Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program: How to Apply in 7 Steps

The Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program is a powerhouse in North Florida, offering an Associate in Science (A.S.) in Legal Studies and an Advanced Technical Certificate (A.T.C.) for those with a bachelor’s degree. What makes it special? It’s the only ABA-approved program in the region, meaning it meets the rigorous standards set by the American Bar Association. The program blends legal theory with hands-on skills like drafting documents and conducting research, preparing you for real-world paralegal work. Its reputation for strong internships and career placement makes it a go-to for aspiring legal professionals.

Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program Overview

Since its launch, the Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program has been housed within the School of Business, Professional Studies, and Public Safety. It’s been ABA-approved since 1997 for the A.S. degree and 2015 for the A.T.C., a testament to its quality. The program’s mission is clear: train students to excel as paralegals or legal assistants through a curriculum emphasizing legal research, ethics, and practical skills. The faculty, led by experienced attorneys and paralegals, bring real-world insights to the classroom, ensuring you’re not just learning theory but how to apply it.

Curriculum Details

The A.S. in Legal Studies is a 64-credit program covering core areas like tort law, family law, real estate law, criminal law, and probate. Key courses include:

• Introduction to Legal Studies: Your foundation in the U.S. legal system.
• Legal Research and Writing I & II: Learn to navigate Westlaw and draft professional documents.
• Tort Law: Understand personal injury cases, a common paralegal task.
• Technology in the Law Office: Master software used in modern firms.

Unique offerings include Simulated Law Office Experience, a capstone for those who can’t do a traditional internship, and specialized electives like Wills, Trusts, and Estates. The program takes about two years full-time, with a clear sequence starting with foundational courses and ending with an internship or capstone. The A.T.C., at 22 credits, is tailored for bachelor’s degree holders and focuses on advanced paralegal skills, preparing you for NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) exam.

Admission Requirements

To join the Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program, you need a high school diploma or GED. The A.S. program follows FSCJ’s open admissions policy, so no specific GPA or test scores are required—just apply to the college first. For the A.T.C., you must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. Applications are accepted year-round, but check FSCJ’s website for priority deadlines (typically March for fall, October for spring). You’ll need to submit transcripts and complete an online application. The selection process is straightforward, focusing on your eligibility and commitment to the program.

Program Formats & Schedule

The Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program offers flexibility for busy students. The A.S. program can be pursued full-time or part-time, with evening and online/hybrid options to fit working schedules. Most students complete the A.S. in two years full-time or three years part-time. The A.T.C. takes about one year. Classes are offered at FSCJ’s North Campus and online, with start dates in fall, spring, and summer. Whether you’re juggling a job or family, the program’s mix of in-person and virtual learning makes it accessible.

Faculty Spotlight

The faculty at the Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program are practicing attorneys and seasoned paralegals, bringing years of courtroom and law office experience. Many are members of the Florida Bar, with expertise in areas like family law and litigation. Their real-world knowledge means you’re learning from people who’ve drafted the same documents you’ll handle on the job. The student-to-faculty ratio is low, ensuring personalized attention—critical when you’re tackling complex legal research or ethical dilemmas.

Facilities & Resources

FSCJ’s North Campus, home to the Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program, offers access to a robust law library with legal databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis. Students can practice in simulated law office settings, honing skills like document preparation and case management. Academic advising, tutoring, and career services are tailored for paralegal students, ensuring you have support from day one. The campus’s Student Life Centers also provide study spaces and networking opportunities through clubs like the Paralegal Association of Florida.

Internship & Field Experience

A standout feature of the Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program is its internship requirement. A.S. students complete a 180-hour internship in their final term, working in law firms, courthouses, or corporate legal departments. FSCJ partners with local organizations, including private practices and government agencies, to place students. Can’t do an internship? The Simulated Law Office Experience course replicates real-world tasks. Past students have landed placements at prestigious firms, gaining hands-on experience that often leads to job offers.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program are well-positioned in Florida’s thriving job market for paralegals. Florida ranks second in the U.S. for paralegal employment, with 38,000 projected openings in coming years. Alumni work in private law firms, government agencies, and corporate legal departments, with starting salaries averaging $64,576 in Florida as of February 2024. FSCJ’s career services offer resume workshops, job fairs, and networking events, helping students land roles like legal assistant or law clerk.

Tuition & Financial Information

The A.S. program costs about $6,584 for Florida residents ($25,553 for out-of-state students), based on 64 credits. The A.T.C. is approximately $2,300 for residents. Books and supplies add roughly $900. FSCJ offers payment plans, financial aid, and program-specific scholarships like the Paralegal Association of Florida scholarship. Check FSCJ’s financial aid page for details. Compared to other ABA-approved programs, FSCJ is affordable, delivering high value for the cost.

Student Success Stories

Take Sarah, a 2020 A.S. graduate who now works as a paralegal at a Jacksonville law firm. She credits her internship for landing her job, saying, “The program taught me how to think like a lawyer without the law school debt.” Or Michael, an A.T.C. alum who passed NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) exam and now manages case files for a corporate legal team. These stories highlight the program’s focus on practical training and career readiness. Alumni often praise the faculty’s mentorship and the program’s real-world focus.

How to Apply

Ready to join the Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program? Follow these 7 steps:

1. Apply to FSCJ: Complete the online application at FSCJ’s admissions page.
2. Submit Transcripts: Send your high school/GED (or bachelor’s for A.T.C.) transcripts.
3. Meet with an Advisor: Schedule a meeting to discuss program requirements.
4. Complete Prerequisites: Ensure you meet any general education requirements for the A.S.
5. Apply for Financial Aid: Submit the FAFSA and explore scholarships.
6. Register for Classes: Once accepted, enroll through FSCJ’s student portal.
7. Attend Orientation: Get familiar with the program and campus resources.

Need help? Contact an advisor at (904) 646-2300 or visit FSCJ’s website. After applying, expect a response within 2-4 weeks.

Contact Information

Reach out to the Florida State College at Jacksonville Paralegal Program at:

• Program Coordinator: Email [email protected] or call (904) 646-2300.
• Campus Address: 3939 Roosevelt Boulevard, Jacksonville, FL 32205.
• Campus Visits: Schedule a tour via FSCJ’s website.
• Request Info: Fill out the form on FSCJ’s program page.

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