Wharton County Junior College's Paralegal Studies program offers a two-year associate of applied science degree for students interested in assisting attorneys in a variety of public and private legal settings. Pictured is Dr. Erma Hart, Program Director of WCJC's Paralegal Studies program.
WHARTON, TEXAS – Have an interest in the legal system? Then Wharton County Junior College’s Paralegal Studies program is the place for you.
Housed at WCJC’s Richmond campus, the program offers a two-year associate of applied science degree for students interested in assisting attorneys in a variety of public and private legal settings. Graduates find employment in law offices, governmental departments, district attorney’s offices and as freelance paralegals.
“The WCJC Paralegal Studies program is a great start for students interested in the law or seeking to eventually attend law school,” said Dr. Erma Hart, Program Director of WCJC’s Paralegal Studies program.
Courses include immigration law, family law, torts and personal injury, contracts, wills and civil litigation. Students learn the ins and outs of legal research, legal document drafting and office technology.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of paralegals and legal assistants is projected to grow by four percent from 2022 to 2032. The median annual salary for paralegals and legal assistants is more than $60,000.
WCJC’s program is one of only 13 in the state to be American Bar Association approved. Hart has served as program director since 2007. She is a licensed attorney in the state of Texas and formerly practiced criminal and family law.
Classes are currently offered at WCJC’s Richmond campus and on-line.
For more information, visit the college’s website at www.wcjc.edu or contact Hart at harte@wcjc.edu. Registration for the fall semester is now under way, with classes beginning on Aug. 26.
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