Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Agoura Hills CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to find out what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other crucial factors to think about as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in need to be accredited by a respected accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify 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 Agoura Hills CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Agoura Hills CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while still in school. They can also provide a means for students to begin developing contacts within the Agoura Hills CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field 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 an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws vary from state to state, it might be advantageous to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to develop relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the community where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to first investigate those colleges that are within the Agoura Hills CA region.
How Much is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price depending on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be obtainable to help offset part of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Agoura Hills CA. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Agoura Hills CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you enroll in provides that option. Finally, ask what the process is for making-up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.