Not in Raleigh? Check out our lists of Legal Administrative Assistant Programs in Cary, Charlotte, Concord, Durham, Fayetteville, Greensboro, High Point, Wilmington, Winston-Salem, and across North Carolina.
Are you looking to jump-start your career as a legal administrative assistant in Raleigh, NC?
This article breaks down the top programs in the area, highlighting what makes each one unique and how they can equip you with essential skills for success in the legal field.
Get the insights you need to make an informed choice.
Wake Technical Community College – Office Administration Program
For aspiring legal administrative assistants in Raleigh, NC, the Office Administration program at Wake Technical Community College is an excellent choice. This program is designed to prepare you for employment as an administrative office professional, equipping you with the skills necessary to succeed in various office environments.
Program Highlights
The curriculum offers a variety of courses that focus on essential administrative skills. Here’s what you can expect:
- Administrative Office Procedures: Learn the essential tasks and procedures needed for smooth office operations.
- Office Software Applications: Gain proficiency in key software applications such as Microsoft Office and QuickBooks.
- Records Management: Understand the best practices for managing office records.
- Keyboarding and Editing: Enhance your typing speed and accuracy, along with document formatting skills.
- Office Computations: Get equipped with the mathematical skills necessary for tasks like budgeting and financial records.
- Communication Skills: Develop strong oral and written communication abilities.
- Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Learn to analyze situations and come up with effective solutions.
- Team Building: Enhance your ability to work effectively as part of a team.
This program also ensures flexibility by offering courses online, making it easier for you to balance education with other commitments. Additionally, students are eligible to take industry-recognized certification exams such as MOS (Microsoft Office) and QuickBooks, which can enhance your employability.
Career Prospects
Graduates from this program can pursue various roles in businesses, government agencies, financial institutions, real estate offices, the court system, and law offices. With a focus on practical skills that are highly valued in the workplace, this program positions you well for a successful career.
However, it’s important to note that this program will be terminated in May 2026 and is no longer accepting new enrollments. Current students will work with faculty advisors to ensure they complete their degrees by May 2026.
To learn more about the Wake Technical Community College Office Administration program, visit their website.
North Carolina State University – Legal Secretary Certificate Course
The Legal Secretary Certificate Course at North Carolina State University offers an intensive curriculum designed for both beginners and experienced legal assistants. This program can help you improve your skills and streamline your work in a legal office setting.
Course Highlights
This course is comprehensive and covers a wide range of essential topics. Here’s what you will learn:
- Legal Terminology: Understand the specialized vocabulary used in the legal field.
- Ethics: Learn about the ethical considerations essential in legal work.
- Legal Process and Jurisdiction: Gain insights into the structure of the legal system and how cases are handled.
- Written Communications: Master the art of drafting various legal documents, including letters, pleadings, and memos.
- Filing Procedures and Records Management: Learn best practices for managing and organizing legal documents.
- Billing and Accounting: Get equipped with skills for managing financial tasks in a legal office.
- Time Management: Enhance your ability to manage time effectively, a crucial skill in any busy office.
- Legal Research and Citation: Develop the ability to conduct legal research and format citations correctly.
Flexible and Accessible
One of the standout features of this course is its flexibility. The course is entirely online, allowing you to complete coursework on your schedule. The curriculum is accessible 24/7, making it convenient for you to learn at your own pace. The program can be completed in just seven weeks, offering a swift route to gaining valuable credentials.
Affordability and Support
This program is affordable, and payment plans are available to make it even more accessible. Traditional financial aid, such as Pell grants or Stafford Loans, usually do not apply, but the cost is competitive. The course is taught by practicing legal professionals, ensuring that you receive current and relevant instructions. Additionally, students receive ongoing administrative and technical support from CLS by BARBRI.
To qualify, you need a high school diploma or GED, and you must be at least 18 years old. Completing this certificate course can significantly boost your resume, making you more marketable in the legal field.
For more information, visit the North Carolina State University Legal Secretary Certificate Course page.
What to Consider When Choosing a Legal Administrative Assistant Program
Selecting the best Legal Administrative Assistant Program in Raleigh, NC is a crucial decision that can shape your career. Here are several factors you should consider to ensure you choose the right program for you.
- Accreditation:
Verify that the program is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation ensures the program meets high educational standards and that credits earned are recognized by other institutions and employers. - Curriculum:
Evaluate the curriculum to ensure it covers essential skills and knowledge areas such as: - Cost:
Consider the total cost of the program. This includes tuition, books, and any additional fees. Compare these costs with your budget and explore any available financial aid options, scholarships, or payment plans. - Format and Flexibility:
Determine whether the program offers in-person, online, or hybrid classes. Online programs offer flexibility and can be ideal if you have other commitments, while in-person classes might offer more direct interaction with instructors and peers. - Duration and Schedule:
Look at the program’s length and class schedules. Some programs can be completed in a few weeks, while others may take several months or years. Choose one that fits your timeline and life circumstances. - Career Services and Job Placement:
Research if the program offers career services such as: - Reputation and Reviews:
Look for reviews and ask for alumni testimonials to gauge the program’s reputation and the success of its graduates. High employment rates post-graduation are a good indicator of a program’s quality.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make a well-informed decision that aligns with your career aspirations and personal circumstances.
Top Choices: Legal Administrative Assistant Programs in Raleigh, NC
Now that we have covered the key considerations, let’s look into two standout programs available in Raleigh, NC.
Wake Technical Community College – Office Administration Program
Wake Technical Community College offers an Office Administration program that prepares individuals for various roles within administrative offices. This program provides a blend of essential office skills and specialized knowledge needed to excel in the workplace.
Key Features
- Flexible Learning Options: Courses are available online, accommodating students who may have other commitments.
- Industry-Recognized Certifications: The program prepares students for certifications such as MOS and QuickBooks.
- Diverse Curriculum: Covers administrative office procedures, office software applications, records management, keyboarding, communication, and more.
- Career Readiness: Graduates can qualify for office positions in businesses, government agencies, real estate offices, and law offices.
It’s important to note that this program will be terminated in May 2026, and no new enrollments are being accepted. Current students will be guided by faculty advisors to ensure they complete their degrees by this date.
For more information, visit the Wake Technical Community College Office Administration program.
North Carolina State University – Legal Secretary Certificate Course
North Carolina State University offers an intensive Legal Secretary Certificate Course tailored for both beginners and experienced legal assistants. The course is designed to help you improve your skills and streamline your work in a legal office environment.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Curriculum: The course covers legal terminology, ethical considerations, legal processes, written communications, filing procedures, records management, billing, and accounting.
- Fully Online: The course is accessible 24/7, allowing you to complete it on your schedule.
- Quick Completion: The program can be completed in just seven weeks, offering a swift route to gaining valuable credentials.
- Taught by Legal Professionals: Instructors are practicing legal professionals who update coursework to stay current with industry trends.
- Affordable: Payment plans are available, although traditional financial aid may not apply.
The course requires a high school diploma or GED and students must be 18 years or older to enroll.
For more information, visit the North Carolina State University Legal Secretary Certificate Course page.
Wrapping Up Your Search for the Best Legal Administrative Assistant Program
Choosing the right Legal Administrative Assistant Program involves thoughtful consideration of several factors. Both Wake Technical Community College and North Carolina State University offer strong programs with unique features designed to help you succeed in the legal field. We encourage you to explore these programs further and select the one that best aligns with your career goals and personal circumstances.
For more detailed information on these programs, check out the links provided in each section. Your path to becoming a proficient legal administrative assistant in Raleigh, NC starts with making an informed choice today.