The Greenville Technical College Paralegal Program gives you a practical, affordable way to start a respected legal career in less time than you might think. Whether you’re aiming to work in a law office, corporate legal department, or government agency, this program lays down a solid foundation to become a paralegal in South Carolina—and beyond.
Backed by experienced faculty, real-world internships, and strong local partnerships, it’s one of the most hands-on, career-ready programs in the region.
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Why Choose Greenville Technical College
Here’s why students are turning to GTC to launch their legal careers:
- ABA-Approved: One of the few ABA Approved paralegal programs in South Carolina.
- Strong Job Placement: Many grads land jobs right after internships—thanks to close ties with local law firms and courts.
- Flexible Formats: Study full-time, part-time, or even online for certain courses.
- Affordable Tuition: Way more budget-friendly than private colleges or universities.
- Real-World Experience: Internship opportunities are built into the program structure.
Greenville Technical College Paralegal Program Overview
Greenville Technical College (GTC) has been offering workforce-ready education for decades, with its Paralegal program gaining a solid reputation for quality and practical training.
Housed within the Business and Public Service Division, the Paralegal program operates under the guidance of licensed attorneys and seasoned paralegals. Their goal? To prep students not just for a job—but for long-term success in legal support roles.
The program holds ABA Approval—a big deal for employers who often require or prefer graduates from approved schools. GTC’s mission is simple: deliver affordable, accessible, and career-focused education that aligns with real-world legal needs.
Curriculum Details
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll study in the Greenville Technical College Paralegal Program:
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law and Ethics | 3 | Covers legal systems, professional conduct, and the basics of U.S. law. |
| Legal Research and Writing I | 3 | Teaches how to locate legal sources and write legal memos. |
| Civil Litigation | 3 | Focuses on court procedures, pleadings, and litigation support duties. |
| Real Estate Law | 3 | Covers deeds, titles, closings, and other aspects of property law. |
| Family Law | 3 | Introduces legal concepts in marriage, divorce, child custody, and support. |
| Wills, Trusts, and Probate | 3 | Examines estate planning documents and probate court procedures. |
| Legal Research and Writing II | 3 | Builds on Level I with in-depth research and advanced legal writing assignments. |
| Criminal Law and Procedure | 3 | Discusses criminal statutes, rights of the accused, and trial procedures. |
| Computer Applications in Law | 3 | Introduces legal software like Westlaw and document management systems. |
| Paralegal Internship | 3–6 | On-the-job experience with legal professionals in real workplace settings. |
Electives and general education courses are required for degree completion.
Greenville Technical College Paralegal Program Admission Requirements
Getting into the program isn’t overly complicated, but you’ll need to hit a few milestones:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Apply to Greenville Technical College as a general student first.
- Meet Placement Scores or complete preparatory classes in English and Math.
- Submit a Paralegal Program Application after completing prerequisites.
- Attend an Info Session—often mandatory before formal admission.
Deadlines vary by term, so it’s smart to reach out to an advisor early.
Program Formats & Schedule
Life is busy—we get it. That’s why GTC offers multiple formats for its Paralegal studies:
- Full-Time: Complete the program in about two years.
- Part-Time: Ideal for working adults or parents—spread it out over 3–4 years.
- Evening Classes: Many legal courses are offered after 5:00 PM.
- Online Options: Some general education and select legal courses are available remotely, though not the entire program.
Because the program is ABA Approved, at least 10 credit hours of legal specialty classes must be taken in person.
Faculty Spotlight
The instructors here aren’t just academic—they’re working professionals with serious credentials.
- Susan Stokes, J.D. – A former prosecutor who now teaches criminal law and litigation.
- Karen O’Dell, CP – A certified paralegal with over 20 years in corporate law and compliance.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio – Typically around 15:1, which allows for personalized attention and mentorship.
Professors often bring in guest speakers—from local judges to paralegals in specialized fields—giving you a firsthand look at real career paths.
Facilities & Resources
You’ll have access to a range of resources designed to mirror actual legal work environments:
- Law Library with access to local and federal case law
- Westlaw and LexisNexis database subscriptions
- Legal Writing Lab offering peer and professor support
- Mock Courtroom for simulations and class activities
- Career Services that help with résumés, job fairs, and interview prep
Need to research a case? You won’t be stuck Googling it—these tools are the real deal.
Internship & Field Experience
One of the highlights of the GTC Paralegal Program is its required internship—and it’s not just busywork.
- Internships are 120–180 hours
- Usually completed during your final semester
- Placement Partners include:
- Law offices (family, criminal, real estate)
- State and municipal courts
- Corporate legal departments
- Nonprofits and advocacy groups
You’ll get your foot in the door, build connections, and often walk straight into a job afterward.
Career Outcomes
So where do GTC Paralegal grads end up?
- Law firms, handling case prep, client intake, and research
- Government agencies, supporting attorneys in public defense or prosecution
- Corporations, especially in HR or compliance departments
- Starting Salaries in South Carolina average $40,000–$50,000, with experienced paralegals earning $60K+
- Strong demand regionally—check out this look at the Job Market for Paralegals
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegal employment is expected to grow 4% through 2032.
People Also Ask
Can you become a paralegal without a degree?
Yes, but most law firms strongly prefer—or require—formal education like the Greenville Technical College paralegal program.
Is a paralegal certificate better than a degree?
A certificate is faster, but a degree (like GTC offers) offers broader training and better long-term job prospects.
Are internships included in the Greenville Technical College paralegal program?
Yes—internships are built into the curriculum and are required for graduation.
Can I work full-time while attending the Greenville Technical College paralegal program?
Many students do. With evening and part-time options, it’s definitely possible.
Greenville Technical College Paralegal Program Tuition & Financial Information
Greenville Tech is known for keeping college affordable:
- In-State Tuition: ~$5,000/year (based on 30 credit hours)
- Out-of-State Tuition: Higher, but financial aid may still apply
- Financial Aid: FAFSA eligible, including Pell Grants
- Scholarships: Offered through the Greenville Tech Foundation
- Work-Study Programs: Available for eligible students
You can also explore external scholarships for paralegal students, especially if you’re pursuing certification like NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP).
Student Success Stories
Maria R., Class of 2022
“I started at GTC while working part-time and raising two kids. The program changed my life—I landed a full-time job in family law right after graduation.”
Javon D., Class of 2021
“My internship turned into a job offer. I now work at the public defender’s office, and I’m thinking about law school down the road.”
Angela S., Class of 2023
“As a military spouse, I needed flexibility. GTC’s part-time program let me finish while moving between bases.”
Greenville Technical College Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Getting started is easy:
- Apply to Greenville Technical College via their official site.
- Submit transcripts and placement scores.
- Complete any required prerequisites (like intro English or Math).
- Fill out the Paralegal Program application (usually a separate form).
- Attend an info session—check the calendar for dates.
- Wait for acceptance and begin class registration.
Need help? Admissions advisors are super responsive and used to helping students who are balancing a lot.
Contact Information
Program Contact:
Department of Business and Public Service
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (864) 250-8000
Website: Greenville Technical College Paralegal Program
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the Greenville Technical College paralegal program?
It typically takes two years for full-time students to complete the program.
Is the Greenville Technical College paralegal program ABA-approved?
Yes, and that’s a major plus when applying for jobs.
What type of degree will I earn from Greenville Technical College’s paralegal program?
You’ll earn an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Paralegal Studies.