Did you know that Las Vegas has one of the fastest-growing legal support job markets in the country? Whether you’re just starting out or looking to change careers, the Northwest Career College Paralegal Program could be your ticket to steady, meaningful work. This program isn’t just about books and tests — it’s about training smart, capable professionals who are ready to support attorneys and law offices right away.
At Northwest Career College (NCC), the focus is practical skills, strong support, and preparing you for real-world legal work. From flexible schedules to career placement support, NCC sets you up with everything you need to get your foot in the door.
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Why Choose Northwest Career College
Here’s why students choose NCC’s Paralegal Studies program:
- ABA-approved curriculum that meets top industry standards
- Classes offered online and on-campus to fit your life
- Externship opportunities with law firms and legal departments
- Career services that actually help you land a job
- Experienced instructors who’ve worked in the field
Northwest Career College Paralegal Program Overview
Northwest Career College, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, has built a strong reputation for its career-focused education. The Paralegal Studies program is part of the Legal Studies Department, which is driven by the goal of preparing students for immediate employment in legal settings.
Founded in 1997, NCC is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES) and recognized for programs that balance academic instruction with practical experience. The Paralegal program’s mission is to train students to become competent, ethical legal professionals who can work confidently in private law firms, corporate legal departments, or public agencies.
Curriculum Details
Here’s a snapshot of what you’ll study at NCC:
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 4 | Covers the structure of the legal system, key terms, and legal reasoning. |
| Legal Research & Writing I | 4 | Teaches how to find and use legal sources and write legal documents. |
| Legal Ethics | 3 | Examines professional conduct and ethical duties of paralegals. |
| Civil Litigation | 4 | Step-by-step instruction on the civil trial process from complaint to appeal. |
| Contracts | 3 | Explores the elements of a contract and issues like breach and remedies. |
| Criminal Law & Procedure | 3 | Introduction to criminal statutes, court procedures, and defense strategies. |
| Family Law | 3 | Focuses on divorce, custody, child support, and domestic violence cases. |
| Legal Technology | 2 | Covers software used in legal work such as case management and e-filing systems. |
| Paralegal Externship | 4 | Supervised fieldwork in a law office or legal setting. |
| Career Development for Paralegals | 2 | Prepares students for job interviews, resumes, and legal job searching. |
Northwest Career College Paralegal Program Admission Requirements
Getting into the Paralegal Program at NCC is straightforward:
- Must have a high school diploma or GED
- Complete an admissions interview
- Submit application and transcripts
- Take a Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam (basic skills test)
- Rolling admissions with classes starting year-round
You’ll also want to act early to secure your spot, especially if you’re looking for externship placements that fill up fast.
Program Formats & Schedule
Northwest Career College knows students have lives to juggle, so they offer:
- Day and evening classes for flexibility
- Online coursework combined with in-person labs and externship hours
- Hybrid schedule (2–3 days on campus; rest online)
- Program length: About 9 months full-time, or 15–18 months part-time
This flexibility means you can work part-time or even full-time while completing your program — a huge plus for working adults.
Faculty Spotlight
One of the things that sets NCC apart is its instructors. Classes are taught by practicing attorneys and certified paralegals with years of courtroom and legal office experience. That means you’re not just reading about legal theory — you’re learning how it works in practice.
Some faculty highlights:
- Small class sizes (often under 20 students)
- Accessible instructors with open office hours
- Hands-on teaching based on real legal case examples
Facilities & Resources
NCC offers students access to useful legal tools and resources, including:
- A dedicated law library with legal texts and reference materials
- Westlaw and LexisNexis access for online research
- Computer labs with legal software and case management tools
- Support services including tutoring, resume help, and job search coaching
Internship & Field Experience
One of the strongest parts of NCC’s program is the externship. You’ll be placed in a local law office, legal nonprofit, or corporate legal department to gain actual work experience.
What to expect:
- Typically 180–200 hours of real-world paralegal work
- Help with case preparation, filing, client communication
- Weekly check-ins with instructors to support your learning
These placements are arranged by NCC and often lead to job offers right after graduation.
Northwest Career College Paralegal Program Career Outcomes
Graduates of the NCC Paralegal Studies Program go on to work in:
- Law firms (civil, family, criminal)
- Government offices
- Corporate legal departments
- Nonprofit organizations
Most graduates find employment within 3–6 months of graduation. The average starting salary in the Las Vegas area is $45,000–$55,000, depending on employer and experience. You can learn more about salary trends here and explore the job market outlook for paralegals.
Many students also go on to pursue NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) credential for career advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the Northwest Career College paralegal program?
The program typically takes 9 months full-time or 15–18 months part-time to complete.
Is the Northwest Career College paralegal program ABA-approved?
Yes, NCC’s paralegal program is ABA-approved, which means it meets rigorous academic and ethical standards.
Can I study the Northwest Career College paralegal program online?
Yes — NCC offers a hybrid option where you can complete many courses online with some in-person components.
Are internships included in the Northwest Career College paralegal program?
Absolutely. The program includes a mandatory externship so you get hands-on legal experience before you graduate.
Tuition & Financial Information
The total tuition for the Paralegal program at NCC is around $15,000–$18,000, depending on your schedule and length of attendance.
They offer several financial aid options:
- Federal Pell Grants and Direct Loans
- Scholarships for qualifying students
- In-house payment plans with no interest
- Support with FAFSA applications and financial planning
To see if you qualify, it’s best to talk directly with their financial aid office.
Student Success Stories
Melissa T. – “I started NCC after being laid off during COVID. Within a year, I had a job offer at a small family law firm. The externship opened doors I never thought I’d walk through.”
James R. – “The instructors were so supportive. I worked full-time at a casino while going to school at night, and they always helped me stay on track. Now I’m working in the DA’s office.”
Dani C. – “The career services team was legit — they helped with my resume, mock interviews, and even got me a lead at the place where I ended up getting hired.”
Northwest Career College Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Here’s how to apply to the NCC Paralegal Program:
- Visit the official site and click on “Apply Now”
- Schedule an admissions meeting
- Complete the online application form
- Submit your transcripts or diploma
- Take the entrance exam and complete FAFSA if applying for aid
You’ll get help every step of the way, including reminders and documentation support.
Contact Information
Program Coordinator: Legal Studies Department
Phone: (702) 254-7577
Email: [email protected]
Website: northwestcareercollege.edu