Is it a bad Idea to get a master's in paralegal studies?

Question

What master's degree would a paralegal get the most benefit out of? Would it be a good idea to get a masters in law and policy?

Answer 1

Kirashot has a point.  A paralegal degree would help you specialize in some particular area, but it doesn't sound useful otherwise.  Law & policy would NOT be like a paralegal--it would be analysis and writing, not direct legal work.  If you already have a paralegal degree, work for a few years and if you want to continue in legal practice, get a law degree and if you want policy, get a masters in that.  

Answer 2

Heck, if you're going to all that trouble, go to law school.

Answer 3

The only paralegal masters I've heard of is at George Washingon University.  If GW, go for it.  Law & Policy is a degree for nonprofit managers, organized activists and lobbyists.  

Paralegals often go on to law school, and most of them didn't plan it that way, it usually falls on their lap and take the opportunity while they can.  Other choices are the MPA, MPH, MS, and MBA since paralegals deal with admin/org/HR duties primarily.

  

If you want to move up, skip paralegal entirely and get the JD.  Don't babystep it with a certificate because law school doesn't require it whatsoever.  Register for the LSAT and send in the application.  Paralegal and attorney are apples to oranges. It is not an apprenticeship toward anything.  Paralegal is a separate trade & expertise in its own right, hence why a 'masters in paralegal studies' exists.  So early in the career stage for you, your choice is one or the other, not both.  Good luck!