Does a career in law appeal to you, but you’re not interested in putting in the time and money needed to become an attorney? If so, the paralegal profession might be right for you. Paralegals play a critical role assisting attorneys in conducting research, file management, client relations, trial preparation, and almost all other aspects of legal practice. With median salaries around $60,000 and long-term job growth at nearly 25%, Texas paralegals are also well-paid and in high demand. This guide introduces you to some of the top on-campus and best online paralegal programs Texas has to offer. It also answers some commonly asked questions, covers potential earnings, and provides some resources for paralegal students. Ready to make the move to become a paralegal professional? Use STEPS’ guide to launch your career in law by earning your degree or certificate through one of the best paralegal programs in Texas.Best Online Paralegal Programs in Texas (TX)
Top Paralegal Certificate in Texas
The quickest and most affordable path to becoming a paralegal is through a certificate program. There are two types of paralegal certificates; a stand-alone certificate available to students without college degrees and an advanced technical certificate that requires an associate or bachelor’s degree for admission. Both types of certificates typically take about a year to complete, but the advanced option may have more on-campus requirements.
Baylor University – Certified Paralegal Certificate
Baylor University’s paralegal certificate course offers a comprehensive program that prepares students for a career in the legal field. Students learn essential skills through courses such as legal research, legal analysis, litigation case management, and criminal law. The curriculum also includes a review (and a voucher) for the Certified Paralegal Exam offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).
The program culminates with a capstone project that focuses on real-world legal experience. For their capstone project, students create a portfolio with documents such as a legal analysis brief, an investigative report, and a client interview checklist,
Duration: Up to 12 months
Mode: 100% online
Cost: $2,795 (includes an exam voucher)
Curriculum:
- The Paralegal in the Legal System
- Paralegal Employment
- On-the-Job Realities and Soft Skills
- Regulations of Paralegals
- Attorney and Paralegal Ethics
- Introduction to the Legal System
- Introduction to Legal Analysis
- Legal Interviewing
- Investigation in a Law Office Advanced
- Litigation Case Management
- Legal Research 101 and Legal Research
- Legal Writing
- Introduction to Law Office Administration
- Tort Law, Product Liability, and Consumer Law
- Contracts, Insurance, and Property Law
- Estates and Family Law
- Laws Affecting Business
- Criminal Law
- NALA Certified Paralegal Exam Preparation
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Best Texan Paralegal Associate Degrees
Paralegal associate degree programs are great for students seeking paralegal employment plus the additional general education coursework that makes them more attractive to employers. They’re also a smart option for those who want to earn a bachelor’s degree but don’t want to wait four years to start working as a paralegal. Most associate paralegal programs require two years of full-time study.
South Texas College – Paralegal A.S.
South Texas College, a public community college, offers a Paralegal Associate of Applied Science program with coursework delivered entirely online, though the culminating practicum course is coordinated with an employer. As with most associate degrees, students complete 60 credit hours of combined general education and major-specific coursework over two years of full-time study.
Admission to STC requires a high school diploma or GED, but students without either may be admitted if they are at least 18 years old and have adequate score results from the Texas Success Initiative Assessment placement exam. Current tuition rates are $164/credit for in-district students, $174/credit for out-of-district Texas residents, and $254/credit for all other U.S. and international students.
Duration: 2 years, 60 credits
Mode: 100% online
Cost: $164-$254/credit, residency-dependent
Curriculum:
- Legal Writing
- Legal Research
- Introduction to the Law & Legal Professions
- Contracts
- Federal Civil Litigation
- Wills, Trust, & Probate Administration
- Torts & Personal Injury Law
- Criminal Law & Procedure
- Real Property
- Texas Civil Litigation
Paralegal Bachelor’s Degrees in TX
Paralegal bachelor’s degree programs serve many purposes. Like certificate and associate degree programs, they prepare students for their first paralegal jobs. They’re also a great way for current paralegals to enhance their job prospects and earn their bachelor’s before continuing to law school.
