Legal Support Services at Tidewater Community College
enrolling 11,797 students in Norfolk, VA.
Program Analysis
Graduates earn $33,677/yr, roughly in line with the $36,991 national median for Legal Support Services. The value proposition here depends on cost, not earnings.
The 35.4x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 61% task exposure — and the 17% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Legal Support Services graduates.
With first-year pay of $33,677 far exceeding the $13,307 median debt, the payback timeline is measured in months, not years.
At #66 out of 127 programs, Tidewater Community College's financial outcomes for Legal Support Services trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $33,677 to $40,986 shows 22% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
Legal Support Services connects to 2 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Legal Support Services graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Legal support workers, all other | $68,760 | -1.2% | 100% |
| Court reporters and simultaneous captioners | $67,310 | -0.3% | 4% |
| Paralegals and legal assistants | $61,010 | +0.2% | 48% |
About Legal Support Services Careers
Your work will be at the heart of the legal process. As a paralegal, you’ll spend your days in a law office, drafting motions, organizing evidence for trial, and using research databases to find case-critical information. You might also work as a legal assistant, managing an attorney's busy calendar, electronically filing documents with the court, and serving as the primary point of contact for clients during stressful times.
Compare & Explore
Legal Support Services Overview
Legal Support Services at Other Schools
Other Majors at Tidewater Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.