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Jumpstart Your Paralegal Career in Sunny Phoenix, AZ
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April 09, 2007
by Eneida Alcalde
Local Education Columnist
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Phoenix, Arizona is the fifth-most populated city in the U.S., with about 1.4 million inhabitants recorded last year. It's thriving due to its diversified economy, which includes business sectors in telecommunications and tourism. And all of those people, and all of that industry, mean a particularly robust legal system.
What does this mean for you? Studying to be a paralegal in Phoenix is a smart career move as well as a nice lifestyle shift. If you want the weather on your lunch breaks to be sunny and warm, Phoenix is the place to jumpstart your paralegal career.
Paralegal Education
There are a variety of paralegal education programs offered at Phoenix community colleges, universities, and business schools. Earning your paralegal degree can take anywhere from a few months to four years, depending on your prior education and experience.
If you don't have a college degree, your best bet is to go for an associate's degree program in paralegal studies. If you already have a college degree, you may opt for a fast-track program that will certify you as a paralegal. Some schools offer bachelor's and master's degrees in paralegal studies and, on occasion, some employers provide on-the-job training by hiring college graduates with no legal career background.
A wise option for your paralegal career is a degree program that offers job placement services and internships where you'll gain real-world experience. Paralegals work in a variety of settings like:
- Law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment of paralegals will increase by 27 percent or more through 2014. So finding a career with your paralegal education shouldn't be difficult.
By beginning your paralegal career with a Phoenix education program, you'll experience a lively city that's near many outdoor recreational opportunities such as sailing, climbing, and the wondrous Grand Canyon. It's a great place to earn a top-notch paralegal education.
Sources
About the Author
Eneida P. Alcalde works in Washington, DC and has written several grants, educational manuals, and promotional material for development organizations. Eneida holds a B.A. in international politics and Spanish from The Pennsylvania State University.
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