Paralegal bachelor’s programs typically require around 120 credits of general education and law-related coursework completed over four years of full-time study. Keep in mind that some programs are two-year degree completion programs for students who already have associate degrees or two years of transferable college credits.
East Texas A & M University – B.A./B.S. Paralegal Studies
East Texas A&M University offers paralegal students pursuing bachelor’s degrees both Bachelor of Science (BS) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) options in its Paralegal Studies BA/BS program. Both degrees require 120 credits of general education, including 18 credits in a required minor subject, and major-focused coursework typically completed over four years of full-time study.
BA students must complete 12 credit hours of coursework in a foreign language as part of the general ed requirements. All paralegal students must also complete 160 hours of in-person internships in a program-approved setting such as a private law firm or the District or County Attorney’s office. This four-year program teaches both substantive and procedural law and helps students develop necessary skills such as legal analysis and writing as well as critical thinking and effective communication.
Duration: 4 years, 120 credits
Mode: Hybrid
Cost: $583-$991/credit, residency dependent
Curriculum:
- Civil Procedure
- Torts and Personal Injury Law
- Legal Research
- Introduction to Law
- Law Office Management
- Paralegal Internship
All You Need to Know: Texas Paralegal FAQs
Can I get help paying for my paralegal degree in Texas?
Paying for their education is a major concern for practically all college students, and paralegal programs in Texas are keenly aware of this. That’s why you’ll find the schools offering those programs often provide many scholarships and other financial aid resources for students. Be sure to contact the financial aid office at your school to find out if you’re eligible for funding support. Examples of paralegal programs in Texas offering financial aid help include:
We designed our financial aid and scholarship guides specifically for those who want to work in public service. They provide great information and advice on funding your paralegal program, so be sure to check them out as well.
What degree do you need to become a paralegal in Texas?
It depends. The quickest way to begin a career as a paralegal is through a certificate program. Paralegal certificate programs usually take about one year to complete and prepare students for an entry level role in the legal field. An associate’s degree takes things a step farther, giving paralegal students more advanced knowledge and training in the field. Finally, a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies demonstrates a commitment to learning and offers a strong foundation in legal studies. A bachelor’s degree may be preferable if you’re hoping to work for a prestigious law firm and can often increase salary potential.
Do I need to be certified to work as a paralegal in Texas?
No. Certification is optional in the state of Texas. However, obtaining certification may make you a more attractive candidate to employers and can increase earning potential. You can take the Certified Paralegal exam offered by the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA).
Additionally, the Texas Board of Legal Specialization offers eight areas where paralegals can earn specialization credentials. These specialization areas include bankruptcy, civil trial, criminal, estate planning & probate, family, oil, gas, & mineral, personal injury trial, and real estate.
Are paralegals in high demand?
Job growth for paralegals in Texas, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, is projected at just over 23% between 2020 and 2030. This is nearly double the 12% growth for the nation overall. Job growth for paralegals in Texas is also impacted by where you live as the 2020-2030 job growth estimates from the Texas Workforce Commission for paralegals in four Texas regions indicate.
- Alamo: 30%
- Capital Area: 20.6%
- Dallas: 20.5%
- Southeast Texas: -1.4%
Can I earn my paralegal degree completely online?
Yes. There are many paralegal programs in Texas that are offered completely online. In particular, paralegal certificate programs are often completely remote, allowing students the flexibility to continue working while they pursue their education. There are also online options for associate’s and bachelor’s degrees although some of these programs are hybrid and may require occasionally on-campus time.
