Did you know paralegals are among the fastest-growing professions in the legal field, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 4% job growth through 2032? That means now is a smart time to get serious about your legal career. If you’re considering where to begin, the MCC’s paralegal program might be exactly the opportunity you’re looking for.
Designed with flexibility, affordability, and job readiness in mind, this program is ideal for students who want to enter the legal field without spending four years in a university. Whether you’re fresh out of high school, changing careers, or returning to school after a break, MCC gives you practical legal skills, real-world internship experience, and a strong professional network.
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Why Choose Metropolitan Community College
Here’s why the Metropolitan Community College paralegal program stands out:
- ABA-approved, meaning the curriculum meets the gold standard in paralegal education. (ABA Approved)
- Affordable tuition with generous financial aid and scholarship options.
- Multiple campus locations and online course availability for busy students.
- Internships built into the curriculum, offering real experience before graduation.
- Strong connections with local law firms and courts for career placement.
MCC’s Paralegal Program Overview
The paralegal program is part of the Social Sciences & Business Division at Metropolitan Community College. MCC has been serving the greater Omaha, Nebraska community since 1974, offering practical, career-focused education.
The paralegal faculty includes licensed attorneys and experienced paralegals, all of whom bring real-world legal practice into the classroom. MCC’s mission is to prepare students with the skills and confidence to contribute immediately in legal environments.
Graduates earn an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) in Paralegal Studies, making them employment-ready or eligible for further study.
Curriculum Details
Here’s a breakdown of typical courses offered in the Metropolitan Community College paralegal program:
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Law | 4 | Basic overview of the U.S. legal system and courts. |
| Legal Research & Writing I | 4 | Teaches citation, legal memo writing, and research. |
| Torts | 4 | Covers civil wrongs, liability, and personal injury law. |
| Contracts | 4 | Understanding of legally binding agreements. |
| Civil Litigation | 4 | Procedures of court cases, from filing to resolution. |
| Ethics for Legal Professionals | 3 | Focus on ethical issues and professional responsibility. |
| Criminal Law & Procedure | 4 | Explores criminal offenses, arrest, and trial process. |
| Paralegal Internship | 4 | Supervised work experience in a legal setting. |
| Family Law | 4 | Covers divorce, custody, and family court matters. |
| Legal Technology | 3 | Introduction to legal databases and practice software. |
Admission Requirements
Getting started is straightforward. Here’s what you’ll need to apply:
- High school diploma or GED
- Completed MCC application form
- Placement test scores (ACT, SAT, or Accuplacer)
- Official transcripts from any other colleges
- Advising session with the Paralegal Program Coordinator
Deadlines for applications vary by quarter, so check the official MCC website for the most current information.
MCC’s Paralegal Program Formats & Schedule
Flexibility is key at MCC. You can complete the program in the following formats:
- Full-time day classes (ideal for traditional students)
- Part-time evening or weekend courses (great for working adults)
- Online and hybrid course options to help balance school and life
Most students finish the program in 2 years, though part-time pacing is available.
Faculty Spotlight
You won’t be learning from textbooks alone. MCC’s paralegal faculty includes:
- Adjunct professors who are practicing attorneys, giving you first-hand legal insights
- Instructors with decades of courtroom and law office experience
- Small class sizes with an average student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1
This means you get personal attention and mentoring from people who know the law and teach with real-life examples.
MCC’s Facilities & Resources
MCC’s Fort Omaha and South Omaha campuses house:
- A dedicated law library and research center
- Access to LexisNexis and Westlaw legal databases
- Mock courtroom facilities used for training and role-play exercises
Plus, paralegal students have access to writing labs, tutoring, and academic counseling.
Internship & Field Experience
Internships are not just encouraged—they’re required. Every student completes a for-credit paralegal internship before graduating.
Placement partners include:
- Local law firms (civil and criminal law)
- County and district court offices
- Government agencies (like the Public Defender or City Attorney’s Office)
These internships typically last one quarter and are supervised both by the employer and a faculty advisor.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Metropolitan Community College paralegal program enter the legal field with hands-on experience and a recognized degree. Here’s what you can expect:
- Starting salaries around $48,000 annually, depending on your specialization and location
- High employment rates thanks to MCC’s local legal partnerships
- Some alumni go on to law school or earn NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) credential (NALA Certification)
The job market for paralegals is expected to stay strong, especially in areas like litigation support, real estate law, and corporate compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long is the Metropolitan Community College paralegal program?
Most students complete the program in two years of full-time study.
Is the Metropolitan Community College paralegal program ABA-approved?
Yes, it’s approved by the American Bar Association, which ensures curriculum quality.
Can I study the Metropolitan Community College paralegal program online?
Yes, MCC offers online and hybrid course options for added flexibility.
What are the admission requirements for Metropolitan Community College’s paralegal program?
You’ll need a high school diploma or GED, test scores, transcripts, and a meeting with an academic advisor.
MCC’s Paralegal Program Tuition & Financial Information
MCC is known for being affordable. Here’s a rough idea:
- In-state tuition: Around $66 per credit hour
- Out-of-state tuition: About $132 per credit hour
- Total program cost: Roughly $7,000–$9,000 (depending on course load)
Financial aid options include:
- Federal Pell Grants
- Work-study programs
- MCC Foundation Scholarships
- Military/veteran benefits
Be sure to complete your FAFSA early to qualify for the most aid.
Student Success Stories
Jessica M., Class of 2022: “I started with no legal background and graduated with a job offer from my internship site. The MCC paralegal program helped me turn my interest in law into a full-time career.”
Luis R., Career Changer: “After 10 years in retail, I wanted a career with purpose. MCC’s evening classes made it possible for me to study while working. Now I work for a nonprofit law firm.”
MCC’s Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Applying is easy:
- Visit MCC’s website
- Complete the online application
- Submit transcripts and placement scores
- Schedule an advising session
- Register for orientation and classes
You can also call the admissions office at 531-622-2400 if you have questions.
Contact Information
Paralegal Program Coordinator:
Department of Social Sciences and Business
Metropolitan Community College
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 531-622-2400
Website: https://www.mccneb.edu