Bossier City Associate Degree and Certificate Options No On-campus, Hybrid
Herzing University - New Orleans Campus Kenner Associate Degree in Legal Studies No Online, On-campus

Steps to Start Your Paralegal Career in Louisiana

While the state doesn't regulate paralegal licensing, employers often expect a professional standard of training.

Follow these steps:

  1. Complete a Training Program
    Enroll in an accredited program. Focus on courses covering legal terminology, research, litigation processes, and ethics.

  2. Gain Practical Experience
    Seek internships or part-time work in a law office. Experience in a real legal environment will set you apart.

  3. Consider National Certification
    Even though it's not required in Louisiana, certifications like the NALA Certified Paralegal (CP) or NFPA's Registered Paralegal (RP) can make your resume stronger.

  4. Keep Learning
    Law changes over time. Attend continuing legal education (CLE) sessions when possible.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most paralegals have either an associate degree or a certificate in paralegal studies.

Benefits of Becoming a Paralegal in Louisiana

Choosing this path offers a stable career with a variety of work environments. You can work in areas like real estate law, criminal defense, corporate compliance, or government agencies.

Advantages include:

  • Short training time compared to other professions
  • Opportunity to specialize in legal fields that interest you
  • Skills that transfer to other states if you move
  • The chance to work closely with attorneys on meaningful cases

Questions to Ask Before Enrolling

Before choosing a school, find out:

  • Is the program ABA-approved?
  • What percentage of graduates find jobs in the field within 6 months?
  • Are internships provided or required?
  • What is the student-to-instructor ratio?
  • Does the program have connections with local law firms?

These questions will help you compare programs beyond just cost and location.

Online vs On-Campus Training

Some Louisiana schools offer online paralegal programs. This format works well if you need flexibility due to work or family commitments. On-campus classes provide more face-to-face interaction and networking opportunities. Hybrid programs blend both, allowing for flexibility while keeping in-person benefits.

Tip: Even if you take online classes, try to get local internship experience to build connections in Louisiana's legal community.

Next Steps

Here's what you should do now:

  1. Make a shortlist of 2-3 schools that interest you.
  2. Contact each school for program details, tuition, and start dates.
  3. Ask about internships and job placement rates.
  4. Apply early - programs can fill up fast.

Starting your paralegal career in Louisiana is straightforward if you choose the right training and get hands-on experience. The schools listed above are proven options for building the skills that legal employers need.

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