Note: This program may lead to an occupational license for which a prior criminal history may make a student ineligible. For more information, please visit: https://www.dallascollege.edu/hb1508.
(Associate of Applied Science Degree)
El Centro campus only
- Students pursuing this award program are required to meet Texas Success Initiative (TSI) standards and course prerequisites.
- Complete at least 25% of the credit hours required for graduation through instruction by Dallas College.
Degree Plan Code: AAS.PARALEGAL.10
The Paralegal Studies Program is an Associate of Applied Science Degree program designed to prepare the student to function as a technically qualified assistant to the lawyer.
Upon completion of the program, graduates should be able to accomplish these program goals:
- Demonstrate the ability to comprehend, apply, and evaluate information in various substantive areas of law.
- Demonstrate the ability to draft legal documents with minimum supervision.
- Demonstrate written and oral communication skills, teamwork, critical thinking, computer proficiency, and legal research relevant to their work as a paralegal.
- Demonstrate the ability to integrate legal theory and related practical applications.
- Demonstrate the ability to manage practical ethical dilemmas commonly encountered by working paralegals including how to avoid the unauthorized practice of law by non-lawyers.
Paralegals (also called legal assistants) typically work in law firms, governmental agencies, corporations, and other business entities. The program does not qualify a graduate to take a State Bar exam, represent clients in court, give legal advice, or provide independent legal services.