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For students considering a career supporting attorneys, managing legal cases, and playing a key role behind the scenes in law firms or corporate legal departments, South Plains College’s Paralegal Studies Certificate offers focused legal education.
This equips students with the essential skills employers want, including legal research, document drafting, and case preparation.
About the School
South Plains College (SPC) is a public community college based in Levelland, Texas, serving students across West Texas and beyond!
SPC offers a range of academic and career-oriented programs, including certificates and associate degrees, with multiple campus locations and some virtual class options.
Program Structure & Curriculum
The Paralegal Studies Certificate gives students a solid foundation in legal principles and law office practice.
The curriculum teaches both substantive law and practical skills, such as:
- Introduction to Paralegal Studies
- Legal research and writing
- Civil litigation and federal civil procedure
- Legal terminology, court systems, and office procedures
Typically, the program takes 12 months, and students must complete 24 semester hours.
First Semester
- LGLA 1313 – Introduction to Paralegal Studies
- LGLA 1342 – Federal Civil Litigation
- LGLA 1303 – Legal Research
- LGLA Elective** Credits / Units: 3
Total Semester Hours: 12 hours
Second Semester
- LGLA 1305 – Legal Writing
- LGLA 1344 – Texas Civil Litigation
- LGLA 2307 – Law Office Management
- LGLA 2341 – Evidence
Total Semester Hours: 12
Delivery Modes & Scheduling
South Plains College offers the Paralegal Studies Certificate Program mainly in a campus-based format, with classes centered on the Levelland campus.
Some course options may include flexible scheduling, depending on semester offerings, but fully online delivery isn’t guaranteed for the Paralegal Studies Certificate.
Students typically follow a semester schedule aligned with SPC’s academic calendar, with fall and spring terms the primary intake periods.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Focused legal coursework that presents students with practical skills. | A certificate alone may not qualify students for national paralegal certification without extra experience/education. |
| Shorter time to finish than a full associate degree. | Limited or no online delivery for certificate coursework. |
| Good regional reputation and community college affordability. | Smaller program with fewer elective options than larger schools. |
| Taught by experienced faculty in a community college setting. | Less comprehensive than a full AAS degree. |
How to Apply / Next Steps
- Explore the program: Visit South Plains College’s official Paralegal Studies page/catalog.
- Plan the schedule: Decide which semester to start and register for classes.
- Apply to SPC: Complete the online admission application.
- Meet with an advisor: Connect with a Paralegal program advisor.
- Financial aid & tuition: Complete the FAFSA and explore scholarship/payment options.
| South Plains College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Location | 1401 South College Avenue Levelland, TX, 79336 |
| Website | https://www.southplainscollege.edu/ |
| Phone | 806-894-9611 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | 1 Year |
| Student Rating | 80 / 100 based on 2 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete the Paralegal Studies Certificate program entirely online?
No.
However, South Plains College does offer online career training through ed2go (including a Certified Paralegal program), but the specific Paralegal Certificate at SPC is based on in-person core legal coursework.
For online options, consult the general online training portal to determine which Certificate Program courses are offered online or in-person.
Will this certificate qualify me for national paralegal certification?
Not automatically.
Students who earn only the certificate might need additional education (such as an associate degree) or qualifying work experience to take certifications, such as the Certified Paralegal exam.
Is financial aid available for the Paralegal Studies Certificate program?
Yes.
Financial aid is available through South Plains College.
Be sure to complete the FAFSA and speak with the SPC financial aid office to explore scholarships, grants, or payment plans.
I believe this is the best option for me. A one-year program for paralegal course was really ideal. There would be a lot of opportunities ahead and I can’t wait to start. What’s even more surprising is the availability of financial aid for a year of this program.
Seeing what South Plains College offers made me rethink community college as just a stepping stone it feels like a real launching point for a paralegal career. The clear focus on legal skills and support for students stood out.