Questions to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Alum Rock CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must find out 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 also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant issues to think about as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also obtain 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 get will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Alum Rock CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Alum Rock CA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Alum Rock CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing 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 probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out 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 sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws vary from state to state, it might be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you wish to work after graduating. In addition, it will be important to create relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the community where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to first investigate those schools that are within the Alum Rock CA area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help offset some of the expense, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Alum Rock CA. Of course if you opt to attend an online school, some of these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Alum Rock CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose offers that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.