Have you ever found yourself watching a courtroom drama and thinking, “I could do that”—researching legal cases, prepping trial documents, and supporting attorneys on real legal matters? The Southeast Community College paralegal program can turn that curiosity into a real career path.
Designed for students who want to break into the legal field without spending years (and thousands) on law school, this program offers a focused, practical route into a growing profession.
Whether you’re switching careers or fresh out of high school, SCC’s paralegal program makes it possible to step confidently into the legal world.
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Why Choose Southeast Community College
Here’s what makes SCC stand out for future paralegals:
- ABA Approved: One of the few programs in Nebraska with ABA approval.
- Affordable Tuition: A smart investment with low in-state rates and strong financial aid options.
- Flexible Learning Options: Courses available in-person, online, and hybrid formats.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from attorneys and legal professionals who’ve worked in real legal settings.
- Strong Job Placement Support: Partnerships with law firms, government agencies, and nonprofits.
Southeast Community College Paralegal Program Overview
Southeast Community College’s paralegal program is part of the Business & Legal Studies Department. The program has earned a solid reputation in Nebraska’s legal community for preparing students who are job-ready the day they graduate.
The program’s mission is simple: give students the knowledge, tools, and experience they need to become effective, ethical, and skilled paralegals.
The faculty includes licensed attorneys and certified paralegals, many of whom bring years of courtroom and corporate legal experience. Classes are small, which means more time for hands-on learning and one-on-one support.
Curriculum Details
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll study in the Southeast Community College paralegal program:
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 3 | Overview of U.S. legal system and paralegal role. |
| Legal Research and Writing I | 3 | Basics of legal writing, citations, and case law research. |
| Legal Research and Writing II | 3 | Advanced legal writing and application in court documents. |
| Civil Litigation | 3 | Pre-trial to post-trial litigation procedures. |
| Torts | 3 | Civil wrongs, personal injury, and liability. |
| Contracts | 3 | Enforceable agreements and contract law principles. |
| Criminal Law | 3 | Substantive and procedural criminal law. |
| Ethics for Paralegals | 2 | Legal ethics and professional responsibilities. |
| Family Law | 3 | Marriage, divorce, custody, and adoption laws. |
| Real Estate Law | 3 | Property rights, deeds, and real estate transactions. |
| Business Organizations | 3 | Corporations, LLCs, partnerships, and legal structures. |
| Internship/Practicum | 3–6 | Field placement in legal office. |
Admission Requirements
To apply to the Southeast Community College paralegal program, you’ll need:
- A high school diploma or GED.
- Completion of SCC’s general admissions application.
- Official transcripts from any prior colleges (if applicable).
- Placement test scores or ACT/SAT for math and English placement.
- Additional advising meeting with a program coordinator.
Deadlines: SCC accepts applications on a rolling basis, but it’s smart to apply early for your preferred semester start date.
Program Formats & Schedule
SCC understands that not all students can commit to a traditional full-time, in-person schedule. That’s why they offer multiple learning formats:
- Full-Time Day Program: Ideal for recent high school grads and those seeking a quick career start.
- Part-Time Evening Option: Perfect for working adults who need a flexible pace.
- Online/Hybrid Courses: Take select courses remotely to accommodate family or work obligations.
Classes are offered on a semester basis, and most students complete the program in 18 to 24 months.
Southeast Community College Faculty Spotlight
The paralegal program at SCC is led by instructors who’ve actually walked the walk. You’ll learn from:
- Nancy Wright, J.D. – Former prosecutor and practicing family law attorney.
- Mark Feldman, CP – Certified paralegal with over 20 years in civil litigation.
- Susan Gutierrez, J.D. – Adjunct professor and immigration attorney.
Student-to-faculty ratio stays low, typically 15:1, so you won’t be lost in the crowd.
Facilities & Resources
Students in the Southeast Community College paralegal program have access to:
- A dedicated law library with current legal texts and Nebraska case law.
- LexisNexis and Westlaw subscriptions for legal research.
- Writing and tutoring centers.
- Mock courtroom setups for trial simulations.
- Computer labs with legal software like Clio and Time Matters.
Internship & Field Experience
One of the most valuable parts of SCC’s program is the internship experience. You’ll complete 120+ hours in a real legal setting, such as:
- Law firms
- County and district courts
- Legal aid clinics
- Corporate legal departments
SCC has internship placement partnerships across southeast Nebraska. Many students receive job offers from their internship sites.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Southeast Community College paralegal program go on to work in:
- Private law firms (civil, criminal, family, real estate)
- Government offices (county attorneys, public defenders, courts)
- Corporate legal departments
- Nonprofits and advocacy groups
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegals earn a median annual wage of around $60,000 and the field is expected to grow faster than average over the next decade. SCC’s job placement rate is strong, thanks to close relationships with local employers.
You can also pursue NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) exam after graduating, which adds credibility to your resume.
SCC’s program program Tuition & Financial Information
SCC is known for its affordability. As of 2025:
- In-State Tuition: Approx. $110 per credit hour
- Out-of-State Tuition: Approx. $132 per credit hour
- Estimated Total Program Cost: $7,000–$9,000 (including books and fees)
Financial support includes:
- Pell Grants
- Nebraska Opportunity Grant
- SCC Foundation Scholarships
- Work-study programs
- Veteran’s benefits
Student Success Stories
Jessica M. (Class of 2022):
“I was working at a grocery store and wanted something more stable. SCC’s paralegal program gave me skills, confidence, and a job offer before graduation. Now I work for a family law firm in Lincoln.”
Tyrese H. (Class of 2023):
“I did my internship with the public defender’s office and learned so much. That turned into a full-time job. Best decision I ever made.”
SCC’s program program: How to Apply
- Visit Southeast Community College’s official admissions page.
- Complete the online application.
- Submit transcripts and test scores.
- Schedule a meeting with a program advisor.
- Apply for financial aid via FAFSA.
Contact Information
Program Coordinator: Nancy Wright, J.D.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (402) 437-2400
Program Page: Southeast Community College Paralegal Program
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the Southeast Community College paralegal program?
Most students complete the program in 18 to 24 months, depending on part-time or full-time enrollment.
Is the Southeast Community College paralegal program ABA-approved?
Yes, SCC’s program is ABA approved, which adds credibility and job market value.
Can I study the Southeast Community College paralegal program online?
Yes. SCC offers many courses in online or hybrid formats to help with schedule flexibility.