Go to Page Section:
Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges, the Texas Center for Advanced Legal Studies (CALS) is a private institution offering paralegal certificates, Associate of Applied Science (AAS), and Bachelor of Science programs.
The school is best known for its hybrid and online learning opportunities, as well as hands-on training and strong career services.
About the Texas Center for Advanced Legal Studies
Location & Flexibility
Located in Houston, CALS has a strong emphasis on online learning, so its paralegal programs are offered to students nationwide.
Since 1987, the school has been educating paralegals to be prepared for an entry-level position.
Mission & Relevance
The school focuses on providing students with the skills and knowledge to meet the requirements of business, governmental, and legal communities across the United States.
The goal of the program is to prepare students to demonstrate ethical standards, display enhanced knowledge of legal software systems, exhibit practical knowledge in legal research, and assist attorneys with legal services.
Program Structure & Curriculum
Degree Type: AAS Paralegal
Total Credits: 60 Credits
Course Breakdown
Students are required to take the following:
Paralegal Specialty Courses
-
- Civil Procedure
- Computers and the Law
- Corporate and Business Law
- Family Law
- Investigation and Interviewing
- Introduction to Ethics and Law
- Legal Writing and Research
- Personal Injury
General Education Courses
-
- American Government I
- Anatomy & Physiology I
- Contemporary Math
- English Composition I
- English Composition II
- General Psychology
- Introduction to Speech Communication
Elective Courses (choose five)
-
- Advanced Civil Procedure
- Advanced Research and Writing
- Certification Exam Preparation
- Contracts
- Criminal Procedure and Law
- E-Discovery
- Externship
- Immigration Law
- Intellectual Property
- Oil and Gas Law
- Real Estate
- Wills, Trusts, and Probate
Delivery Modes & Scheduling
Students who are enrolled in an entirely online program can start the program whenever they are ready.
Those with an in-person or a hybrid learning format must start at the beginning of the Fall or Spring Semesters.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Employers prefer an AAS degree over a paralegal certificate. | Cannot provide legal advice or represent clients after graduation. |
| Graduates report high success rates in finding jobs after graduating from the program, likely due to the excellent career services support. | Unless you opt for the Certification Exam Preparation elective, CALS doesn’t prepare students for national certification. |
| Online learning offers the flexibility of fitting modern schedules. | |
| The program is centered around providing practical paralegal skills that help graduates find employment and be successful in entry-level positions. |
How to Apply / Next Steps
Step One: Visit the Website
The school prefers that candidates apply online at the CALS website.
The first step is to create a login to start the application.
Step Two: Fill Out the Application Form
The next step is to complete the application form and upload the required documents, which include high school transcripts and identification.
When available, there is an area to provide your employment history and current employment status.
The school also requests that you state your goals during the application process.
Step Three: Check Your Email Regularly
After applying, you will receive confirmation that your application has been received.
Check your email regularly to confirm acceptance into the program.
Contact Information
The school can be contacted by visiting paralegal.edu or dialing 713-529-2778.
| Texas Center for Advanced Legal Studies: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC) |
| Location | 800 W Sam Houston Pkwy S, Suite 100 Houston, TX, 77042 |
| Website | https://paralegal.edu/ |
| Phone | 713-529-2778 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | 7 Months |
| Student Rating | 80 / 100 based on 1 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the CALS AAS Paralegal program American Bar Association (ABA) approved?
CALS was previously ABA-approved, but wanted to provide students with more flexible online learning opportunities across the U.S., so the school withdrew its approval.
What is the cost of the CALS AAS Paralegal program?
The total program cost is $21,600, including registration, learning resources, and student e-services fees.
How do I know if the online AAS is the right choice for me?
Those who can work independently, have excellent time management skills, and the ability to organize, and are self-motivated are the best candidates for online learning.
I’ve heard numerous success stories from TCALS graduates who have gone on to have fulfilling and impactful careers in the legal field.
The supportive and inclusive learning environment fosters a sense of community among students. The faculty is approachable, and there are ample resources available to help students succeed.
One of the standout features of TCALS is its strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning. Student gain real-world experience through internships and externships, which is invaluable for their future legal careers.
I was impressed by the diverse range of programs and courses offered at TCALS. I am thinking of studying paralegal once I have the money to enroll.
My dad sent me this blog. Saying that it is never too late for me. Thank you for this helpful guide. I could inquire and plan ahead. This is my second chance and I hope I can really get this done. This will be my last chance, too.