SALEM, VA – February 2026 – American National University (ANU) proudly announces that both its Paralegal studies certificate and Paralegal associate degree programs have been officially reapproved by the American Bar Association (ABA) for the next seven years. This reaffirms the university’s commitment to excellence in legal education.
The reapproval by the ABA’s House of Delegates, acting on the recommendation of the Standing Committee on Paralegals, reflects the programs’ continued adherence to rigorous national standards in curriculum, instruction, and faculty quality. This milestone ensures that students completing the paralegal program will continue to graduate from a program recognized for meeting the highest professional benchmarks in paralegal education.
“Achieving ABA reapproval is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our faculty and staff, as well as the high-quality experience we provide our students,” says American National University president, Dr. Frank Longaker. “This recognition provides our graduates with a competitive edge as they begin or advance their careers in the legal field.”
The ABA approval makes American National University’s Paralegal programs part of a select group of programs nationwide that meet standards designed to prepare students for success as trained paralegals. Graduates of the program are equipped with practical skills in legal research, ethical practice, and substantive law, enabling them to support attorneys and legal teams effectively across a wide range of settings.
“I am incredibly proud to celebrate the Paralegal Programs’ ABA approval. This is a milestone that reflects the hard work, commitment, and excellence of our Paralegal Program community,” says Paralegal programs dean, Wendy Notz. “This achievement does not happen by chance. It happens because of people who believe in the mission of this university, who invest their time, passion, and expertise into building programs that change lives. ABA approval is more than recognition—it’s a promise to uphold the highest standards for our students and the profession.”
American National University’s paralegal programs integrate theoretical foundations with real-world applications, preparing students for roles in the legal field. The program’s online and flexible format allows working adults and busy learners to balance education with professional and personal commitments. Our students are trained by professionals that have real-world experience and knowledge about the career. For more information about either paralegal program, or how to apply, visit www.virginia.an.edu.
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