I built this character class based on the Baldur's Gate (D&D) Cleric. In a nutshell he's a heavy armored, mace wielding, shield bearing buff machine capable of healing.

Now, Skyrim is somewhat lacking in the buff department. In Baldur's Gate, the Cleric had access to armor spells (i.e. Stoneskin) that were quite helpful.

I'm just wondering if you think Alteration and its armor buffs are worthwhile on a character that is already wearing heavy armor and a shield. Assume I'm going to have access to Master level alteration skills.

If it makes a difference, the craft I'm focused on is Alchemy (so assume I'll have max level 'fortify alteration' potions on hand).

Please don't say "paralyze is awesome," I'm ONLY thinking about the armor buffs. Thanks!!!

Dragonhide is a hell of a spell, but if UESP's formulae are correct, Ebonyflesh only gives 12% mitigation, seeing as you wear armour and the mage armour perk is useless to you.

You can't have too much protection. You can use less powerful maces then your weapons skills increase more as you swing the mace more.

I think this would work great, since you don't plan on using enchanting or smithing I'm assuming since you mentioned Alchemy. I'm actually about to try something like this or exactly this. A couple days ago I just went nuts and started reading all I could about Paladins and Clerics ( from old D&D books ) and I developed a huge interest in them. I'm still more or less figuring out the difference between the two haha. Only thing I've been able to figure out is that Clerics are more oriented towards their deity while Padins have a slightly smaller focus in heir deity and more in vanquishing evil. I could be wrong but oh well. Back on topic, 100% support the Alteration skin spells for your build.