Did you know that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts paralegal jobs will grow faster than the average for all occupations through 2032? That means there’s real opportunity out there. If you’re ready to start a meaningful career in law without spending years in law school, the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program could be your perfect starting point. This program is designed to give you real-world skills, strong academic support, and flexible options to fit your busy life.
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Why Choose Enterprise State Community College
Here are a few reasons why the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program stands out:
- Affordable Tuition: Get a respected education without the heavy student loan burden.
- Small Class Sizes: Enjoy personal attention and mentoring from experienced legal professionals.
- Flexible Learning Options: Choose between on-campus and online courses to match your schedule.
- Strong Local Connections: Internships and networking opportunities with area law firms and agencies.
- Career-Ready Focus: Practical training that prepares you for the real demands of a paralegal career.
Enterprise State Community College Paralegal Program Overview
The paralegal program at Enterprise State Community College falls under the Department of Business and Legal Studies. With a strong mission to prepare students for the practical demands of legal work, the department blends classroom knowledge with hands-on training.
Faculty members are practicing attorneys, paralegals, and legal scholars, bringing decades of real-world experience to your classes. Their goal is to help students graduate with the skills, ethics, and confidence needed to support attorneys, corporations, and government agencies effectively.
Curriculum Details
Here’s a look at what you’ll study in the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program:
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 3 | Overview of the American legal system, roles of legal professionals. |
| Legal Research and Writing I | 3 | Foundations in legal writing, research tools, and case analysis. |
| Civil Litigation | 3 | Steps of civil lawsuits, including pleadings, discovery, and trial preparation. |
| Ethics for Paralegals | 3 | Ethical obligations and standards in the legal profession. |
| Family Law | 3 | Marriage, divorce, child custody, and related issues. |
| Criminal Law and Procedure | 3 | Criminal statutes, procedural rules, and the role of paralegals. |
| Contract Law | 3 | Principles of contract creation, enforcement, and litigation. |
| Internship or Capstone Project | 3 | Real-world experience or comprehensive project to demonstrate learned skills. |
Note: Additional electives available in areas like Real Estate Law, Probate Law, and Business Organizations.
Admission Requirements
To apply for the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program, you’ll need:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Completed Application for Admission
- Official Transcripts from previous schools
- Placement Test Scores (if applicable)
- Application Deadlines: Rolling admissions, but early application is encouraged for best course selection.
Program Formats & Schedule
Flexibility is a big plus here. You can attend:
- Full-time (finish faster, around 2 years)
- Part-time (better if you’re working)
- Online courses available for many classes
- Hybrid option that mixes online and on-campus learning
This setup makes it easier to balance school, work, and family life.
Faculty Spotlight
You’ll be learning from professionals like:
- Professor Laura Jenkins, J.D. – Specializes in Civil Litigation and Ethics.
- Professor Mark Holloway, Paralegal Specialist – Expert in Legal Research and Writing.
The student-to-faculty ratio is small, meaning you’ll actually know your instructors and get real feedback — not just form letters.
Facilities & Resources
As a paralegal student, you’ll have access to:
- On-campus Law Library with online legal databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis.
- Computer labs with legal research software.
- Mock Courtrooms for trial practice sessions.
- Career Center that offers resume help, mock interviews, and job leads.
Internship & Field Experience
Field experience is a key part of the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program. Students can:
- Intern at local law firms, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations.
- Complete a Capstone Project if working professionals prefer not to intern.
- Work under attorney supervision to apply what they’ve learned.
These internships often lead to job offers before you even graduate!
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the program can expect solid job prospects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegals earn a median salary around $59,200 nationally, and local demand remains strong.
Career opportunities include:
- Law Firms
- Corporate Legal Departments
- Government Agencies
- Nonprofit Organizations
- Real Estate Companies
For more detailed salary information, check out this resource: Paralegal Salary.
People Also Ask
Can you become a paralegal without a degree?
Yes, but earning a degree or certificate from a respected program like the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program gives you a major advantage in the job market.
Is a paralegal certificate better than a degree?
It depends on your career goals. A degree often leads to broader opportunities, but a certificate can be quicker if you’re already in the legal field.
How long is the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program?
Most students complete the program in about two years with full-time enrollment.
Is the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program ABA-approved?
Enterprise State Community College is not currently ABA-approved, but it still offers a rigorous education that meets local employment needs. For a list of ABA Approved programs, check here.
Tuition & Financial Information
- Tuition Rate: Around $150 per credit hour for in-state students.
- Financial Aid: Available through FAFSA.
- Scholarships: Merit-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships are offered.
You can also check for additional financial support options through NALA.
Student Success Stories
Jessica T., 2023 graduate, now works full-time as a litigation paralegal at a respected law firm in Montgomery. “Enterprise gave me the confidence and skills I needed to hit the ground running,” she says.
Derrick W., a part-time student and single dad, balanced school and work to earn his paralegal degree and now works for a corporate legal department in Birmingham.
How to Apply
Ready to take the first step? Here’s how:
- Complete the online application on the Enterprise State Community College official website.
- Submit transcripts from high school and/or previous colleges.
- Apply for financial aid by submitting your FAFSA.
- Meet with an admissions counselor to discuss class scheduling.
Questions? Reach out to the Paralegal Program Coordinator for guidance.
Contact Information
Program Coordinator:
- Name: To be confirmed by ESCC
- Email: [email protected] (example — please verify on their official site)
- Phone: (334) 347-2623
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I study the Enterprise State Community College paralegal program online?
Yes! Many classes are offered fully online, allowing greater flexibility for working adults.
What type of degree will I earn from Enterprise State Community College’s paralegal program?
You’ll earn an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Paralegal Studies.
Does Enterprise State Community College offer financial aid for paralegal students?
Yes, you can apply for federal financial aid and school-specific scholarships.