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People who want to work in the legal profession often consider working as paralegals.
The career field allows them to work in legal settings without having to earn a law degree or a four-year degree.
They are professionals who have the comprehensive knowledge and skills that paralegals need for their careers.
Some of the duties that paralegals have include conducting legal research, conducting interviews, reviewing legal precedent, and drafting legal documents.
Some other things that they do include obtaining affidavits and other legal statements that attorneys may use in court, and helping attorneys prepare for various court proceedings.
Paralegals gain the knowledge and skills that are required for their career by completing a paralegal education program.
One program that students may consider is the Paralegal, Associate of Applied Science program at McLennan Community College.
About McLennan Community College
Location and Flexibility
McLennan Community College is in Waco, Texas.
The 275-acre campus sits adjacent to Cameron Park and the Bosque River.
The school has been serving students since 1965.
Today, the school serves more than 8,000 students.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Degree Type: Paralegal, Associate of Applied Science
Total Credits: 60 credit hours
Course Breakdown
- Year 1, Semester 1: Introduction to Law, Civil Litigation, Administrative Office Procedures I or Leadership, Composition I, Law Office Management.
- Year 1, Semester 2: Introduction to Paralegal Studies, Legal Research and Writing, Introduction to Word Processing, Composition II or Technical and Business Writing, Family and Property Law.
- Year 2, Semester 1: Criminal Law and Evidence, Business Law, Interpersonal Communication, Introduction to Spreadsheets, Math Elective.
- Year 2, Semester 2: Wills, Trusts, and Probate Administration, Internship – Paralegal/Legal Assistant, Texas Government: Texas Constitution and Topics, Advanced Legal Document Preparation, Introduction to Criminal Justice or Introduction to Ethics.
Delivery Modes and Scheduling
The Paralegal, Associate of Applied Science program at McLennan Community College is offered on campus, in a face-to-face format.
Pros and Cons of the Paralegal Program
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| The paralegal program is a two-year program, not a four-year program. | No information is provided about whether the program is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA). |
| Students learn the latest technologies used by paralegals. | There is no online option. |
| The program offers an internship so that students can gain real-world training. | Limited detailed information is available on the program page about the paralegal program. |
How to Apply/Next Steps
Enroll in the school to become a student.
Enroll in the paralegal program to start your first term.
Explore your financial aid options.
Apply for federal and state financial aid programs.
Search for and apply for scholarships.
Look for other financial aid options that apply to you.
Contact Information
Contact the school at 254-299-8622.
Complete the online paralegal program director contact form for more information about the Paralegal, Associate of Applied Science program.
You can also visit the website at https://www.mclennan.edu/paralegal-studies/.
| McLennan Community College: Key Details | |
|---|---|
| Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), |
| Location | 1400 College Drive Waco, TX, 76708 |
| Website | https://www.mclennan.edu/paralegal-studies/ |
| Phone | 254-299-8622 |
| On Campus? | Yes |
| Online? | No |
| Program Length | 2 Years |
| Student Rating | 100 / 100 based on 1 student reviews |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to complete the paralegal program?
It takes two years of full-time study for students to complete the program.
Students complete 60 credit hours over four semesters.
Can I start working as a paralegal as soon as I graduate from this program?
The Paralegal, Associate of Applied Science program prepares students to start working as paralegals immediately after graduation.
Some students may prefer to continue their education.
Can I give legal advice to clients once I earn this degree?
Paralegals are not permitted to give legal advice.
They must follow the Texas Rules of Professional Conduct for paralegals when they are in contact with clients and legal officials.
What I miss about McLennan is the view. The building here is very well put and it is relaxing when you are studying for exams and everything.