Things to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Maumelle AR area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. 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 previously discussed, there are other crucial aspects to consider also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Maumelle AR law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Maumelle AR law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Maumelle AR legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Arkansas legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it might be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in Arkansas or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary 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 want to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first look at those colleges that are within the Maumelle AR region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, 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 may be available to help reduce some of the cost, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Maumelle AR. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Maumelle AR, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you choose offers that option. Finally, ask what the procedure is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family emergencies.