- Is there an application or waiting list for the Paralegal Program?
No. Currently students can enroll in our introductory courses: Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Civil Litigation and/or Family Law to begin the program provided they are eligible to take English 101 and Math 99. This eligibility can be determined by a placement exam or college transcripts. Students will take English 101 as part of the Paralegal Program but no math class is currently required. Students do not need to take all the Introductory Paralegal Courses (Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Civil Litigation and Family Law) their first semester but if they choose not to do so, it may take longer to complete other courses since these introductory courses are prerequisites for later classes. The Introductory Paralegal Courses will be next offered in the Fall 2008 semester with day, evening and weekend options.
- How long does the program take to complete?
Students must complete 21 courses to receive the Associate in Applied Science Degree in Paralegal Studies. Full time students should be able to complete the program in about two years. Part time students and those taking less than 5 classes per semester will take longer to complete the program. For example, if you are only able to take 3 courses per semester, completion of the program will take approximately 7 semesters.
- I have never taken classes at Wright College before. What do I need to do to register for classes?
Prospective students can also call (773.481.8200) or visit the Wright College Gateway in Room A-120. Advisors are available both daytime and evenings on a walk-in basis during the school year. The Gateway is open Monday – Thursday 9:00am – 7:00pm and Fridays 9:00am – 2:00pm.
General information on the Wright College application / registration process and answers to Frequently Asked Questions regarding registration can also be found on Wright’s website.
- Will I have to take a placement test to register for classes at Wright College?
New students who do not have prior college experience will be required to take a placement test. Information about the test (including a study guide and a list of upcoming placement test dates can be found on Wright’s website.
- I have never taken any courses at Wilbur Wright or any other community college but am eager to get started on the Paralegal Program right away. What should I take?
New students who have placed appropriately on their placement tests (read at a minimum of the 12th grade level, write at the Freshman Composition (101) level and placed into Mathematics 099) should register for as many of the introductory Paralegal Program courses (Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Civil Litigation and/or Family Law) and General Education requirements as they feel comfortable taking. The Introductory Paralegal Courses will be offered in the Fall 2008 semester with day, evening and weekend options.
- Do I have to take any math courses for the Paralegal Program?
Students must place in the Mathematics 099 level or above for formal admission, but the program does not require additional math courses or the completion of Mathematics 099. Note: completion of Pre-Credit Math Level Two with a grade of “C” or better is sufficient to meet the math placement requirement for the Paralegal Program.
- Will you accept transfer paralegal credits from another institution?
We will accept up to nine transfer credit hours of paralegal course work.
- Will other courses be offered next semester?
Yes. We will offer additional courses in the upcoming semester and will continue to offer day, evening and weekend options. A complete list of the Paralegal Courses to be offered can be found in the Wilbur Wright College Credit Course Schedule.
- Is there any hands-on training in the Paralegal Program?
There is currently an optional 3 credit Internship course available as the final course for the Paralegal AAS program. It is designed to enable students to combine classroom training with practical paralegal work experience through supervised on the job training in a public or private legal institution. The internship course will include practical writing assignments (such as preparing a cover letter and resume) and aims to prepare the paralegal student for a successful start as a paralegal.
- Does the Paralegal Program offer job placement?
The Career Planning & Placement Center of Wilbur Wright College provides quality job and career related services to the students, alumni, and community residents of Wright College that will assist them in their career, educational, and holistic development. Students can call (773-481-8527) or visit the Career Planning & Placement Center in Room S-128. The Center is open Monday & Thursday, 8:30am-4:30pm, Tuesday & Wednesday, 8:30am-7:00pm and Friday, 8:30am-4:00pm. Further information about the Career Planning & Placement Center of Wilbur Wright College can be found on Wright’s website.
- Is becoming a paralegal a good idea if I think I might want to go to law school?
The Paralegal Program is an Associate level degree meaning you could complete your coursework in two years and begin working in the exciting paralegal field. Being a paralegal will allow you to experience working in the legal field and can be a good way for you to determine whether or not you might like to continue with your education and become a lawyer. It is important to note that accredited law schools require a Bachelor level degree for admission, so you will need to complete additional college level work before applying to law school unless you currently have a B.A. or B.S.
- Where can I find information about Wright’s tuition and fees?
Wright’s tuition for Chicago residents is $72.00 per credit hour, meaning tuition for a three credit hour class is $216. Registration and other fees may apply and students should budget approximately $100 per course for textbooks. Additional information on tuition and fees can be found on Wright’s website.
- Where can I find information about grants, scholarships and financial aid?
Information about grants, scholarships and financial aid can be found on Wright’s website. You can also contact our financial aid office at Financial Aid Office, Wright College, 4300 N. Narragansett Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60634-1591. You can contact the Financial Aid Office at 773/481-8100 or stop by Room A-128 Monday thru Thursday 9:00AM - 7:30PM and Friday 9:00AM - 4:00PM.
- I would like to tour the campus. When can I visit?
Information on campus tours can be found on Wright’s website.
- Who can I contact for more information about the paralegal program?
Please feel free to contact the Wright College Business Department (ask for the Paralegal Program Coordinator) at 773.481.8325 or email Wright College is accredited by the Higher Learning commission of the North Central Association of Illinois.