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If you want to start a career as a paralegal in Maryland, the first step is finding the right school. Choosing a program isn’t just about location-it’s about accreditation, hands-on training, and the skills you’ll need to work in a legal office from day one. In Maryland, you’ll find community colleges, universities, and specialized certificate programs that meet professional standards.
A paralegal’s work includes preparing legal documents, researching cases, and supporting lawyers in trial preparation. Maryland does not license paralegals at the state level, but most employers require formal education from an accredited or ABA-approved program. The right program will:
Without proper training, it’s tough to compete in the job market, especially in larger cities like Baltimore and Rockville where the legal field is competitive.
Below are some of the known schools offering paralegal studies programs in the state. All of these institutions provide programs designed to prepare students for work in law firms, courts, government agencies, and corporate legal departments.
Anne Arundel Community College is a Public, 2-year in Arnold, MD. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across MD.
Community College of Baltimore County is a Public, 2-year in Baltimore, MD. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across MD.
University of Maryland Global Campus is a Public, 4-year in Adelphi, MD. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across MD.
Stevenson University is a Private nonprofit, 4-year in Owings Mills, MD serving about 3,027 students and accredited by Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across MD.
Harford Community College is a Public, 2-year in Bel Air, MD. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across MD.
Frederick Community College is a Public, 2-year in Frederick, MD. Graduates gain job-ready skills that align with employer demand across MD.
Note: ABA approval is a national standard set by the American Bar Association for paralegal education, recognized by many law firms and government employers.
Most paralegal programs in Maryland include these core areas:
Program Length:
| Credential | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Certificate | 6-12 months (full time) |
| Associate Degree | 2 years (full time) |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 4 years (full time, transfer options available) |
Some schools offer evening, weekend, or online classes for working adults.
While Maryland does not require certification, many paralegals choose to earn a voluntary credential to stand out when applying for jobs. The two most recognized national credentials are:
Tip: If you plan to work in a specialized area such as environmental law, intellectual property, or family law, advanced certification can be a strong advantage.
When comparing schools, use this checklist:
Visit each school’s website, review the course catalog, and contact admissions to confirm program details and costs.
Getting started is straightforward if you follow these steps:
The best paralegal schools in Maryland will give you both the knowledge and the hands-on experience to apply for roles upon completion. Focus on ABA-approved programs with strong internship connections. Once you graduate, you’ll be ready for roles in law firms, government agencies, and corporate offices.
Here’s what you need to do next: research each school, compare program lengths and costs, and apply to the one that matches your career goals and schedule. The sooner you start, the sooner you can apply for roles in Maryland’s legal field.
Sources:
Learn more about this career, including national salary data and certification paths, in our How to Become a Paralegal career guide.
