What to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Dixiana AL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other crucial aspects to research also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Dixiana AL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the program 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 call a few Dixiana AL law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin developing contacts within the Dixiana AL legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Alabama legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it might be advantageous to select a paralegal school located in Alabama or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be important to establish relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to initially consider those schools that are within the Dixiana AL area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be available to help reduce part of the cost, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Dixiana AL. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, some of these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Dixiana AL, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you select provides that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making-up missed classes because of work, illness or family emergencies.