Ever thought about working in the legal field but not spending years in law school? That’s exactly where the Grand View University Paralegal Program steps in. Designed to help you build real-world legal skills without the hefty time and financial commitment of becoming a lawyer, this program gets you in the courtroom, the office, or the corporate legal department faster than you’d expect.
Located in Des Moines, Iowa, Grand View’s paralegal program offers a focused, practical path into the legal workforce—with experienced instructors, a flexible class schedule, and career support baked in from day one.
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Why Choose Grand View University
Here are a few standout reasons students are picking Grand View University for their paralegal training:
- Hands-on learning through internships and legal research projects.
- Flexible class formats, including in-person and online options.
- Personalized attention from experienced legal professionals.
- Strong local connections with law firms, government agencies, and nonprofits.
- Career-focused curriculum aligned with employer needs and legal trends.
Grand View University Paralegal Program Overview
Grand View University has been serving students since 1896. Over the years, it has grown into a respected regional institution known for blending liberal arts education with practical career preparation.
The Paralegal Program is housed within the College of Social Sciences, supported by faculty who bring both academic credentials and real-world legal experience. The program’s mission is simple but powerful: to prepare students for successful, ethical, and productive careers as paralegals across a wide range of legal settings.
This program emphasizes critical thinking, legal ethics, and applied learning. Whether your goal is to work in criminal defense, corporate law, or public interest advocacy, Grand View offers a strong academic foundation paired with practical experience.
Grand View University Paralegal Program Curriculum Details
Here’s a look at what you can expect from the Grand View paralegal curriculum:
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 3 | Overview of legal systems, sources of law, and the roles of legal professionals. |
| Legal Research & Writing | 3 | Teaches how to locate legal sources and draft legal documents effectively. |
| Civil Litigation | 3 | Covers the stages of a lawsuit and role of a paralegal in civil procedure. |
| Criminal Law & Procedure | 3 | Focuses on substantive criminal law and procedural safeguards. |
| Business Law | 3 | Contracts, business organizations, and commercial law topics. |
| Ethics for Legal Professionals | 3 | Explores legal ethics, confidentiality, and professional responsibility. |
| Family Law | 3 | Marriage, divorce, child custody, and support legal frameworks. |
| Internship or Field Placement | 3-6 | On-the-job learning experience in a legal environment. |
Grand View University Paralegal Program Admission Requirements
Applying to the Grand View paralegal program is straightforward. Here’s what you need:
- High school diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 (some flexibility may apply for adult learners)
- Completed application through the Grand View official site
- Transcripts from previous schools or colleges
- Optional interview with the program coordinator for transfer or non-traditional students
Deadlines typically align with semester starts (fall, spring, summer), but applying early gives you better access to scholarships and class selections.
Program Formats & Schedule
Grand View understands that not every student can commit to a traditional schedule. That’s why the program is offered in multiple formats:
- Full-time: Ideal if you want to finish quickly (around 18-24 months).
- Part-time: Designed for working adults who need more flexibility.
- Online courses: Some classes can be taken remotely, especially gen eds and legal theory.
- Evening classes: Many legal courses are offered after 5 p.m. to accommodate work schedules.
Hybrid options allow you to mix in-person and online learning to fit your life.
Grand View University Faculty Spotlight
One thing students often mention is how accessible and helpful the faculty are. The paralegal program features professors who have worked as:
- Criminal defense attorneys
- Civil litigators
- Corporate counsel
- Legal aid professionals
With a student-to-faculty ratio around 13:1, you won’t be just another face in the crowd. Professors know your name and are invested in your success.
Dr. Karen Wilcox, for example, teaches Legal Research and Writing and brings 20+ years of experience in appellate law. Her mentorship has helped many students land jobs right out of school.
Facilities & Resources
You’ll have access to:
- A dedicated law library section with legal databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis
- Computer labs equipped for legal document drafting
- Mock courtroom used for simulation exercises
- Advising office for career and academic support
- Student legal organizations to build connections and grow your resume
Internship & Field Experience
Every student in the program completes an internship or field placement, usually during their final semester. Past placements have included:
- Polk County Attorney’s Office
- Legal Aid Society of Iowa
- Local law firms (civil and criminal)
- Corporate legal departments
Students typically work 10–20 hours per week during their internships. It’s a chance to apply what you’ve learned in class to actual cases and workplace situations. Many students receive job offers from their internship sites.
Career Outcomes
Paralegal grads from Grand View are well-prepared to enter the job market quickly. According to school reports, over 85% of graduates find employment within six months of completing the program.
Common job titles include:
- Litigation Paralegal
- Corporate Paralegal
- Legal Assistant
- Compliance Analyst
The average paralegal salary in Iowa ranges from $45,000 to $60,000, with higher earning potential in specialized legal fields.
Want to know more about the job market for paralegals? The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 4% growth in paralegal jobs through 2032—a steady, dependable career path.
People Also Ask
Can you become a paralegal without a degree?
Yes, but having a degree or certificate from a respected program like Grand View University’s paralegal program makes you far more competitive.
Is a paralegal certificate better than a degree?
It depends on your goals. A degree often provides more opportunities for advancement and specialization.
Grand View University Paralegal Program Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition at Grand View University for undergraduate programs is roughly $10,000 to $14,000 per semester before financial aid. But don’t let sticker shock scare you. The school offers:
- Federal and state financial aid
- Institutional scholarships based on GPA, need, or special criteria
- Payment plans to help you manage costs
- Work-study options for qualifying students
Students in the paralegal program are also encouraged to apply for external scholarships through NALA and other legal associations.
Student Success Stories
Erin M., a recent grad, now works as a family law paralegal in a Des Moines firm:
“The internship was what sealed the deal for me. I learned more in that one semester working with attorneys than I thought possible. Now I’m doing meaningful work every day.”
Jorge R., who came back to school in his 30s:
“I needed a career change. Grand View’s night classes let me keep my day job while training for a new path. I’m now in corporate compliance, and I love it.”
Grand View University Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Applying is simple. Here’s how to get started:
- Visit the Grand View admissions page.
- Create an account and fill out the online application.
- Submit transcripts from your high school and/or any college you attended.
- Apply for financial aid using the FAFSA.
- Contact the program advisor to discuss your goals and transfer credits (if any).
Admissions counselors are available year-round to guide you through the process.
Contact Information
Program Contact:
Office of Admissions
Grand View University
1200 Grandview Ave
Des Moines, IA 50316
Phone: (515) 263-2800
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.grandview.edu
FAQ
Are internships included in the Grand View University paralegal program?
Yes, an internship or field placement is a required part of the program.
Can I study the Grand View University paralegal program online?
Some courses are offered online, but the program includes in-person components for hands-on learning.