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While people often think the lawyers and judges are key to a winning court case, the true strength lies with the paralegal.
These individuals bring together all the facts and information necessary to make a case.
Paralegals investigate cases, interview witnesses, and draft documents such as wills, contracts, and court papers.
As a result, paralegals must be proficient in computer skills, legal terminology, and legal procedures.
A paralegal degree can open the door to many opportunities, including the first steps toward a degree in law if that is what you choose.
About School
Since offering its first classes at area high schools in 1985, Collin College has expanded to 10 locations and iCollin.
This school is fully accredited and offers over 200 degrees and certificates.
The Goal of the Paralegal Program
The goals of the Paralegal/Legal Assistant program are:
- The program will reflect a diverse student body.
- The program will produce graduates who possess the legal knowledge and technology skills necessary to qualify them for employment in a legal work environment.
- The program will produce graduates who demonstrate an understanding of their ethical responsibility in the legal profession.
- The program will emphasize written communication skills.
- The program will promote opportunities to serve the needs of the local community and encourage pro bono and public interest causes.
Program Structure & Curriculum
First Semester
- Composition I
- Introduction to Law and the Legal Professions
- Introduction to Legal Conventions
- College Algebra
Second Semester
- Federal Government (Federal constitution and topics) C
- Legal Research Credits: 3
- Torts and Personal Injury Law Credits: 3
- Advanced Legal Document Preparation Credits: 3
Third Semester
- Composition II
- Civil Litigation
- Contracts
- Introduction to Formal Logic
Third Semester
- Legal Writing
- Family Law
- Business Organizations
- Speech course
Fourth Semester
- Wills, Trusts, and Probate Administration
- Certified Paralegal Exam Review
- ELECTIVE
- ELECTIVE
Delivery Modes & Scheduling
All classes, except the orientation, are offered online. Timing is flexible
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The program is accredited | If you aren't from Collin County, your tuition is a lot higher. |
| Online options are available | Not many opportunities to network with other program participants. |
| There are opportunities for internships | There are only two full-time professors in the program. |
How to Apply / Next Steps
- Complete an application for admission online at https://www.collin.edu/apply/.
- Participate in New Student Orientation
- Complete the mandatory campus safety training.
- Provide proof of meningitis vaccination or exemption
- Complete the TSI Assessment with the Pre-Assessment Activity
- Submit high school transcript/homeschool transcript/GED Score report OR college transcript(s) as applicable.
| Collin College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Location | 2505 Kinship Parkway Celina, TX, 75009 3452 Spur 399 McKinney, TX, 75069 2200 W. University Drive McKinney, TX, 75071 4800 Preston Park Blvd. Plano, TX, 75093 2800 E. Spring Creek Pkwy Plano, TX, 75074 501 S. Collin Parkway Farmersville, TX, 75442 9700 Wade Blvd. Frisco, TX, 75035 2550 Bending Branch Way Allen, TX, 75035 391 Country Club Road Wylie, TX, 75098 |
| Website | https://www.collin.edu/ |
| Phone | 972-881-5760 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | Yes |
| Program Length | ~ 2 Years |
| Student Rating | 80 / 100 based on 2 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to attend classes in person or can I do it all online?
With ten campuses available, there is plenty of opportunity to attend live classes.
However, for students who need the versatility offered by online education, this is also an option for many of the classes.
The program itself is not considered an online program.
How can I find more information about those teaching the program and find out what they are looking for in students?
The two full-time instructors in the program are:
Professor Gage Waggoner (gwaggoner@collin.edu)
Professor Cynthia Farris Gruver (cgruver@collin.edu)
I already have a college degree but would like to enhance my legal skills. Do I need to take the whole Associate's degree program?
No, people who already have a degree may be eligible for admission to the Level 2 Paralegal General Certificate program.
I had a great time with their program.
It was easier than I expected it would be, and I was able to land a job as a paralegal about 2 months after completing the program.
I liked that it gave a clear overview of Collin College’s paralegal programs, including courses highlights like contract, civil litigations, and legal writing. It helped me understand how their program prepares students for real world work and what career paths are realistic after graduations.