Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Antelope CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other critical aspects to consider 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 programs you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Antelope CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Antelope CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while still in school. They can also present an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Antelope CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws vary from state to state, it may be beneficial to choose a paralegal school located in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be important to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the community where you choose 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 might wish to first investigate those schools that are within the Antelope CA area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential received and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be available to help offset part of the expense, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Antelope CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, some of these added costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many legal students keep working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Antelope 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 select makes available that option. Last, find out what the process is for making-up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.