GADSDEN, AL — In the fast-paced world of law and media, where precision is paramount, court reporters and captioners serve as silent yet indispensable professionals. These skilled individuals ensure every word spoken in courtrooms and broadcast settings is captured accurately, creating permanent records that are essential to justice and accessibility.
Court reporters specialize in real-time, word-for-word transcriptions during trials, depositions, and legal proceedings. Captioners perform a similar role in media and public presentations, providing vital access for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Gadsden State Community College offers Alabama’s only National Court Reporters Association (NCRA)-approved Court Reporting Program at its East Broad Campus. The program provides specialized training in both court reporting and broadcast captioning.
“Through our unique program, we provide specialized training in both court reporting and broadcast captioning,” said Michelle Roberts, program director. “We provide students with the skills they need for a rewarding, in-demand career in the legal and media fields.”
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for court reporters is $63,940, and demand for qualified professionals is projected to grow, with approximately 1,600 job openings each year.
Roberts leads the program alongside instructors Brooke Davis and Leah Elkins. Students enrolled in the 24-month program can pursue an Associate in Applied Science degree in either Court Reporting or Broadcast Captioning. A short-term certification is also available for those interested in becoming litigation assistants.
“We are committed to ensuring our students have the best possible training opportunities,” Roberts said. “Our programs are designed to meet the high standards of the industry, and we take pride in preparing our graduates for successful careers.”
Applications for the Fall 2025 cohort are now open, with a deadline of July 1. Admission to the selective program is based on application materials, academic transcripts, test scores, and references.
Minimum requirements for applicants include:
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Unconditional admission to Gadsden State
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Proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding English
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U.S. citizenship or legal intent to become a citizen
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Disclosure of any felony convictions to the program director
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A high school diploma or GED
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A qualifying ACT score of 18 or higher, or a Placement score of five or above on the ACCUPLACER test
Those not meeting minimum scores must complete developmental courses before beginning the program.
For more information about the Court Reporting Program or other technical programs at Gadsden State, visit www.GadsdenState.edu/technical.
