Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Prescott AZ area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant aspects to research also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School 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 might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Prescott AZ law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Prescott AZ law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to begin developing contacts within the Prescott AZ legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Arizona legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to select a paralegal school located in Arizona or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to receive your education in the area where you wish to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to first look at those colleges that are within the Prescott AZ area.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential received and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be accessible to help offset part of the expense, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Prescott AZ. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, some of these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Prescott AZ, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you enroll in offers that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up classes missed because of work, illness or family emergencies.