The Miami Dade College Paralegal Program is a premier choice for aspiring Paralegals in South Florida, offering a robust education grounded in practical skills and legal theory. As the only program in Miami-Dade County approved by the American Bar Association, it stands out for its rigorous curriculum and strong industry connections. Certified to meet the highest standards in legal education, the program equips students to excel in diverse legal settings through hands-on training and a required internship. Its reputation for producing competitive graduates makes it a top choice for those seeking to enter the fast-growing Job Market for Paralegals.
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Miami Dade College Paralegal Program Overview
Established to meet the growing demand for skilled paralegals, the Miami Dade College Paralegal Program is housed within the School of Justice, Public Safety, and Law Studies at the Wolfson Campus. The program’s mission is to prepare students for entry-level paralegal roles by blending theoretical legal knowledge with practical applications. Faculty members, many of whom are practicing attorneys, bring real-world expertise to the classroom, fostering a professional and ethical mindset. The program’s ABA Approved status underscores its commitment to excellence, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) exam.
Curriculum Details
The Associate in Science in Paralegal Studies requires 64 credits, including 18 general education credits and 46 credits in paralegal-specific courses. Key courses include Legal Research and Writing, Litigation Procedures, Real Estate Law, and Family Law, providing a comprehensive foundation in substantive and procedural law. Unique offerings, such as courses in Wills, Trusts, and Estates, distinguish the program by addressing niche legal areas. The curriculum is structured over two years for full-time students, with a mandatory internship or co-op in the final semester to hone practical skills. No specialization tracks are offered, but the broad curriculum prepares students for various legal fields.
Miami Dade College Paralegal Program Admission Requirements
To enroll in the Miami Dade College Paralegal Program, applicants must take the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT) unless exempt with prior degrees or adequate FCAT, SAT, or ACT scores. No specific prerequisites beyond general college admission standards are required. Applications are accepted year-round, and candidates must submit high school transcripts or a GED. Advisors at The Law Center guide applicants through course planning to ensure efficient program completion. Contact The Law Center at (305) 237-7813 for advisement.
Program Formats & Schedule
The program is offered primarily in-person at the Wolfson Campus, with general education courses available online or at other campuses (Kendall and North). It supports full-time and part-time schedules, with evening classes to accommodate working students. Most students complete the 64-credit program in two years full-time or three years part-time. New students can start in the fall, spring, or summer semesters, providing flexible entry points. All paralegal-specific courses must be taken at Wolfson, ensuring access to specialized resources.
Faculty Spotlight
The program’s faculty comprises experienced attorneys and legal professionals with deep industry ties. Many instructors are members of the Florida Bar, bringing expertise in areas like criminal law, real estate, and litigation. Their practical experience enriches the curriculum, offering students insights into current legal practices. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students benefit from personalized guidance, fostering strong mentorship opportunities.
Facilities & Resources
Students have access to Miami Dade College’s extensive law library, equipped with legal databases like Westlaw and LexisNexis, critical for research training. The Wolfson Campus features mock courtrooms for simulated legal exercises, enhancing practical learning. The Law Center provides dedicated academic advising, career counseling, and access to paralegal-specific workshops, ensuring comprehensive support throughout the program.
Internship & Field Experience
A hallmark of the program is its integrated internship or co-op requirement. Students not employed in legal settings complete a 20-hour-per-week internship at law firms, legal aid societies, or government agencies, arranged by The Law Center. Those already working in legal roles can opt for a co-op, applying their job experience toward credit. Notable placements include local law firms and the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, providing real-world exposure and networking opportunities.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Miami Dade College Paralegal Program enjoy strong employment prospects, with many securing roles in law firms, corporate legal departments, and government agencies. According to The Bureau of Labor Statistics, paralegal employment is projected to grow 15% from 2016 to 2026, faster than average. The average Paralegal Salary in Miami is approximately $61,664 annually. The program’s career services offer resume workshops, job placement assistance, and connections to local employers, boosting graduate success.
Miami Dade College Paralegal Program Tuition & Financial Information
Tuition for the 64-credit program is affordable, with in-state rates at approximately $118 per credit, totaling around $7,552 for the degree (excluding fees and books). Over 90% of MDC graduates finish debt-free, thanks to robust financial aid options, including FAFSA, grants, and scholarships. Paralegal-specific scholarships are available through The Law Center. Payment plans via Nelnet Campus Commerce allow flexible payment over three months. Visit MDC’s financial aid page for details.
Student Success Stories
- Maria Lopez, a 2023 graduate, landed a paralegal role at a prominent Miami law firm within months of completing her internship. She credits the program’s hands-on training for her success.
- James Carter, a 2021 alumnus, transitioned from a non-legal career to a corporate legal department, leveraging the co-op option. He praises the faculty’s mentorship.
- Testimonial: “The Miami Dade College Paralegal Program gave me the skills and confidence to thrive in a competitive field. The internship was a game-changer!” – Maria Lopez.
Miami Dade College Paralegal Program: How to Apply
To apply, complete the online application at MDC’s admissions page. Submit transcripts and PERT scores (if required) to The Law Center. Schedule an advising session by calling (305) 237-7813 to plan your coursework. After applying, meet with a Law Center advisor for an orientation seminar (DPV 084). Application support is available through MDC’s admissions office or The Law Center.
Contact Information
- Program Coordinator: Contact The Law Center for the current coordinator’s details.
- Department Contact: (305) 237-7813, [email protected]
- Campus Visits: Schedule a visit to the Wolfson Campus at 300 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132.
- Request Information: Submit inquiries via MDC’s Paralegal Studies page.
FAQs
What makes the Miami Dade College Paralegal Program unique?
It’s the only ABA-approved program in Miami-Dade County, offering hands-on internships and affordable tuition.
How long does the Miami Dade College Paralegal Program take to complete?
Full-time students finish in two years, while part-time students typically take three years.
Can I take the Miami Dade College Paralegal Program online?
Paralegal-specific courses are in-person at Wolfson Campus, but general education courses can be taken online or at other campuses.