* Court Reporting Program at a Community College or Vocational School: This is the most common route. These programs usually take 2 years to complete and offer a strong foundation in stenography (the fast shorthand writing method used by court reporters), courtroom procedures, legal terminology, and transcription skills. These programs often lead to a certificate or associate's degree.
* Court Reporting Program at a Specialized School: Some private schools offer court reporting programs that are similar in length and content to community college programs. They may have a focus on certain aspects, like realtime reporting or captioning.
* Online Programs: While some online components may be included in traditional programs, a fully online court reporting program is less common and likely to be less effective due to the highly hands-on nature of learning stenography. It's crucial to be cautious of online-only programs claiming to offer full court reporting training.
Beyond Formal Education:
After completing a program, most aspiring court reporters will need to:
* Pass a state certification exam: Requirements vary by state, but passing a written and practical exam is crucial for licensure.
* Gain experience: Many find entry-level positions such as freelance captioners or working in less demanding settings before moving to a full-time court reporting role. Internships can be invaluable.
* Continue professional development: Court reporters need to continually update their skills and knowledge of legal procedures and technologies.
In short, while a bachelor's degree isn't typically required, a dedicated court reporting program at a reputable institution is essential. The combination of this education and passing state certification exams are necessary for getting a job as a court reporter.