Explore Academic Programs - Paralegal


The Paralegal/Legal Assistant two-year program is designed for students seeking employment as paralegals. A paralegal (also known as a legal assistant or legal clerk) is a professional who, by training and experience, is qualified to perform legal functions under the direction and supervision of an attorney, court or military command. This curriculum also serves students who are exploring their interest in law-related careers, including as lawyers.  In addition to our full two-year program, we now offer a one-year "job starter" certificate.

The legal field is desperate for properly trained, intelligent and enthusiastic persons of the highest ethical caliber. Studies on the national and state level continue to indicate the great employment potential. CTC's Paralegal/Legal Assistant programs equip students to gain employment in federal, state, military and private sector law departments - even to go on to law school.

Pre-law students - This program is also your ideal choice if you have aspirations of attending law school someday. Virtually all of our courses are scaled down versions of the same courses you will be required to take in law school and are taught by graduates of law school.  No other program in Central Texas can say that.

Through the cooperation of the legal community, a paralegal internship is available to students as a "capstone" option.  Students may work in public legal agencies and private law firms.  The students coordinate with a faculty member to discuss their placement and receive practical and intensive supervised paralegal experience through their internship.

This program not only teaches the legal basics, but integrates theory with actual practice.  Students are introduced to the latest technology used by law firms in the areas of case and litigation management, time keeping and billing systems, and document assembly systems.


Careers, Potential Earnings & Market Growth Rates

Paralegal

Texas:  the average yearly salary is $53,820

United States:  the average yearly salary is $49,098

Market Growth Rate: average (5 - 8 %)

Lawyer*

Texas:  the average yearly salary is $124,199

United States:  the average yearly salary is $94,870

Market Growth Rate: average (5 - 8 %)

 
* Further study (bachelor's degree) required | ** Study beyond bachelor's degree required

Know Your Path? CTC Pathway


Degrees and Certificates

This program offers different pathways, and you can choose your final destination. Students may pursue an associate degree or certificate. The associate degree adds additional paralegal coursework along with more general academic courses. The certificate allows more immediate employability with courses focused on paralegal studies.

 

Degrees & Certificates Delivery Mode
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Paralegal/Legal Assistant (AAS)
60 credit hours, four semesters full time
 Central Campus Day
 Online
 Other U.S. locations (Fort Gregg-Adams, Fort Johnson)
Paralegal/Legal Assistant (CC) 30 credit hours, two semesters full time  Central Campus Day
 Online
Course Descriptions
LGLA


Contact the Department

Office: 254-526-1789

For more information about this program visit

 Paralegal/Legal Assistant