The most common types of Paralegal degree programs are:

Associate degree: These programs are offered at two-year community colleges, some four-year colleges and universities, and some business schools. Upon successful completion of 60-70 semester units, a student earns an associate degree.

Bachelor degree: Paralegal education is also offered by four-year colleges and universities which have a paralegal studies major, minor, or concentration within a major. These programs are usually about 120 - 130 semester units, including 30-60 semester units in paralegal and related courses.

Master's degree: A few colleges and universities that offer undergraduate paralegal degree programs are now offering Masters degree in paralegal studies.

The duties of paralegals also differ widely based on the type of organization in which they are employed. Paralegals who work for corporations often assist attorneys with employee contracts, shareholder agreements, stock-option plans, and employee benefit plans. They also may help prepare and file annual financial reports, maintain corporate minute books and resolutions, and secure loans for the corporation.

Paralegals are mostly employed in law firms, corporate legal departments and various government offices. Paralegals are projected to grow faster than average, as law offices try to reduce costs by assigning them tasks formerly carried out by lawyers. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Paralegals held about 200,000 jobs in year 2002.