Best Paralegal Schools in North Dakota

Updated August 13, 2025

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If you want to start a career as a paralegal in North Dakota, the most important step is choosing the right training program. A solid education can prepare you for the legal skills you need, help you meet employer standards, and put you on the path to professional certification.

In North Dakota, many paralegals work in law firms, corporate offices, and government agencies. While the state does not license paralegals, most employers want formal training.

Below, we'll look at the top schools, what each program offers, and the steps to get started.

Paralegal Education Requirements in North Dakota

North Dakota does not have state licensing for paralegals. However, employers often prefer candidates with one of the following:

  • Associate degree in paralegal studies
  • Bachelor's degree with a paralegal certificate
  • Post-baccalaureate certificate in paralegal studies

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most paralegals complete an associate degree or a four-year degree. Career-focused certificates are also common for people who already have a degree in another field.

Note: Only choose programs approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) or offered by accredited colleges. Many law employers in North Dakota prefer ABA-approved training.

Best Paralegal Schools in North Dakota

Here are some of the most recognized paralegal training options in the state.

1. University of North Dakota (UND) - Paralegal Certificate Program

  • Type: Certificate (online)
  • Length: Flexible, self-paced (usually 12 months or less)
  • Format: 100% online with academic support
  • Highlights: Designed for working adults, covers core areas like legal writing, legal research, and litigation.
  • Ideal for: Students or professionals seeking a flexible online option tied to a well-known state university.

2. North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) - Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal

  • Type: Associate degree
  • Length: 2 years (full-time)
  • Format: In-person on Wahpeton campus
  • Highlights: Includes practical training with legal software and an internship. Strong career services support.
  • Ideal for: Students starting fresh who want a full, career-focused degree.

3. Minot State University - Legal Studies Program

  • Type: Bachelor's degree with legal studies concentration and certificate option
  • Length: 4 years (full-time)
  • Format: Campus-based with some online options
  • Highlights: Broad liberal arts foundation combined with focused legal coursework.
  • Ideal for: Students aiming for advanced roles or considering law school later.

4. Rasmussen University - Paralegal Associate's Degree

  • Type: Associate degree
  • Length: About 18 months (full-time)
  • Format: Online with some campus support in Fargo
  • Highlights: Accelerated format, career-focused courses, frequent start dates.
  • Ideal for: Students looking to enter the workforce quickly without sacrificing core skills training.

Summary Table of Programs

School Program Type Typical Length Format ABA Approved?
University of North Dakota Certificate 12 months Online No
NDS College of Science Associate Degree 2 years In-person Yes
Minot State University Bachelor w/ certificate option 4 years In-person/Hybrid No
Rasmussen University Associate Degree 18 months Online/Hybrid No

Steps to Become a Paralegal in North Dakota

  1. Complete an Accredited Paralegal Program
    Choose the level of education that fits your career goals-associate, bachelor's, or certificate.

  2. Build Core Skills
    Focus on legal research, writing, document preparation, and client communication. These are core skills employers test in interviews.

  3. Consider National Certification
    While not required, credentials like the Certified Paralegal (CP) from the National Association of Legal Assistants help you stand out.

  4. Gain Practical Experience
    Use internships, part-time legal clerk jobs, or volunteer work to build your portfolio.

  5. Apply for Entry-Level Positions
    Start with law firms, corporate legal departments, or local government. Smaller firms may give you broader hands-on experience.

Important Notes About Working as a Paralegal in North Dakota

Paralegals in North Dakota must always work under the direct supervision of a licensed attorney. They cannot give legal advice, present cases in court, or set legal fees.

North Dakota's legal community is tightly connected. Networking through professional associations, such as the North Dakota Paralegal Association, can help you find job leads and mentors.

What to Look for When Choosing a Program

When comparing schools, focus on:

  • Accreditation (preferably ABA-approved)
  • Internship opportunities
  • Access to legal research databases
  • Job placement services
  • Flexible class formats if you're working while studying

Next Steps

If you're ready to start your paralegal career in North Dakota:

  1. Make a shortlist of schools from the options above.
  2. Contact admissions to request course details, tuition costs, and start dates.
  3. Compare program features and internship support.
  4. Apply early to secure your place, as class sizes can be limited.

A strong educational foundation will open the door to steady work in North Dakota's legal field. Choose your training carefully, get certified if you can, and build strong local connections.

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