What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Florence AZ area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like many potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other critical factors to think about also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Florence AZ law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Florence AZ law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also offer an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Florence AZ legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job placement 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 confirms that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary among states, it might be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school located in Arizona or the state where you plan to work after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to establish relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain 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 might want to first look at those schools that are within the Florence AZ area.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential received and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help offset some of the expense, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Florence AZ. Naturally if you choose to attend an online school, some of these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Florence AZ, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you select makes available that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making-up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family obligations.