Delaware is a small state with a relatively large number of paralegals – about 1,620 as of May 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In fact, Delaware ranked third in the nation for its concentration of paralegal jobs during this time.
During this period, paralegals in Delaware earned an average salary of $51,870, or $24.94 per hour. Delaware paralegals with higher education and advanced industry credentials often have better opportunities and can easily reach a salary of about $80,950, or $38.92 per hour, which represents the top 10%.
Paralegal education and certification are considered assets by a wide range of employers, and those who put forth the extra effort to earn a degree or certificate often have a leg up in the job market.
Paralegal Certification
Although the Delaware Certified Paralegal Program was approved by the Delaware Paralegal Association in May 2005, there is no legislation requiring licensing or certification of paralegals in Delaware. Certification is entirely voluntary and is granted through the Delaware Paralegal Association.
Where to Earn Your Paralegal Certificate or Degree in Delaware
Paralegal Certificates
Wesley College
A Christian college associated with the United Methodist Church, Wesley College was founded in 1873. Located in Dover on a historic 50-acre campus, the college offers an 18-credit post-baccalaureate law and justice studies studies certificate program that provides solid knowledge of basic law for those already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field.
- Estimated Program Cost: $16,560 (based on 2013-2014 per-credit tuition)
- Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Format: On Campus
Sample required courses:
- Introduction to Law
- Legal Research & Writing I
- Civil Litigation
- Law of Business Organizations
Widener University Law Center
Widener University is a private four-year university with a main campus in Chester, Pennsylvania and several satellite campuses, including one in Wilmington, Delaware. The Legal Education Institute at the Widener University School of Law, located on the Wilmington campus, offers a 24-credit paralegal certificate program for students who have already earned at least 60 college credits. Students can select a general course of study or pursue a concentration in corporate law, criminal law, litigation, health law, real estate law, estate administration, intellectual property or elder law. Thanks to a close affiliation with the university’s the School of Law, students benefit from a vast law library.
- Estimated Program Cost: $10,466 (based on 2013-2014 full-program tuition)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED, 60 college credit hours
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Format: On campus or hybrid (on campus and online)
Sample required courses:
- Business Organizations
- Civil Practice
- Ethics and Paralegalism
- Evidence
- Computer Technology and the Law
Wilmington University
Wilmington University is a four-year, private university that offers a post-bachelor’s certificate in legal studies at its New Castle and Dover campuses. This program is for individuals who would like to gain legal knowledge to increase their career potential, or who are looking to make a career change. It is designed by paralegals and attorneys so that the curriculum gives students the skills needed to work in legal environments.
- Estimated Program Cost: $7,920 on the New Castle Campus; $6,816 on the Dover Campus (based on 2013-2014 per-credit tuition)
- Prerequisites: Bachelor’s degree
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Format: On campus or hybrid (on campus and online)
Sample required courses:
- Legal Ethics
- Legal Writing
- Civil Procedure
- Legal Research
- Introduction to Legal Studies
Paralegal Associate Degrees
Delaware Technical and Community College (DTCC)
Located in Georgetown, Delaware Technical and Community College is the only community college in the state. Its paralegal associate degree program provides students with the legal knowledge and professional skills needed to work in a range of positions in which legal skills are an asset. Students become competent in oral and written communication, learn reasoning and problem-solving skills, become proficient in technology used in the legal environment and learn both ethical and professional principles. Upon graduation, they can enter the workplace or continue their studies in a bachelor’s degree program.
Paralegal Bachelor’s Degrees
Wesley College
A four-year, private Christian college affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Wesley College was founded in 1873. Through its Bachelor of Science in law and justice studies, students learn both legal theory and practical skills, gain an understanding of ethical principles and become proficient in legal research using Lexis/Nexis and traditional methods. They also learn to draft legal documents, manage trial preparation and supply litigation support, as well as gain the skills needed to thrive in a diverse workplace.
- Estimated Program Cost: $90,560 (based on 2013-2014 annual tuition)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent; ACT or SAT scores; 2.3 GPA
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Format: On campus
Sample required courses:
- Property Law
- Legal Research Seminar
- The Law of Estate Administration, Probate & Trusts
- Domestic Relations
- Evidence
- Estimated Program Cost: $90,560 (based on 2013-2014 annual tuition)
Widener University Law Center
Through the Legal Education Institute at the Widener University School of Law in Dover, Widener University offers a Bachelor of Science in legal studies. Classes are offering during the day and in the evening, as well as online; however, students must complete at least 10 credits in a traditional classroom setting. Courses cover civil and criminal theory, legal research using both traditional means and modern technology, legal writing and procedure. Upon graduation, students receive not only a bachelor’s degree, but also a certificate of completion in one of several concentrations.
- Estimated Program Cost: $52,080 (based on 2013-2014 per-credit tuition)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Format: On campus or hybrid (on campus and online)
Wilmington University
Wilmington University‘s Bachelor of Science in legal studies provides a balanced education that emphasizes the knowledge, skills and values students need to demonstrate competence and apply ethical principles in the legal services industry. Courses stress communication skills, analytical thinking and reading comprehension, and students receive instruction in legal research and writing, legal concepts and terminology.
- Estimated Program Cost: $39,600 on the New Castle Campus; $34,080 on the Dover Campus (based on 2013-2014 per-credit tuition)
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED; SAT, ACT or Accuplacer scores
- ABA Approved: Yes
- Format: On campus or hybrid (on campus and online)
Sample required courses:
- Introduction to Legal Studies
- Business Organizations
- Introduction to Critical Thinking
- Contracts
- Civil Procedure
Professional Organizations
- The Delaware Paralegal Association offers a network of employment, educational and pro bono opportunities for its members. Members can take advantage of a job bank, mentoring opportunities and a variety of special events. Student members are welcome.
2020 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data and job market trends for paralegals reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2022.