Updated August 13, 2025
If you want to become a paralegal in Vermont, the first step is choosing the right school. A good program will teach you the legal skills employers demand and prepare you to work in law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments. In Vermont, there are a few well-regarded paralegal education options.
Here's what you need to know before you enroll.
Vermont does not require paralegals to be licensed or certified at the state level. However, attorneys in the state will expect you to have solid legal training. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved paralegal program or hold a degree in paralegal studies.
The ABA approval ensures a school meets high standards in legal education. While certification is optional, earning a national paralegal credential after graduation can help you stand out.
Note: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, most paralegal and legal assistant jobs require an associate degree or higher, with strong research and writing skills 1.
There are only a few schools in Vermont offering formal paralegal training. Some options are campus-based, while others offer online or hybrid formats, which can be helpful if you need flexibility.
Champlain College offers both an Associate of Science in Paralegal Studies and a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies, as well as a Professional Certificate in Paralegal Studies for those who already have a degree.
CCV offers an Associate of Science in Legal Studies. While not exclusively a paralegal program, it provides a strong foundation for entry-level work in the legal field or transfer to a four-year paralegal degree.
UVM offers a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Legal Studies designed for students who already hold a bachelor's degree and want to enter the legal profession.
You can use this table to quickly compare Vermont's paralegal study routes:
| School | Program Type | ABA-Approved | Format | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Champlain College | Associate, Bachelor, Certificate | Yes | Campus / Some Online | New students or degree holders |
| CCV | Associate in Legal Studies | No | Hybrid | Transfer or entry-level legal studies |
| UVM | Post-Bacc Certificate | No | Online | Career changers and graduates |
A solid paralegal program in Vermont will teach you to:
Many programs also include internships or practicums to give you on-the-job training.
Here's a simple way to start:
While Vermont does not require certification, many paralegals choose to earn a professional credential to enhance their qualifications. Two major options are:
These credentials require passing an exam and meeting education or experience criteria.
ABA-approved programs meet established standards for academic quality. Employers may favor graduates from these programs because they know the training covers key areas like ethics, communication, and procedural law.
Tip: Not every good program is ABA-approved, but if you want to work outside Vermont someday, that approval could help you compete nationally.
If your goal is to start a paralegal career in Vermont, look closely at each school's curriculum, costs, and format. Champlain College is your top ABA-approved option in the state. If cost or location is a concern, CCV and UVM offer flexible programs that still prepare you for the legal workforce.
Here's what you should do next:
Starting with the right training sets you up for a successful legal support career in Vermont.
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