Best Associate in Legal Studies Online Degree Programs & Research.com Ranking of Top Law Scholars

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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Choosing an associate in legal studies online degree program can be an ideal way to start a rewarding career in law while maintaining flexibility. These programs provide foundational knowledge for various roles in legal support, such as paralegals or legal assistants, and open pathways for further studies in the field. Alongside this, Research.com’s recently released 2024 ranking of top law and political science scholars offers insights into leading contributors to legal research, spotlighting influential figures and institutions in the field. This article covers the best associate programs for online legal studies, detailing their advantages, costs, and career outlook, while also discussing the latest global ranking of top law researchers to guide aspiring professionals and scholars alike.

The key findings for the 3rd edition of top law & political scientists ranking

• United States-affiliated scholars dominate the ranking with 300 profiles on the 2024 list.
• Moreover, 9 out of 10 scholars in the top 1% are from the United States.
• In our 2024 report, Harvard University has the highest number of scholars in the ranking. It has 19 scholars affiliated with the institution.
• Cass R. Sunstein from Harvard University, United States, is the top scholar in the ranking with a D-index of 131.
• Among the top 10 institutions leading in the field of law, eight are located in the United States, one from the UK, and one from Canada.
• The average D-index for the top 1% of scholars is 89.7, against an average of 34.74 for all scholars included in the ranking.

The full ranking for the 2024 list of the best law scholars can be found here:

BEST LAW SCHOLARS RANKING

Ranking Criteria for the Best Associate in Legal Studies Programs

To identify the best associate in legal studies online degree programs, several important criteria are used to evaluate and rank programs. These criteria include:

• Program Reputation: Programs with strong academic reputations, often affiliated with well-regarded institutions, typically receive higher rankings.
• Faculty Qualifications: Programs that employ experienced legal professionals as faculty members, offering insights from the field, are highly valued.
• Alumni Success: Graduate outcomes, such as employment rates and further educational advancement, play a significant role in ranking these programs.
• Tuition Costs: Affordable programs, especially those offering financial aid, scholarships, and other tuition support, are prioritized.
• Credit Transfer Options: The ability to transfer credits to a bachelor’s degree program can be crucial for students aiming for further education in legal studies.

By focusing on these criteria, students can choose programs that align with their career goals and financial capabilities.

Advantages of the Best Associate in Legal Studies Online Degree Programs

Online programs in legal studies have revolutionized access to education, making it feasible for working professionals and busy students to gain the knowledge necessary for a career in law. These programs focus on core legal topics such as contracts, criminal law, legal writing, and legal ethics, delivered through an online format. This flexibility enables students to learn at their own pace, with access to recorded lectures, online discussion forums, and virtual case studies that mirror the dynamics of the legal world.

Key Features of Leading Online Associate in Legal Studies Programs

To ensure quality, the best associate in legal studies online degree programs often include:

• Accredited Curriculums: Recognized by legal education standards, ensuring a degree respected by employers and academic institutions.
• Experienced Faculty: Many programs feature instructors with extensive legal backgrounds, bringing real-world insights to the virtual classroom.
• Career Services and Internship Opportunities: Leading programs often have partnerships with law firms or courts, allowing students to gain practical experience.

These programs focus on equipping students with the analytical and ethical grounding necessary for various entry-level legal professions or for transferring credits toward a bachelor's degree in legal studies.

Examples of Top Legal Studies Online Degree Programs

Among the best associate in legal studies online degree programs, several standout options include:

1. Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU): Known for its flexibility and affordability, SNHU offers an online Associate of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Legal Studies. The program provides foundational knowledge in criminal and civil law, ideal for aspiring paralegals and legal assistants.
2. Purdue University Global: This program offers an Associate of Applied Science in Legal Support and Services, focusing on hands-on skills like legal writing and case management. The degree is structured for direct entry into legal support roles or as a pathway to further education.
3. Liberty University: With a strong emphasis on Christian ethics and values, Liberty’s online Associate of Arts in Paralegal Studies covers essential legal skills while also preparing students for further legal studies.

Each of these programs is fully accredited, offers flexible online formats, and provides career-focused curricula tailored to support graduates entering the legal field or continuing to a bachelor’s degree.

Cost and Financial Aid Information

Cost is an essential factor when choosing a program, and the best associate in legal studies online degree programs often provide transparent and affordable tuition options. Typical tuition ranges from $150 to $500 per credit hour, though many institutions offer financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans. Several online schools, such as Purdue University Global and SNHU, also offer military tuition discounts and employer partnerships that can help reduce costs.

For students seeking financial assistance, many programs provide access to scholarships specifically for online learners or those studying legal support roles, as well as federal financial aid.

Flexible Scheduling and Student Support Services

One of the main advantages of the best associate in legal studies online degree programs is their flexible scheduling. These programs often offer asynchronous classes, meaning students can access lectures, assignments, and resources at any time. Additionally, most programs allow part-time or full-time study options, making it easier for students to balance their education with work or family obligations.

Student support services are also a major benefit, with many programs offering virtual tutoring, tech support, and career counseling. Dedicated advisors help students navigate the program, access resources, and plan their coursework for an optimal educational experience.

Pathways After an Associate in Legal Studies

Graduates of the best associate in legal studies online degree programs have diverse career paths. Many enter the workforce as paralegals or legal assistants, leveraging their training to support attorneys with case preparation, document drafting, and client communication. Others may choose to further their education, transitioning into bachelor’s programs or even pursuing law school.

The knowledge gained from an associate in legal studies also provides graduates with skills transferable to roles in compliance, human resources, and contract administration, making it an ideal program for those aiming for a versatile career.

Career and Salary Prospects

An associate degree in legal studies can open doors to a variety of career paths in the legal field. Common roles for graduates include legal assistant, paralegal, and legal support specialist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for paralegals and legal assistants is approximately $52,920, with job growth projected to increase by 10% through 2031, indicating a robust demand for these skills.

Additionally, students who choose to advance their education may pursue roles as compliance officers, contract administrators, or law enforcement officers, each with their own salary and advancement opportunities.

Alumni and Career Networking Opportunities

Many of the best associate in legal studies online degree programs provide access to a strong alumni network and networking events, enhancing graduates’ career prospects. These networks can offer mentorship opportunities, job placement assistance, and introductions to key players in the legal field. Schools like Purdue Global and Liberty University offer dedicated career services that extend beyond graduation, ensuring students can leverage their degree in the job market.

Student Testimonials and Success Stories

Students who have completed associate in legal studies online degree programs often share how the degree positively impacted their careers. For example, Liberty University graduates report that the legal research and writing skills gained during their studies directly contributed to their roles as paralegals in law firms. Another graduate from SNHU noted that the flexibility of the program allowed them to balance studies with a full-time job, providing them with immediate opportunities to apply their skills at work.

Conclusion

For aspiring legal professionals, the best associate in legal studies online degree programs offer an affordable, flexible, and comprehensive entry into the world of law. Whether aiming for a career as a paralegal, legal assistant, or pursuing further studies, an associate degree in legal studies provides a foundational understanding of the legal system, opening up a wide range of career opportunities. By choosing the right program, students can take a significant first step toward a rewarding career in the legal field.