Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Knik Fairview AK area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many potential students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant aspects to think about as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Knik Fairview AK law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Knik Fairview AK law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the Knik Fairview AK legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Alaska legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws differ from one state to another, it may be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in Alaska or the state where you want to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially investigate those schools that are within the Knik Fairview AK region.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be accessible to help reduce some of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Knik Fairview AK. Of course if you opt to attend an online program, some of these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Knik Fairview AK, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose offers that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up missed classes due to work, illness or family emergencies.