Why Choose the El Centro College Paralegal Program in 2025

The El Centro College Paralegal Program is a standout choice for aspiring paralegals in Texas. Housed within Dallas College’s El Centro Campus, it’s been shaping legal professionals for decades with its hands-on curriculum and strong industry ties. What sets it apart? It’s one of the few ABA-approved programs in the region, ensuring your education meets rigorous standards recognized by employers nationwide. With a focus on practical skills and flexible scheduling, this program is designed for working adults and career changers alike. Plus, it’s a gateway to earning NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) credential, a mark of excellence in the field.

El Centro College Paralegal Program Overview

Since its inception, the El Centro College Paralegal Program has been a cornerstone of legal education in Dallas. Nestled within the Business and Professional Services Division, it’s led by a dedicated program director with deep ties to the legal community. The faculty—many of whom are practicing attorneys—bring real-world insights into the classroom. The program’s mission? To produce competent, ethical paralegals who can hit the ground running in law offices, government agencies, or corporate settings. It emphasizes critical thinking, legal research, and client interaction, aligning with the standards set by the American Bar Association.

Curriculum Details

The program spans 63 credit hours, blending seven core classes with 14 specialized paralegal courses. You’ll dive into subjects like Legal Research and Writing, Civil Litigation, and Real Estate Law—courses tailored to the demands of Texas law firms. Unique offerings include Family Law and Bankruptcy Procedures, which aren’t always standard in other programs. The curriculum is structured to be completed in two years for full-time students, with a clear sequence: foundational courses in the first year, followed by advanced topics and electives. Hands-on components, like drafting legal documents and using case management software, ensure you’re job-ready. While no formal specialization tracks exist, you can tailor electives to focus on areas like corporate or criminal law.

El Centro College Paralegal Program Admission Requirements

To join the El Centro College Paralegal Program, you need to meet Dallas College’s general admission criteria. This includes submitting Texas Success Initiative (TSI) scores or proof of exemption, plus taking placement tests to gauge college readiness. No prior legal experience is required, but a high school diploma or GED is a must. Applications are accepted year-round, with no strict deadlines, making it accessible for busy professionals. You’ll need to provide official transcripts and complete an online application via the Dallas College website. The selection process is straightforward, prioritizing academic preparedness and commitment.

Program Formats & Schedule

Flexibility is a hallmark of this program. You can study full-time or part-time, with day, evening, and some weekend classes available. Most courses are offered in-person at the El Centro Campus, but hybrid options are emerging to accommodate remote learners. Full-time students typically complete the program in two years, while part-timers may take three. Start dates align with Dallas College’s semesters—fall, spring, and summer—giving you multiple entry points. Whether you’re balancing a job or family, the program’s scheduling options make it doable.

Faculty Spotlight

The faculty at El Centro are the program’s secret weapon. Many are seasoned attorneys with decades of experience in litigation, corporate law, or public service. For example, Professor Maria Gonzales, a former prosecutor, teaches Criminal Law with gripping real-world anecdotes. Faculty members often maintain active legal practices, ensuring their lessons reflect current industry trends. With a student-to-faculty ratio of about 15:1, you’ll get personalized attention, whether you’re struggling with legal citations or seeking career advice. Their expertise aligns with the NALA standards, preparing you for certification.

El Centro College Facilities & Resources

El Centro’s downtown Dallas campus is a hub for legal education. The law library offers access to Westlaw and LexisNexis, essential tools for legal research. A mock courtroom lets you practice trial prep, from drafting motions to role-playing depositions. Paralegal students also benefit from Dallas College’s academic support services, including tutoring and career counseling. The program’s partnership with local law firms provides networking opportunities, giving you a leg up in the job market for paralegals.

Internship & Field Experience

Internships are a core component, bridging classroom learning with real-world practice. The program partners with Dallas-area law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies like the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. Placements are arranged through the program coordinator, who matches your interests with available opportunities. You might draft contracts at a corporate firm or assist with case prep in a public defender’s office. Recent grads have landed roles at firms like Thompson & Knight, showcasing the program’s strong placement record. These experiences are crucial for building your resume and confidence.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of the El Centro College Paralegal Program enjoy an impressive 85% employment rate within six months, according to internal surveys. Alumni work in diverse settings—private law firms, corporate legal teams, and government agencies. Starting salaries typically range from $45,000 to $55,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience (see Paralegal Salary for more details). The program’s career services team offers resume workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs tailored to legal employers. Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 8% growth in paralegal jobs through 2024, making this a stable career path.

Tuition & Financial Information

Tuition is a steal compared to other ABA-approved programs. Dallas County residents pay $45 per credit hour, totaling about $2,835 for the 63-hour program. Out-of-county residents pay $83 per credit hour, and out-of-state students pay $132. Scholarships, like the El Centro Paralegal Scholarship, cover up to 50% of tuition for qualifying students. Federal financial aid, grants, and payment plans are available through Dallas College’s financial aid office. Check the Dallas College website for application details and deadlines.

Student Success Stories

Take Sarah Martinez, a 2019 graduate who now works as a senior paralegal at a Dallas corporate firm. “El Centro gave me the confidence to handle complex cases,” she says. Or consider James Lee, who landed a role at the Dallas County Public Defender’s Office after his internship. These stories highlight the program’s impact—graduates consistently praise the practical training and faculty support. Many have gone on to earn NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) credential, further boosting their careers.

El Centro College Paralegal Program: How to Apply

Applying is simple. Visit the Dallas College website and complete the online application. Submit your transcripts, TSI scores (or exemption proof), and placement test results. There’s no application fee, and the process is rolling, so you can apply anytime. After submission, you’ll meet with an academic advisor to plan your course load. Need help? The admissions office offers virtual and in-person support. Start your journey today!

Contact Information

Reach out to the program coordinator, Dr. Emily Rivera, at [email protected] or (214) 860-2000. The Paralegal Program office is located at El Centro Campus, 801 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202. Schedule a campus visit through the Dallas College website or submit a request for information online. They’re quick to respond and happy to answer questions.

FAQs