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Paralegals are trained professionals who perform legal duties under the supervision of an attorney.
They are critical members of legal teams.
Some things that paralegals do include drafting legal documents, performing legal research, creating exhibits, and interviewing clients and witnesses.
They assist attorneys with trial preparation and may perform duties that depend on where they work.
Paralegals need to complete a paralegal program.
Finding an ideal program helps future paralegals take the first step towards a new career.
The El Centro College Paralegal Studies, Associate of Applied Science program is one option for students who want to become paralegals.
El Centro College is a part of Dallas College.
Dallas College originally operated as a combined district of seven colleges.
The schools united under the single name of Dallas College in 2020 for a more streamlined experience.
El Centro College is the only school that offers the Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies program.
About El Centro College
Location and Flexibility
El Centro College is in Downtown Dallas.
It was the first of the Dallas College locations to open its doors when students started enrolling in 1966.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Degree Type: Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies
Total Credit Hours: 60 semester credits
Course Breakdown
- Year 1, Semester 1: Legal Research and Writing, Introduction to Law and the Legal Professions, Paralegal Elective, Law Office Technology, Composition I.
- Year 1, Semester 2: Civil Litigation, Contracts, Wills, Trusts, and Probate Administration, Family Law, Math Elective.
- Year 2, Semester 1: Torts and Personal Injury Law, Business Organizations, Introduction to Speech Communication or Public Speaking, Federal Government, or Texas Government, Cooperative Education – Legal Assistant/Paralegal.
- Year 2, Semester 2: Real Property, Advanced Legal Research and Writing, Cooperative Education – Legal Assistant/Paralegal, or Elective Paralegal, Elective Humanities/Fine Arts, Elective Social/Behavioral Science.
Students must complete six credit hours of Paralegal Electives.
They are required to have a paid legal position before the beginning of the semester in which they enroll in the Cooperative Education – Legal Assistant/Paralegal course.
Delivery Modes and Scheduling
El Centro College offers the Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies program at the school and in a 100 percent online format.
Speak to an advisor about your preferred option and for scheduling classes.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Students have access to an on-campus law library and legal research systems. | Students must have Texas Success Initiative (TSI) scores on file before they can enroll in courses. |
| The American Bar Association approves the Paralegal Studies Associate of Applied Science program. | Students who want to continue their education may find that all program credits may not transfer to a four-year university. |
| Students can complete the program in a 100 percent online format. | The school charges higher tuition for students who live outside of Dallas County. |
How to Apply/Next Steps
Decide which term you want to enroll in and start the admissions process.
Apply for state and federal financial aid.
Apply for scholarships.
Search for other financial aid sources and apply for any financial aid that applies to you.
| El Centro College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) |
| Location | 801 Main Street Dallas, TX, 75202 |
| Website | https://www.dallascollege.edu/locations/el-centro |
| Phone | +1 214-860-2000 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | No |
| Program Length | 2 Years |
| Student Rating | 100 / 100 based on 3 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies program?
It takes two years of full-time study to complete the program.
Courses are spread over four semesters.
Does the American Bar Association approve this program?
The school says that this program is one of only a few paralegal programs in the state of Texas that is approved by the American Bar Association.
Who can I talk to about this program?
Contact the School of Law and Public Services for further questions about the paralegal program.
I’m open to anything related to paralegal. Any recommendations? I am interested in submitting my application to El Centro months before the school year starts.
Is it worth it to try and apply again for this year? I didn’t pass my application last year, not sure why because I know I did well.
I want to transfer to El Centro because of an emergency. My mom wants me near them because of my dad’s condition. I hope the transfer won’t be a hassle.