Have you ever thought about becoming the backbone of a legal team? If you’re looking for an affordable, flexible, and respected way to start a legal career, the Ivy Tech Community College Paralegal Program might be exactly what you need. Designed for working adults, career changers, and recent graduates alike, Ivy Tech offers a practical path into the legal field without piling on debt.
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Why Choose Ivy Tech Community College
- ABA Approved: Ivy Tech’s paralegal program is recognized by the American Bar Association.
- Affordability: Tuition is significantly lower than most four-year institutions.
- Flexible Scheduling: Offers part-time, full-time, online, and evening classes.
- Practical Experience: Strong internship opportunities with local law firms.
- Strong Employment Outcomes: Graduates have a solid track record of job placement in Indiana and beyond.
Ivy Tech Community College Paralegal Program Overview
Ivy Tech Community College, founded in 1963, is Indiana’s largest public postsecondary institution. Its Legal Studies Department oversees the Paralegal Program, with a mission to prepare ethical, competent, and job-ready paralegals.
Faculty are experienced attorneys and paralegals who bring real-world insights into every lecture. Classes are small, allowing students to get the mentorship they need to thrive.
Curriculum Details
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Paralegal Studies | 3 | Overview of the paralegal’s role in law practice. |
| Legal Research and Writing | 3 | Techniques for researching case law and drafting legal documents. |
| Civil Litigation | 3 | Fundamentals of pre-trial and trial procedures. |
| Contract Law | 3 | Principles of contract creation, enforcement, and litigation. |
| Family Law | 3 | Study of marriage, divorce, child custody, and support laws. |
| Real Estate Law | 3 | Covers property transactions, title searches, and closings. |
| Criminal Law and Procedure | 3 | Exploration of criminal statutes, defenses, and rights of the accused. |
| Internship | 3 | Hands-on work experience at a law firm, court, or legal department. |
Ivy Tech Community College Paralegal Program Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Completion of Ivy Tech’s general application
- Placement testing (or waiver with SAT/ACT scores)
- Submission of official transcripts
- Application deadline varies; check with the campus offering the paralegal program
Program Formats & Schedule
Ivy Tech offers multiple options to fit different lifestyles:
- Full-Time: Finish in as little as two years.
- Part-Time: Flexible pacing for those balancing work and study.
- Online Courses: Some legal classes are available online.
- Hybrid Options: Mix of in-person and online learning for maximum flexibility.
Faculty Spotlight
The Legal Studies faculty at Ivy Tech include practicing attorneys, judges, and certified paralegals. With a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 17:1, students enjoy personalized attention.
Highlights:
- Professor Jennifer Shaw, JD, who specializes in Family and Criminal Law.
- Adjunct Instructor Marcus Bell, CP, a NALA-certified paralegal with 15+ years of civil litigation experience.
Facilities & Resources
Students in the Ivy Tech Community College Paralegal Program have access to:
- Campus law libraries with up-to-date legal resources
- Westlaw and LexisNexis databases
- Dedicated paralegal student study lounges
- Computer labs with specialized legal software
Internship & Field Experience
Internships are a key part of Ivy Tech’s program. Students complete a minimum of 120 on-site hours, often leading directly to job offers. Partner organizations include:
- Local and regional law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies such as public defenders and prosecutors’ offices
Career workshops and job fairs are also offered to connect students with potential employers.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Ivy Tech’s Paralegal Program can expect:
- Strong employment prospects: Indiana has a growing need for trained paralegals (Job Market for Paralegals).
- Competitive salaries: Entry-level paralegals in Indiana earn around $45,000 annually, with experienced paralegals earning much more (Paralegal Salary).
- Diverse roles: Graduates find jobs in law firms, corporations, insurance companies, and government agencies.
People Also Ask
Can you become a paralegal without a degree?
While some entry-level positions are open to those with certificates, most employers prefer candidates with a paralegal degree from programs like Ivy Tech Community College’s.
Is a paralegal certificate better than a degree?
A degree often opens more doors than a certificate alone, offering broader education and greater career advancement potential.
How long is the Ivy Tech Community College paralegal program?
If you attend full-time, you can complete the program in two years.
Can I study the Ivy Tech Community College paralegal program online?
Yes, Ivy Tech offers some paralegal courses online and hybrid, making it easier for working students.
Ivy Tech Community College Paralegal Program Tuition & Financial Information
Ivy Tech’s tuition is among the lowest in the state:
- In-State Tuition: Approximately $150 per credit hour
- Out-of-State Tuition: Higher, but financial aid is available
- Financial Aid: Pell Grants, Stafford Loans, and scholarships
- Scholarships: Specialized awards for legal studies students
Visit Ivy Tech’s Financial Aid Office for more details.
Student Success Stories
Samantha R., Graduate 2023: “Ivy Tech helped me land a paralegal position at a major Indianapolis firm right after graduation. The internship made all the difference!”
Jose L., Graduate 2022: “Affordable, flexible, and taught by real professionals. I highly recommend Ivy Tech if you want a real-world legal education.”
Ivy Tech Community College Paralegal Program: How to Apply
- Submit Ivy Tech’s general admission application
- Complete placement testing (or provide test scores)
- Submit transcripts
- Attend an advising session
- Enroll in the paralegal program
Check Ivy Tech’s Official Site for current deadlines and more detailed instructions.
Contact Information
- Program Coordinator: Contact Legal Studies Department
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 1-888-IVY-LINE (1-888-489-5463)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Ivy Tech Community College paralegal program ABA-approved?
Yes, the program is fully approved by the American Bar Association.
What skills will I learn at the Ivy Tech Community College paralegal program?
You’ll learn legal research, case preparation, drafting legal documents, and understanding legal procedures.
When are the start dates for Ivy Tech Community College’s paralegal classes?
Classes typically start in August, January, and May. Check the academic calendar for exact dates.