About National Paralegal College
Students pay an average net price of $15,524 after financial aid, regardless of income level since tuition remains flat at $7,995 for everyone. Graduates typically earn $42,269 ten years after starting, which creates a challenging debt-to-income scenario given the median debt load of $24,853. Monthly loan payments average $263, and only 28.95% of borrowers successfully repay their loans on schedule. The employment rate reaches 88%, but the financial math requires careful consideration.
The student body is overwhelmingly female at 84.79%, reflecting the paralegal profession's demographics. However, persistence proves difficult with just 16.67% of students returning for their second year. The 31:1 student-faculty ratio suggests limited individual attention in the online format. Only 33.34% of students complete their degree within four years, making this program better suited for highly self-motivated learners who can navigate independent study successfully.
Academics & Faculty
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 31:1
- Graduation Rate (4-year)
- 33.3%
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 31.9%
- Retention Rate
- 16.7%
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $42,269
Popular Programs by Earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings |
|---|---|---|
| Non-Professional General Legal Studies (Undergraduate). | Bachelor | $35,701 |
| Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies. | Bachelor | $32,467 |
| Legal Support Services. | Associate | $29,443 |
Campus Life
Classes operate on a flexible schedule system that differs from typical semester calendars. The student-to-faculty ratio of 31:1 means limited one-on-one interaction during virtual office hours. Students typically juggle coursework around work and family commitments, as many are career changers seeking paralegal certification. Discussion boards and group projects replace hallway conversations and study groups.
Weekend "social life" happens through online forums and virtual study sessions. Phoenix's year-round sunshine and desert climate don't affect students scattered nationwide, though Arizona-based students enjoy 300+ sunny days annually. The retention rate of 16.67% suggests many students struggle with the self-discipline required for online learning. Those who persist often connect through LinkedIn groups and professional paralegal associations rather than campus traditions.
- Setting
- City-Large
- Calendar System
- Other
- Founded
- 2002
Climate & Weather
- January Avg
- 46°–67°F
- July Avg
- 84°–106°F
- Annual Precipitation
- 7.2"
- Annual Snowfall
- 0.0"
Student Demographics
- Men
- 15.2%
- Women
- 84.8%
- White
- 26.3%
- Black
- 5.7%
- Hispanic
- 9.0%
- Asian
- 1.8%
- In-State Students
- 6.5%
- Pell Grant Recipients
- 39.7%
Location
- Address
- Phoenix, Arizona 85014-1561
After College
Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education
- Median Earnings (10 years)
- $42,269
- Median Earnings (5 years)
- $43,842
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 29.0%
- Monthly Loan Payment
- $263/mo
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $24,853
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the admission requirements at National Paralegal College?
National Paralegal College operates as an online career college with open enrollment policies typical of for-profit institutions. With an enrollment of just 388 students, the school focuses on accessibility rather than selectivity. The college primarily serves working adults seeking paralegal certification and legal studies training.
How much does National Paralegal College cost after financial aid?
Students pay an average net price of $15,524 annually, with tuition set at $7,995 regardless of residency status. About 40% of students receive financial aid, though only 6% receive institutional grants averaging $5,193. The school keeps costs relatively low compared to traditional four-year institutions.
What is the student-faculty ratio at National Paralegal College?
The student-faculty ratio stands at 31:1, which is higher than most traditional colleges but common for online programs. The college specializes in paralegal education and legal studies through distance learning. Only 17% of students return for their second year, reflecting the challenges many working adults face in online programs.
What are the graduation rates at National Paralegal College?
The four-year graduation rate is 33%, while the six-year rate reaches only 32%. These completion rates are typical for career-focused online colleges serving working adults. Graduates earn a median of $42,269 ten years after enrollment, which aligns with paralegal industry standards.
Where do most National Paralegal College students come from?
Despite being located in Phoenix, only 7% of students are Arizona residents, highlighting the school's national online reach. Women make up 85% of the student body, reflecting the gender composition typical in paralegal programs. The student body is 26% White, 9% Hispanic, and 6% Black.
Does National Paralegal College help students find employment?
The college reports an 88% employment rate for graduates, which is strong for career-focused programs. However, graduates carry a median debt of $24,853 with monthly loan payments of $263. Only 29% of borrowers successfully repay their loans, indicating financial challenges despite high employment rates.
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