Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Jonesboro AR area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other crucial factors to research also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Jonesboro AR law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the program you pick 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 call several Jonesboro AR law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Jonesboro AR legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Arkansas legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Because laws differ from one state to another, it may be beneficial to enroll in a legal assistant school located in Arkansas or the state where you want to work after graduating. Also, it will be important to build relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to first look at those schools that are within the Jonesboro AR region.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be available to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Jonesboro AR. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Jonesboro AR, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the school you select provides that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family emergencies.