Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Anniston AL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant factors to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick need to be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Anniston AL law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several Anniston AL law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also present an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the Anniston AL legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Alabama legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary among states, it might be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in Alabama or the state where you wish to work after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to create relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you wish to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially investigate those schools that are within the Anniston AL area.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be available to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Anniston AL. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Anniston AL, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you choose provides that option. Last, find out what the protocol is for making-up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family obligations.