Ever wonder if there’s a way to launch a meaningful legal career without spending years (and a fortune) in law school? That’s where the Salt Lake Community College Paralegal Program steps in. Whether you’re pivoting careers, returning to school, or fresh out of high school, SLCC’s program is structured to give you the real-world legal training you need — fast, affordable, and effective.
With a strong reputation in the legal community and an emphasis on practical skills, SLCC prepares students for actual legal work — drafting documents, organizing case files, and supporting attorneys across many legal specialties.
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Why Choose Salt Lake Community College
- ABA Approved – This ABA approved program meets the highest national standards.
- Affordable Tuition – SLCC offers one of the most cost-effective pathways to a legal career in Utah.
- Evening, Online & Hybrid Options – Flexible formats for working adults.
- Excellent Job Placement – Strong ties with local law firms and courts.
- Reputation in the Field – SLCC grads are known and respected in Utah’s legal circles.
Salt Lake Community College Paralegal Program Overview
Salt Lake Community College is Utah’s largest two-year institution and has long been a trusted name in practical, career-focused education. The Paralegal Studies program is housed under the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, and is built with working professionals in mind.
SLCC’s mission is to prepare students for immediate employment while also laying a foundation for continued academic or legal study. The paralegal program was established in the early 1990s and continues to evolve with industry standards.
Curriculum Details
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 3 | Covers the legal system, ethics, and the role of paralegals. |
| Legal Research & Writing I | 3 | Teaches students to use legal databases and draft legal memos. |
| Legal Research & Writing II | 3 | Focuses on persuasive writing and legal citation formats. |
| Civil Litigation | 3 | Examines court procedures, pleadings, and trial preparation. |
| Family Law | 3 | Covers divorce, custody, support, and adoption cases. |
| Criminal Law | 3 | Provides foundational understanding of criminal offenses and procedures. |
| Torts | 3 | Focuses on personal injury law and negligence. |
| Contracts | 3 | Studies the elements and enforcement of contracts. |
| Real Estate Law | 3 | Legal aspects of property, transactions, and land use. |
| Wills, Trusts, & Estates | 3 | Covers estate planning and probate procedures. |
| Paralegal Internship | 3 | Supervised legal work experience in a real law office. |
| Legal Technology | 3 | Teaches case management software and e-discovery tools. |
Salt Lake Community College Paralegal Program Admission Requirements
To enter the SLCC Paralegal Program, students need to:
- Have a high school diploma or GED.
- Submit an SLCC admission application.
- Provide placement test scores or college transcripts.
- Complete introductory English courses (ENGL 1010 or equivalent).
- Submit additional documents such as a personal statement (for internship eligibility).
Deadlines vary by semester, but it’s best to apply at least two months before the start of your intended term.
Program Formats & Schedule
SLCC offers flexible course formats to meet student needs:
- Full-Time: Complete the degree in as little as two years.
- Part-Time: Ideal for working professionals, evening and weekend classes available.
- Online Courses: Some courses are offered entirely online.
- Hybrid Options: Mix of in-person and online learning.
Classes are offered in fall, spring, and summer semesters, giving students flexibility to start anytime.
Faculty Spotlight
The program boasts instructors with actual legal field experience, many of whom are practicing attorneys or long-time paralegals themselves. Professors like David B. Hamilton, J.D., and Lisa Torres, CLA, bring decades of courtroom and document drafting experience into the classroom.
The student-to-faculty ratio stays low, allowing for personalized instruction and mentorship — something that’s hard to find at larger institutions.
Facilities & Resources
Students enrolled in SLCC’s paralegal program gain access to:
- A fully-equipped Law Library with Westlaw and LexisNexis access.
- Dedicated legal labs for research and document preparation.
- SLCC Career Services to assist with resume building and job placement.
- Access to student legal organizations for networking and support.
Internship & Field Experience
One of the most valuable components of the SLCC Paralegal Program is the internship requirement. Students are placed in local law firms, government agencies, or corporate legal departments where they:
- Draft legal correspondence and court filings.
- Assist with discovery and trial prep.
- Attend hearings and depositions (as allowed).
- Learn case and document management systems.
Internship sites have included the Utah Legal Services, Salt Lake City Prosecutor’s Office, and firms like Snow Christensen & Martineau.
Salt Lake Community College Paralegal Program Career Outcomes
SLCC paralegal graduates are employed across the legal spectrum:
- Law Firms (civil, family, corporate)
- Government Agencies
- Real Estate Offices
- Financial Institutions
Average starting salaries range from $42,000 to $55,000, with higher pay for those with prior experience or additional credentials. For a deeper dive, see Paralegal Salary.
Employment prospects are solid. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegal employment is expected to grow steadily through 2032. SLCC’s close relationship with local employers helps graduates connect with real opportunities right away. You can also check the Job Market for Paralegals for a 2025 outlook.
Tuition & Financial Information
Here’s a basic breakdown:
- In-state Tuition: ~$3,800 per year
- Out-of-state Tuition: ~$12,000 per year
- Books & Materials: ~$1,000 annually
Financial aid is available through FAFSA, and SLCC offers several scholarships specific to legal studies. There are also grants, work-study programs, and NALA affiliated resources for continuing education like NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP).
Student Success Stories
Marissa K., a 2022 graduate, now works as a paralegal at a mid-size firm in downtown Salt Lake. “I was working full-time and raising two kids. SLCC’s evening classes and online flexibility made it possible.”
Jordan M., who landed an internship with the Utah State Courts, shares, “The internship showed me what I wanted to focus on — family law. I felt ready to contribute on day one.”
These stories reflect a broader trend: SLCC paralegal grads hit the ground running.
Salt Lake Community College Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Follow these steps:
- Complete the online application at SLCC’s official website.
- Submit high school transcripts or proof of GED.
- Take placement tests or submit ACT/SAT scores.
- Attend New Student Orientation.
- Meet with a Program Advisor to plan your courses.
Applications are accepted year-round, but spots for internships fill up quickly — apply early.
Contact Information
Program Coordinator:
Sarah DeLong, JD
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (801) 957-4073
Website: www.slcc.edu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) paralegal program?
Most students complete the SLCC Paralegal Program in two years if attending full-time. Part-time options are available for those with busy schedules.
Is the Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) paralegal program ABA-approved?
Yes, SLCC’s paralegal program is ABA approved, which means it meets national education standards set by the American Bar Association.
Can I study the Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) paralegal program online?
Yes, many courses are available online or in hybrid formats. SLCC designed the program with flexibility for working students.