Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Antioch CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant factors to research as well, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Antioch 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 programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no prior experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Antioch CA law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer 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 start establishing contacts within the Antioch CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication 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 Located? Because laws differ from one state to another, it might be beneficial to enroll in a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. Also, it will be important to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially investigate those schools that are within the Antioch CA region.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in price based on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Antioch CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Antioch CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you select provides that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.