Thinking about a legal career but don’t want to spend four years (or more) in school? Chattanooga State Community College offers a practical path into the legal world with its ABA-approved Paralegal Program. You’ll learn the hands-on skills that legal employers in Tennessee actually want—without the time or cost of a law degree.
The Chattanooga State Paralegal Program is designed for real people with real goals—whether that’s launching your first career, making a change, or building on experience. It’s affordable, respected, and focused on job readiness.
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Why Choose Chattanooga State Community College
- ABA-approved paralegal program with strong employer recognition (ABA Approved)
- Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships
- Flexible scheduling including evening and online courses
- Focus on practical skills that translate directly to legal work
- Close ties with Chattanooga’s courts, law firms, and government offices
Chattanooga State Paralegal Program Overview
Chattanooga State is a public, two-year college serving Southeast Tennessee. The Paralegal Studies Program falls under the Department of Business and Legal Studies and has earned ABA approval, which means it meets rigorous national standards.
The mission of the program is to prepare students to become ethical, skilled legal professionals who can work in a variety of settings, including private law firms, corporate legal departments, and public service agencies.
The program offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies and a Technical Certificate for students who already have a degree but want focused paralegal training.
Chattanooga State Paralegal Program Curriculum Details
Below is a breakdown of the required courses in the AAS program:
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 3 | Overview of legal systems, sources of law, and legal professions |
| Legal Research and Writing I | 3 | Fundamentals of legal writing and online research |
| Civil Litigation I | 3 | Introduction to trial preparation and court processes |
| Family Law | 3 | Legal principles related to marriage, divorce, and custody |
| Criminal Law and Procedure | 3 | Criminal statutes, constitutional rights, and court procedures |
| Legal Research and Writing II | 3 | Advanced document drafting including briefs and memoranda |
| Civil Litigation II | 3 | Discovery, motions, trial preparation, and appeals |
| Ethics for the Paralegal | 3 | Study of professional conduct, confidentiality, and unauthorized practice |
| Law Office Technology | 3 | Introduction to legal management software and tools |
| Paralegal Internship | 3 | Supervised work in a legal setting with structured assignments |
Electives include: Real Estate Law, Probate, Bankruptcy, Administrative Law.
Admission Requirements
Here’s what you’ll need to apply:
- High school diploma or GED
- Application to Chattanooga State Community College
- Placement testing in reading, writing, and math (if applicable)
- Academic transcripts from prior schools
- No separate program application for the AAS, but Technical Certificate students may need advisor approval
It’s best to apply early for advising and financial aid.
Chattanooga State Paralegal Program Formats & Schedule
The program is designed to fit around real life:
- Day and evening classes available
- Hybrid and some online options for general education and legal classes
- Internship schedules can be tailored around student availability
- Full-time students can finish in two years; part-time plans are also supported
This flexibility is a big draw for working adults and parents.
Faculty Spotlight
Chattanooga State’s Legal Studies instructors bring years of field experience:
- Most are practicing attorneys or have worked extensively as paralegals
- Strong focus on hands-on learning and practical case exercises
- Faculty help connect students to local internship and job opportunities
- Small class sizes mean individual attention and mentorship
Facilities & Resources
As a student, you’ll have access to a strong support system:
- Legal reference materials through the campus library system
- Research tools like LexisNexis and Westlaw
- Computer labs, writing centers, and online tutoring
- Career services including resume help and mock interviews
- Access to local and regional legal events, fairs, and workshops
Internship & Field Experience
The required Paralegal Internship is one of the best features of the program:
- Students work 100–120 hours in an actual legal office
- Sites include local law firms, DA offices, courts, and legal aid centers
- Internship duties may include drafting documents, managing case files, or prepping trial materials
- Many students receive job offers from their internship placements
Recent internship partners include:
- Hamilton County Courts
- Legal Aid of East Tennessee
- Local firms in civil litigation, family law, and real estate law
Chattanooga State Paralegal Program Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Chattanooga State Paralegal Program have gone on to work in:
- Law firms throughout Tennessee
- State and local government legal departments
- Corporate compliance and HR offices
- Legal support roles in healthcare and education institutions
Job titles include:
- Paralegal
- Legal Assistant
- Court Clerk
- Legal Researcher
With a growing need for legal support professionals, this program gives you the training to step confidently into a career. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegals earn a median salary around $60,000. More info at Paralegal Salary and Job Market for Paralegals.
Many graduates also pursue NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) credential to boost their resume.
Tuition & Financial Information
One of the most affordable paralegal options in the region:
- In-state tuition: Around $170 per credit hour
- Out-of-state tuition: Higher, but competitive for the quality
Financial aid options include:
- Pell Grants and student loans
- Tennessee Promise for recent high school grads
- Tennessee Reconnect for adult learners
- Department-specific scholarships and work-study jobs
Visit the financial aid office to explore options tailored to your needs.
Student Success Stories
Ashley M., 24: “Chatt State helped me turn my interest in law into a real career. I interned with Legal Aid and now work full-time in their family law unit.”
Derrick L., 35: “After years in retail, I needed a change. This program gave me marketable skills and the confidence to go after something better.”
Tonya B., 41: “As a mom going back to school, the support was huge. The professors were patient, flexible, and really helped me find my footing.”
Chattanooga State Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Here’s how to start your legal journey:
- Apply online at www.chattanoogastate.edu
- Submit transcripts and complete placement testing if required
- Meet with an advisor to map out your course schedule
- Register for classes and attend orientation
- Apply for financial aid and scholarships early
You can also contact the Legal Studies department directly for help planning your path.
Contact Information
Program Contact:
Legal Studies Department
Chattanooga State Community College
4501 Amnicola Hwy
Chattanooga, TN 37406
Phone: (423) 697-4400
Email: Through www.chattanoogastate.edu
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Chattanooga State Community College paralegal program ABA-approved?
Yes, it’s ABA Approved, which gives it strong credibility with employers.
How long is the Chattanooga State Community College paralegal program?
Full-time students usually complete the AAS in two years. The certificate can be completed faster.
Are internships included in the Chattanooga State Community College paralegal program?
Yes. Every student completes a supervised internship as part of the core curriculum.