Paralegal Salary & Career Path in Texas
| Area | Occupation | 10th Percentile | 90th Percentile | Median |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| U.S. | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $39,710 | $98,830 | $60,970 |
| Texas | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $37,690 | $97,280 | $58,740 |
| Abilene, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $36,630 | $88,840 | $50,140 |
| Amarillo, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $37,760 | $84,760 | $56,450 |
| Austin-Round Rock, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $42,000 | $122,500 | $61,880 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $37,230 | $81,650 | $49,570 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $28,420 | $70,410 | $43,720 |
| College Station-Bryan, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $37,520 | $89,810 | $56,690 |
| Corpus Christi, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $39,100 | $82,620 | $47,860 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $46,590 | $98,710 | $62,760 |
| El Paso, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $37,690 | $71,410 | $46,310 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $38,810 | $98,320 | $59,220 |
| Killeen-Temple, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $36,950 | $80,000 | $47,750 |
| Laredo, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $35,630 | $102,920 | $56,310 |
| Longview, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $36,300 | $80,560 | $52,530 |
| Lubbock, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $28,080 | $76,560 | $46,210 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $21,230 | $60,030 | $37,110 |
| Midland, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $37,890 | $102,260 | $61,700 |
| Odessa, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $39,940 | $87,700 | $58,610 |
| San Angelo, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $36,730 | $76,940 | $47,180 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $39,710 | $86,320 | $60,220 |
| Sherman-Denison, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $29,810 | $78,190 | $43,250 |
| Texarkana, TX-AR | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $35,730 | $71,710 | $49,980 |
| Tyler, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $30,820 | $71,830 | $44,040 |
| Waco, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $38,000 | $81,260 | $56,340 |
| Wichita Falls, TX | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | $37,040 | $80,190 | $46,260 |
Source: Paralegals and Legal Assistants, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area | Occupation | Curr. Jobs | Proj. Jobs | New Jobs | Growth % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | 354,300 | 369,100 | 14,800 | 4.20% |
| Texas | Paralegals and Legal Assistants | 24,730 | 29,470 | 4,740 | 19.20% |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Advance as a Paralegal Professional in Texas
Whether you’re a prospective student or starting your first job as a paralegal, there are many resources geared toward Texas residents in the legal field. From the state’s legal code of ethics to continuing education options, these websites can provide valuable information. They can also offer networking opportunities and a chance for connection within the field.
- State Bar of Texas Paralegal Division
This official website for the Texas State Bar gives comprehensive information on paralegal certification, applicable Bar bylaws and code of ethics, and practically anything else regarding paralegal practice within the state. Student memberships are available. - Texas Alliance of Paralegal Associations (TAPA)
This organization includes over three dozen local paralegal associations in Texas that work to maintain communication among one another and promote the paralegal profession. TAPA sponsors meetings that facilitate an exchange of information on continuing paralegal education, publications, public relations projects, and more. - Texas Bar College
The Texas Bar College is a professional society of lawyers and paralegals “committed to high ethical standards and improved training for all legal professionals.” Associate membership is available to paralegals meeting specific education requirements. - Texas Board of Legal Specialization (TBLS): Board Certified Paralegal
The TBLS is the governing board exclusively authorized by the State Bar of Texas and the Texas Supreme Court to certify paralegals in Texas in seven areas of specialty practice. Its website offers detailed information on the certification application and examination process. - Texas Paralegals Facebook Group
This moderated Facebook group is intended as an online place of support and networking for members of the Texas legal profession. The group is geared specifically toward paralegals and legal assistants, and legal secretaries. In addition to job postings, the group also offers advice, information, and camaraderie.
Top-Rated Online Paralegal Schools in Texas
There are many paralegal programs in Texas vying for your time and money, so to help you identify quality options, we’ve created a ranked list of some of the best schools. To be eligible for our rankings list, schools must be accredited, offer at least one program fully or partially online, and provide academic and career counseling. From the eligible list of schools, we then assigned weights based on criteria such as affordability and student to faculty ratio. For more information on our process, check out our methodology pop up.
Navarro College
Corsicana, Texas
Public
Central Texas College
Killeen, Texas
Public
Amarillo College
Amarillo, Texas
Public
