Questions to Ask Paralegal Schools
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Casas Adobes AZ area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant aspects to consider also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Casas Adobes AZ law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically available only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Casas Adobes AZ law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also offer a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Casas Adobes AZ legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without support. 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 large networks and great relationships with Arizona legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it might be a good idea to select a paralegal school located in Arizona or the state where you want to work after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to initially look at those colleges that are within the Casas Adobes AZ area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help offset part of the cost, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Casas Adobes AZ. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Casas Adobes AZ, verify 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 classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.