Q: How do I get started?

A: If you have attended another college or university, provide copies of your official transcripts to the Student Services department at the Alexandria Campus. After your transcripts are evaluated, a counselor will let you know what courses will transfer from your previous college. Then contact a Paralegal Studies program advisor who will help plan your class schedule.

If this is your first college experience, simply apply online and contact a Paralegal Studies program advisor who will help plan your class schedule.

Q: Does NOVA offer a paralegal certificate?

A: After completing the program, you will earn an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree.

Q. What courses do I need to earn the AAS degree?

A. The courses are listed here: https://catalog.nvcc.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=11&poid=2595&returnto=1256

Q: Is there a limit to the number of courses NOVA will accept in transfer?

A: The transfer policy is here: https://catalog.nvcc.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=11&poid=2595&returnto=1256

Q: When are paralegal classes offered?

A: Classes are offered during the day and evening. They are also offered face-to-face, via Zoom, and online.

Q: Does it matter in which order I take classes?

A: Students must complete College Composition I (ENG 111) and Introduction to Law and the Paralegal (LGL 110) in the first semester. Students must follow the sequencing plan—100-level courses must be completed before 200-level courses. Also, Legal Research (LGL 125) must be taken before Legal Writing (LGL 126).

Program advisors will help you create a schedule that meets your needs. Students should meet with a program advisor at least once a semester.

Q. What is the difference between the roles of Student Services counselor/advisor and program advisor?

A. The Student Services department assists with admissions, registration, and transcript evaluations. Program advisors teach Paralegal Studies courses, help students select the appropriate classes, and provide career and academic advising.

Q. Who is my program advisor?

A. Contact Professor Kelly Hebron (khebron@nvcc.edu) if your last name begins with N-Z; contact Professor Joyce McMillan (jmcmillan@nvcc.edu) if your last name begins with A-M.

Q. May I substitute paralegal courses?

A. Because the Paralegal Studies program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) students must take the courses listed here: https://catalog.nvcc.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=11&poid=2595&returnto=1256

In extenuating circumstances, the Program Head will consider substitution requests on a case-by-case basis.

If you have any additional questions, contact Professor Joyce McMillan (Program Head) at jmcmillan@nvcc.edu.

Paralegals are prohibited by law from offering legal services directly to members of the public.