Have you ever thought about working behind the scenes in the legal world—drafting documents, preparing cases, and supporting attorneys in court? If so, the Vincennes University Paralegal Program might be exactly what you’re looking for. Known for its affordable tuition, flexible schedules, and practical training, Vincennes University gives students the real-world skills needed to break into the legal field with confidence.
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Why Choose Vincennes University
Here’s why future paralegals choose Vincennes University:
- ABA Approved Program: Meets the rigorous standards of the American Bar Association.
- Affordable Tuition: One of the most budget-friendly options in Indiana.
- Small Class Sizes: More personal attention and mentoring opportunities.
- Hands-on Learning: Practical assignments that mirror real law office tasks.
- Career-Ready Focus: Internships and job placement assistance are key parts of the program.
Vincennes University Paralegal Program Overview
Vincennes University has a long tradition of preparing students for practical careers. The Paralegal Program is part of the College of Business and Public Service, blending legal theory with skills training.
Mission Statement:
To provide students with the academic foundation and practical skills necessary to become effective paralegals capable of working in a variety of legal settings.
Professors at Vincennes bring a mix of courtroom, law office, and corporate experience to their teaching, keeping the classroom connected to real-world legal work.
Vincennes University Paralegal Program Curriculum Details
| Course Name | Credit Hours | Course Description |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction to Paralegalism | 3 | Overview of the paralegal profession and ethical responsibilities. |
| Legal Research and Writing | 3 | Skills in legal analysis, writing, and resource navigation. |
| Civil Procedure | 3 | Study of court processes and litigation practices. |
| Contract Law | 3 | Examination of contract formation, enforcement, and defenses. |
| Criminal Law | 3 | Substantive criminal law and basic criminal procedure. |
| Property Law | 3 | Covers real property concepts, leases, deeds, and mortgages. |
| Legal Technology | 3 | Training in law office software and document management. |
| Internship | 3 | Fieldwork experience in a law office, court, or legal department. |
Admission Requirements
Getting into Vincennes University’s Paralegal Program is straightforward:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Submit a completed Vincennes University application.
- Provide official transcripts.
- No standardized test scores required unless seeking scholarships.
Deadlines are rolling, but early application is recommended for Fall semester admission.
Program Formats & Schedule
Vincennes offers flexibility to suit different student needs:
- Full-time: Complete the Associate of Science degree in two years.
- Part-time: Options for working adults needing evening or online classes.
- Online Courses: Selected legal courses available fully online.
Blended learning options let students balance education with work and family life.
Faculty Spotlight
The faculty at Vincennes are more than teachers—they’re mentors.
- Professor Amy Williams, JD: Focuses on civil litigation and brings her experience as a practicing trial attorney.
- Mr. Todd Reed: A retired corporate counsel who teaches business law and legal technology.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: Approximately 17:1, allowing close interaction and personalized support.
Facilities & Resources
Students at Vincennes have access to excellent resources:
- McCormick Science and Technology Building: Home to the legal studies department.
- Law Library Access: Extensive print and online legal resources.
- Westlaw and LexisNexis: Full database access for research and assignments.
Internship & Field Experience
Internships are a required and exciting part of the program.
Placement partners include:
- Local private law firms
- County and state courts
- Public defender and prosecutor’s offices
- Nonprofit organizations
Students complete a minimum of 120 hours in a supervised legal environment, gaining real-world experience.
Career Outcomes
Vincennes University prepares students for a strong start in the legal job market. The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that paralegal employment is on the rise.
Key outcomes:
- Job Placement Rate: Over 80% within six months of graduation.
- Average Starting Salary: Consistent with the national average listed on Paralegal Salary.
- Common Employers: Law firms, corporate legal departments, government offices.
People Also Ask
How long is the Vincennes University Paralegal Program?
Typically, the program takes two years to complete for full-time students.
Is the Vincennes University Paralegal Program ABA-approved?
Yes, the program is fully ABA approved.
Can I study the Vincennes University Paralegal Program online?
Selected courses are available online to offer greater flexibility.
Are internships included in the Vincennes University Paralegal Program?
Yes, an internship is a required part of the curriculum to ensure hands-on learning.
Tuition & Financial Information
Vincennes is committed to keeping education accessible and affordable.
- In-State Tuition: Around $5,000 per year.
- Out-of-State Tuition: Approximately $13,000 per year.
- Financial Aid: Includes federal aid, state grants, and institutional scholarships.
- Scholarships: Special scholarships available for students in the College of Business and Public Service.
Student Success Stories
Emily K., Law Firm Paralegal:
“Vincennes gave me the tools and confidence to jump right into a busy litigation firm after graduation. The hands-on assignments made a real difference.”
Tony S., Corporate Legal Assistant:
“The small classes and great professors helped me build the skills that employers actually look for.”
Vincennes University Paralegal Program: How to Apply
Application steps are simple:
- Complete the Vincennes University online application.
- Submit official transcripts.
- Apply for financial aid and scholarships.
- Meet with an academic advisor to plan your classes.
Contact Information
- Program Coordinator: Dr. Michael Jordan
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: (812) 888-8888
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the admission requirements for Vincennes University’s Paralegal Program?
A high school diploma or equivalent, application form, and official transcripts are required.
How much does it cost to attend the Vincennes University Paralegal Program?
In-state tuition is about $5,000 per year; out-of-state tuition is higher.
What makes Vincennes University’s Paralegal Program different from others?
Affordability, small class sizes, and a career-focused, ABA-approved curriculum set Vincennes apart.