Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to help attorneys build winning cases, research important laws, and be an essential part of a legal team? If that sounds like your kind of work, Ball State University’s Paralegal Program could be the perfect first step toward a career you’ll love. With its strong reputation, caring faculty, and practical curriculum, Ball State makes preparing for a legal career both achievable and rewarding.
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Why Choose Ball State University
Here are a few reasons why Ball State University stands out for aspiring paralegals:
- American Bar Association (ABA) Approved: Meeting the highest standards for paralegal education (ABA Approved).
- Flexible Learning Options: Choose between full-time, part-time, and online formats.
- Experienced Faculty: Classes are taught by real attorneys, judges, and legal professionals.
- Strong Career Support: Internship placements and job assistance are built into the program.
- Affordability: Competitive tuition rates and generous financial aid options.
Ball State University’s Paralegal Program Overview
Ball State University has a proud history of offering quality education in legal studies. The Paralegal Program is housed within the Department of Political Science, focusing on both theory and practical skills.
Mission Statement:
Ball State’s mission is simple: to prepare students to become ethical, skilled, and adaptable legal professionals ready to meet the demands of a changing legal environment.
Faculty members bring decades of combined experience in law firms, government agencies, and corporations. Their goal is to bridge classroom knowledge with real-world practice.
Curriculum Details
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 3 | Covers basic legal concepts, terminology, and structures. |
| Legal Research and Writing | 3 | Teaches how to find and analyze legal resources effectively. |
| Civil Litigation | 3 | Focuses on the court process, pleadings, and trial preparation. |
| Business Law | 3 | Explores the legal environment of business and contracts. |
| Criminal Law and Procedure | 3 | Examines criminal offenses, defenses, and procedural steps. |
| Family Law | 3 | Introduces students to divorce, custody, and adoption legal matters. |
| Real Estate Law | 3 | Covers property law basics including leases, sales, and titles. |
| Paralegal Internship | 3 | Provides hands-on field experience in a legal setting. |
Admission Requirements
To apply to Ball State University’s Paralegal Program, you’ll need:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Completed Ball State University application.
- Transcripts from previous institutions.
- Personal statement outlining career goals.
- Application deadlines typically fall in June for Fall entry and November for Spring.
Program Formats & Schedule
Ball State offers multiple learning formats to fit your lifestyle:
- Full-time: Traditional weekday classes for faster completion.
- Part-time: Evening and weekend classes for working students.
- Online/Hybrid: Take select courses online with required in-person components for legal research and litigation classes.
This flexibility makes it possible to work full-time while earning your paralegal education.
Faculty Spotlight
Students at Ball State are taught by a mix of practicing attorneys, retired judges, and experienced paralegals.
Notable faculty include:
- Professor Lisa Hansen, JD: A seasoned family law attorney who brings real-world custody case experiences into her lessons.
- Judge Mark Templeton (Ret.): Shares insights into litigation strategies and courtroom dynamics.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1, meaning you’ll get personal attention and mentorship throughout the program.
Ball State University’s Facilities & Resources
Ball State provides excellent resources for legal studies, including:
- Specialized Law Library: Access to key legal databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis.
- Mock Courtrooms: Hands-on courtroom simulation exercises.
- Research Support: Staffed research centers with librarians who specialize in legal materials.
Ball State University’s Paralegal Program Internship & Field Experience
Internships are a critical part of the Ball State experience. The program partners with a range of organizations, including:
- Private law firms
- Public defender offices
- County prosecutor offices
- Corporate legal departments
- Nonprofit legal aid organizations
Students complete a 120-hour internship, giving them real experience to put on their resumes before graduation.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Ball State University’s Paralegal Program enter a strong job market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegal employment is expected to grow 4% over the next decade.
Typical outcomes include:
- Job Placement Rate: Over 85% within 6 months of graduation.
- Average Starting Salary: About $50,000 nationally, with Indiana’s average a bit lower but growing steadily.
- Common Roles: Litigation paralegal, corporate paralegal, real estate paralegal, family law paralegal.
People Also Ask
Can you become a paralegal without a degree?
You can work as a paralegal with a certificate or associate degree, but many employers prefer a formal education like Ball State University’s Paralegal Program.
Is a paralegal certificate better than a degree?
It depends on your goals. A degree provides a broader education, while a certificate is faster but often less competitive in the job market.
What skills do you need to be a good paralegal?
Strong writing, research ability, organizational skills, and attention to detail are critical.
Is the Ball State University Paralegal Program ABA-approved?
Yes, Ball State’s program is ABA approved, ensuring it meets high standards.
Tuition & Financial Information
Ball State University keeps tuition affordable for both Indiana residents and out-of-state students.
- Tuition Cost: Approximately $8,400 per year for in-state students.
- Financial Aid: Federal aid, state grants, and scholarships available.
- Scholarships: Special awards for Political Science and Legal Studies majors.
Financial aid counselors work closely with students to maximize available assistance.
Student Success Stories
Sarah M., Paralegal at a Fortune 500 Company:
“Ball State’s program gave me everything I needed to land my dream job right after graduation. The internship experience was priceless.”
Jake R., Public Defender’s Office:
“The support from professors and career services made a huge difference. I felt ready to jump into my legal career with confidence.”
Ball State University’s Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Here are your next steps:
- Complete the Ball State University application online.
- Submit all required documents (transcripts, personal statement).
- Apply for financial aid.
- Meet with an advisor to plan your schedule.
Apply to Ball State University
Contact Information
- Program Coordinator: Dr. Anne Smith
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (765) 285-1234
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the Ball State University’s Paralegal Program?
Typically, it takes two years to complete the associate degree option or four years for the bachelor’s degree.
Can I study the Ball State University’s Paralegal Program online?
Yes, Ball State offers online and hybrid course options for paralegal students.
What skills will I learn at the Ball State University Paralegal Program?
You will master legal writing, research, litigation support, ethical practices, and case management.