What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Flowing Wells AZ area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other critical aspects to research as well, including 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 considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to be accredited by a respected organization 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 distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Flowing Wells AZ law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program 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 call several Flowing Wells AZ law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Keep 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 Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Flowing Wells AZ legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Arizona legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws vary among states, it might be advantageous to select a legal assistant school located in Arizona or the state where you wish to work after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the area where you wish 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 want to first consider those schools that are within the Flowing Wells AZ region.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help offset part of the cost, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Flowing Wells AZ. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Flowing Wells AZ, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the school you enroll in makes available that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.