Have you ever thought about becoming a vital part of the legal world without spending years in law school? The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program might be your perfect starting point. Designed to get you job-ready fast, CCRI’s paralegal program combines top-notch legal education with practical skills training. Plus, with flexible options and strong job prospects, it’s a smart move if you want to jump into a legal career without taking on huge debt.
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Why Choose Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI)
Here’s why CCRI stands out for paralegal studies:
- Affordable Tuition: Save thousands compared to private institutions.
- ABA Approved: Meet the highest standards set by the American Bar Association.
- Flexible Learning Options: Study part-time, full-time, or even take some online classes.
- Strong Job Placement Support: Career services and internship connections.
- Experienced Faculty: Learn from real-world legal professionals.
Program Overview
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program is part of CCRI’s Business, Legal Studies, and Professional Programs Department. With a mission to prepare highly skilled, ethical paralegals, CCRI offers a curriculum grounded in practical application.
Since its inception, the program has built a solid reputation, maintaining its ABA Approved status and keeping class sizes small for a more personal experience. Faculty members are practicing attorneys and seasoned paralegals, bringing current real-world experience into the classroom.
Curriculum Details
Here’s a look at the core courses you’ll take:
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 3 | Basics of the American legal system, court structures, and procedures. |
| Legal Research and Writing | 3 | Techniques for researching statutes, case law, and writing legal documents. |
| Civil Litigation | 3 | Overview of civil court processes and preparation of pleadings. |
| Real Estate Law | 3 | Fundamentals of property law and real estate transactions. |
| Family Law | 3 | Legal principles of marriage, divorce, custody, and support. |
| Business Organizations | 3 | Structures and legal aspects of corporations, partnerships, and LLCs. |
| Ethics and Professional Responsibility | 3 | Rules and ethical considerations for paralegals. |
| Internship | 3 | Hands-on work experience in a legal setting. |
Students must also complete elective courses in specialized areas like criminal law, immigration law, and estate planning.
Admission Requirements
Getting started with the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program is straightforward:
- Prerequisites: High school diploma or GED.
- Placement Tests: May be required for English and Math.
- Application: Complete the CCRI general admissions application.
- Transcripts: Submit official high school and/or college transcripts.
- Deadlines: Rolling admissions, but early application is encouraged for best course selection.
Program Formats & Schedule
CCRI knows flexibility matters. You can choose the path that fits your life:
- Full-Time: Finish faster by taking a full course load each semester.
- Part-Time: Spread out classes while balancing work and family.
- Hybrid Options: Some classes are available partially online, perfect for busy students.
- Evening Classes: Great for working adults.
Faculty Spotlight
The heart of the program is its faculty. Most instructors are practicing attorneys or experienced paralegals.
- Professor Jennifer Lawton: Specializes in civil litigation and family law.
- Attorney Michael Greene: Teaches real estate and business law, bringing courtroom experience.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Small classes (typically under 20 students) mean you get personalized attention.
Facilities & Resources
When you join CCRI, you’ll have access to:
- Extensive Law Library: Research databases, case reporters, and legal journals.
- Westlaw Access: Industry-standard legal research tool.
- Student Legal Association: Networking events, guest speakers, and resume workshops.
- Career Services: Help with job searches, internships, and interviews.
Internship & Field Experience
Internships are a required part of the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program, giving students hands-on legal experience before graduation.
Students have interned at:
- Local Law Firms
- Government Offices
- Nonprofit Legal Aid Groups
- Corporate Legal Departments
You’ll get the chance to apply your skills in real-world settings, build your resume, and make valuable connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the CCRI Paralegal Program are well-prepared for the Job Market for Paralegals.
- Employment Rate: Over 80% placement within six months of graduation.
- Salary Expectations: Rhode Island paralegals earn an average of $55,000 annually. (Check out more Paralegal Salary details.)
- Common Employers: Law firms, insurance companies, healthcare providers, government agencies.
Many alumni also choose to pursue NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) credential for even better job opportunities.
Tuition & Financial Information
- In-State Tuition: About $220 per credit hour.
- Out-of-State Tuition: Higher but still affordable compared to private colleges.
- Financial Aid: Pell Grants, scholarships, and CCRI-specific awards are available.
- Scholarships: Especially for legal studies students—ask the Financial Aid office.
CCRI’s affordability is a huge plus if you want quality education without heavy debt.
Student Success Stories
Kara M., Class of 2022: “The CCRI paralegal program helped me land a full-time position at a top Providence law firm. The internship made all the difference!”
Luis G., Class of 2021: “As a father of two, the night classes and hybrid options at CCRI let me earn my degree while still working full-time.”
Amanda T., Class of 2023: “Taking classes with attorneys who practice what they teach made the material feel real. I’m now working in corporate law and loving it!”
How to Apply
Ready to start your legal career? Here’s what to do:
- Apply Online: Complete the CCRI Admissions application.
- Submit Transcripts: Send in your high school and/or prior college records.
- Placement Testing: Schedule English and Math tests if needed.
- Meet an Advisor: Plan your course schedule.
- Register for Classes: Choose your first semester classes and get started!
Contact Information
- Program Coordinator: Professor Jennifer Lawton
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (401) 825-1000
- Campus: Warwick, Lincoln, Providence, Newport (multiple campuses)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program?
Most students complete the CCRI paralegal program in two years if attending full-time. Part-time students usually finish in three to four years.
Is the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program ABA-approved?
Yes, the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program proudly maintains ABA Approval, ensuring a high-quality education.
How much does it cost to attend the Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program?
The Community College of Rhode Island (CCRI) Paralegal Program is one of the most affordable options, with tuition around $220 per credit for in-state students.