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If you want to start a paralegal career in North Carolina, the right education is the first step. Employers look for people who know the law, have solid research skills, and can manage complex legal paperwork. In this guide, we'll go over the top accredited paralegal schools in North Carolina so you can choose a program that matches your goals.
Why Accreditation Matters
Quality training is important in legal work. An accredited program has been reviewed by outside agencies to make sure it meets professional standards.
Most employers in North Carolina prefer graduates from ABA-approved (American Bar Association) or regionally accredited schools.
Choosing an accredited school also ensures your credits can transfer if you decide to pursue a bachelor's degree later.
North Carolina does not require paralegals to hold a license, but completing an approved education program is strongly recommended for better job opportunities.
What to Look for in a Paralegal Program
Before you pick a school, compare these key factors:
- Accreditation - ABA approval is the gold standard. Regional accreditation is also important.
- Program length - Most certificates take 1 year; associate degrees take about 2 years.
- Internship opportunities - Real-world experience is valuable when applying for jobs.
- Specialization options - Some programs focus on corporate, criminal, or family law.
- Class format - Choose from in-person, online, or hybrid schedules.
Here's a quick look at typical program lengths:
| Program Type | Duration | Credential Earned |
| Certificate | 9-12 months | Paralegal Certificate |
| Associate Degree | 2 years | A.A.S. in Paralegal Studies |
| Bachelor's Degree* | 4 years | B.A./B.S. in Legal Studies |
* Offered at some universities, not commonly at trade-level schools.
Best Paralegal Schools in North Carolina
Below are some of the best options in the state, with strong reputations and accredited programs.
1. Guilford Technical Community College (GTCC) - Jamestown, NC
- Program: Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Paralegal Technology
- Accreditation: ABA-approved
- Highlights: Offers both day and evening classes. Covers litigation, legal research, ethics, and technology used in law offices. Includes internship requirement.
- Format: Campus-based with some online options.
- More info: GTCC Paralegal Technology
2. Central Piedmont Community College (CPCC) - Charlotte, NC
- Program: A.A.S. in Paralegal Technology and post-baccalaureate diploma
- Accreditation: ABA-approved
- Highlights: Known for flexible scheduling and strong local law firm connections. Offers internships and job placement assistance.
- Format: In-person and online hybrid options.
- More info: CPCC Paralegal Programs
- Program: A.A.S. in Paralegal Technology
- Accreditation: ABA-approved
- Highlights: Smaller class sizes and personalized instruction. Program includes advanced legal technology training.
- Format: Primarily campus-based.
- More info: Carteret CC Paralegal Program
4. Durham Technical Community College - Durham, NC
- Program: A.A.S. and post-baccalaureate certificate in Paralegal Technology
- Accreditation: ABA-approved
- Highlights: Offers career services and networking events with local law professionals. Cooperative education available for hands-on experience.
- More info: Durham Tech Paralegal
5. Fayetteville Technical Community College (FTCC) - Fayetteville, NC
- Program: A.A.S. and certificate options in Paralegal Technology
- Accreditation: ABA-approved
- Highlights: Affordable tuition and a strong curriculum in both substantive and procedural law. Internship required.
- More info: FTCC Paralegal Technology
Steps to Enroll in a North Carolina Paralegal Program
- Check admission requirements. Most associate degree programs need a high school diploma or GED.
- Apply to the school. Follow the college's application process and submit transcripts.
- Meet with an advisor. They can help you plan your classes and meet graduation requirements.
- Complete financial aid forms. Use the FAFSA to apply for grants or scholarships.
- Register for classes. Select required general education and core legal courses.
- Complete internship hours. Most ABA-approved programs require supervised work in a legal setting.
- Graduate and enter the workforce. Consider voluntary certification for an extra credential.
Tip: In North Carolina, you can seek voluntary recognition through the North Carolina Certified Paralegal (NCCP) program offered by the North Carolina State Bar.
Career Path After Graduation
Once you finish school, you can work in:
- Law firms
- Corporate legal departments
- Government agencies
- Real estate companies
- Non-profit organizations
Many North Carolina paralegals start in law firms and later move into corporate or government work as they gain experience.
Summary and Next Steps
Starting a paralegal career means picking the right school and getting solid training. Focus on ABA-approved programs for the best job prospects.
Compare schools based on location, cost, format, and internship options.
After graduation, consider voluntary certification to stand out in the job market.
Here's what you should do next:
- Review the schools listed here.
- Visit their websites and request program details.
- Compare tuition, schedules, and internship opportunities.
- Apply to the one that fits your goals and timeline.
Strong training will give you the skills and confidence to work in the legal field. The sooner you start, the sooner you can put that knowledge to work.
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