If you want a great education at a great price, then come to Alvin Community College . We're far less expensive than online schools, for-profit schools, and universities. And, more importantly, the PARALEGAL PROGRAM is accredited by the two most significant accrediting agencies for colleges – the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Learn more about accreditation at www.sacscos.org/about.asp .
Paralegal courses are taught by attorneys who know the level of knowledge and skills employers expect from paralegals in the field. Each course is evaluated annually so the curriculum reflects the most current education and skills required by the legal profession.
If you want a college that will work with you, guide you, mentor you, and be there for you – then look no further than ACC. We're here to help you have a better life and a rewarding career.
> Faculty
Associate of Applied Science Degree – 2 years
Paralegal……………..68 credit hours
This includes an internship program.
Certificate – 1 year
Paralegal ………..........40 credit hours
This includes an internship program.
By attending a community college, you have choices that you may not find in other types of schools. Our one year certificate program is great if you want to focus your attention on legal studies and start working as quickly as possible. Or, you can receive an Associate Degree as a Paralegal in our two year program. If you want to transfer to a 4-year university, you have the option of transferring to the University of Houston – Victoria campus in SugarLand.
Students can transfer all Paralegal coursework from ACC toward a 4-year degree at the University of Houston Victoria campus in SugarLand. At the SugarLand campus, you'll earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing, General Business, Biology, Psychology, or Computer Information Systems. If you choose the Marketing or General Business degree, you can take your courses online.
Get the skills you can use immediately as a Paralegal, and continue working toward your 4-year degree. It's a great combination!
• Work as a Paralegal earning a good income while completing your junior and senior years at UH-Victoria in SugarLand.
• Save at least 1/3 the cost of attending a university for four years.
• Receive one-on-one attention at ACC and ease the transition to a university.
A Paralegal plays an important role in the legal office. Under the supervision of an attorney, paralegals perform a wide variety of duties. They often help attorneys prepare for hearings, trials, closings and corporate meetings. Paralegals also assist in identifying appropriate laws, judicial decisions, legal articles and other material that are relevant to assigned cases. ACC educates students regarding legal terminology, research and investigation, document drafting, litigation, and computer and organizational skills. The program focuses on providing students with the education and skills they need to be an asset in a law firm. When students graduate, they feel prepared and confident about their skills and knowledge.
The reputation of ACC's Paralegal Program in the legal community has helped open many doors for new graduates. Paralegals are employed in all types of organizations including law firms, corporations, banks, insurance companies, federal, state, and local governments, legal aid organizations and more. Litigation, personal injury, corporate, criminal, and family law practices are just some of the areas where our graduates are employed. According to the U.S. Labor Statistics, paralegals are projected to rank among the fastest growing occupations through 2010. The need for persons to assist the legal profession has expanded greatly with population increases and the growing demand for legal services. Starting salaries typically range typically from $24,000-$30,000 a year, depending on experience and location of job.
For more information about starting your career as a Paralegal, call 281.756.3642 or email paralegal@alvincollege.edu.
Alvin Community College
3110 Mustang Road • Alvin, TX 77511
281.756.3500
For accommodations: 281.756.3531
TDD: 281.756.3845
