Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Court Reporter Schools in Anaheim, Antioch, Bakersfield, Berkeley, Burbank city, Carlsbad, Chico, Chula Vista, Clovis, and Concord.
Curious about the best Court Reporter Schools in California?
You’re in the right place.
This article highlights top programs offering the most effective training and education for aspiring court reporters.
Learn about their unique features, accreditation, and real-world training opportunities that can elevate your career in legal transcription and reporting.
Taft College – Court Reporting Program
Located at the WESTEC campus in Shafter, CA, Taft College offers a Court Reporting program provisionally recognized by the California Court Reporters Board. This program is on its way to achieving full recognition and delivers thorough preparation for the Certified Shorthand Reporter examination.
Program Highlights
- Degree Options: You can pursue either an Associate in Science Degree in Court Reporting or a Court Reporting Certificate of Achievement.
- Skill Requirements: Achieve a minimum shorthand speed of 200 WPM and keyboarding speed of 45 WPM.
- Employment Opportunities: Gain skills applicable in courtrooms, legislatures, and public events, with a median annual wage of $60,380 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Taft College provides versatile career opportunities making it a solid choice for aspiring court reporters. For more details, you can learn more here.
Cypress College – Court Reporting Program
Cypress College offers a robust and flexible Court Reporting program designed to prepare students for a wide range of careers related to court reporting.
Key Features
- Comprehensive Curriculum: This includes machine shorthand theory, speed building, and Computer-Aided Transcription (CAT) systems.
- Labs and Practical Training: Access practice labs, high-speed proficiency labs, and the Qualifier Lab.
- Certification Preparation: Training for the California Certified Shorthand Reporter’s Examination and National Court Reporting Association Examinations.
Additionally, internships provide real-world experience in environments such as law offices and medical reporting. Graduates can expect a promising career with an average salary range of $28,000 to $119,000.
Explore more about Cypress College’s program here.
South Coast College – Court Reporting Program
South Coast College in California is a leader in court reporting education, known for its hands-on training and experienced instructors.
Program Attributes
- Instructors: Learn from Certified Shorthand Reporters with real industry experience.
- Real-World Opportunities: Employment in various fields such as official court reporting, deposition reporting, live TV captioning, and CART reporting.
- Certifications: Prepare for certifications like the California Court Reporters Board, Registered Professional Reporter (RPR), and Certified Realtime Reporter (CRP).
The program’s small size ensures personalized attention, and the school’s strong industry connections help graduates secure employment before certification. Explore this trusted program here.
West Valley College – Court Reporting and Captioning Program
With over 40 years of quality training, West Valley College is known for its accessible and flexible Court Reporting and Captioning program.
Key Aspects
- Live and Flexible Classes: Offers live Zoom classes and other flexible options, making it accessible statewide and even to out-of-state residents.
- Certification Training: Prepares students for state and national certification exams including the California Certified Shorthand Reporters written and skills exams.
- Fee Structure: No registration fees and financial aid options available for other college programs.
The program aligns with the growing demand for litigation and captioning services, anticipating an 18% projected growth in employment. Learn more about the opportunities at West Valley College here.
Downey Adult School – Court Reporting Program
The Court Reporting Program at Downey Adult School is a notable choice for aspiring court reporters in California. It’s designed to equip students with the skills needed to become licensed Certified Shorthand Court Reporters.
Program Features
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers vital areas such as English grammar, punctuation, medical and legal terminologies, courtroom procedures, and advanced software like CaseCAT and Eclipse.
- Duration and Cost: The program lasts between 2 to 4 years, with a total of 1110 hours of study per year and costs $4,999 per year, excluding books.
- Certification Eligibility: Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Shorthand Reporter (CSR) certification exam.
- Job Opportunities: Careers include Deposition Court Reporter, CART Provider, and TV captioning, with an average annual salary of over $85,000.
- Support Services: Features a confidential reporting system called WeTip for anonymous concern reporting.
Downey Adult School offers significant support, aligning with its mission to provide high-quality and accessible education for adults. Discover more details here.
Tri-Community Adult Education – Court Reporting Program
Tri-Community Adult Education offers an entirely online Court Reporting program that is certified by the California Court Reporters Board. This program accommodates both adult learners and high school students in the 11th and 12th grades.
Key Highlights
- Online Learning: The program is entirely online, making it accessible and convenient.
- Curriculum: Includes modules in Voice Writing and Machine Theory, alongside speed building and academic courses.
- Certification Preparation: Prepares students for state and national certification exams.
- Affordable Tuition: Costs $3495 per year, and students can test out of some classes based on prior education or experience.
- Earnings Potential: Licensed court reporters from this program can potentially earn over $100,000 annually.
A mandatory orientation is required for new students, and extensive resources are available through the New Student Portal in Canvas. For more information, visit the Tri-Community Adult Education program page.
Tips for Choosing the Best Court Reporting Program in California
When selecting a court reporting program in California, several factors can guide you in making the best choice. Understanding these factors ensures you enroll in a program that aligns with your career goals and educational needs.
Key Considerations
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by the California Court Reporters Board or a similar recognized body. Accreditation guarantees the program meets industry standards.
- Course Offerings: Evaluate whether the curriculum includes comprehensive training in both theory and practical skills. Important components include machine shorthand speed building, legal and medical terminologies, and advanced CAT systems.
- Flexibility of Classes: If balancing studies with work or other responsibilities is crucial, look for programs offering online classes, evening sessions, or self-paced learning options.
- Real-World Training Opportunities: Practical experience through internships or externships in relevant settings can be invaluable. Check if the program provides these opportunities.
- Success Rate of Graduates: Examine the program’s history of graduate success, including examination pass rates and employment statistics. This provides insight into how well the program prepares its students for real-world careers.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Assess the tuition and associated costs. Look into the availability of financial aid, scholarships, or payment plans that can make the education more affordable.
Additional Tips
- Visit the Campus: Visiting the campus can give you a sense of the learning environment and resources available.
- Talk to Students and Alumni: Speak with current students and alumni to gain firsthand insights into the program’s quality and overall experience.
These steps ensure that you select a court reporting school in California that aligns with your career aspirations and provides the necessary support for success.
Court Reporter Schools By State
Conclusion: Take the Next Step in Your Court Reporting Career
Choosing the right school is a crucial step toward a successful career in court reporting. Evaluate your options, visit campuses, and speak to advisors to make an informed decision. Embark on your journey toward a rewarding profession in court reporting today.