Questions to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Arcadia CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other crucial aspects to think about as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a recognized organization 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 learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Arcadia CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Arcadia CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Arcadia CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it may be a good idea to select a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to initially consider those schools that are within the Arcadia CA area.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be accessible to help minimize some of the cost, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Arcadia CA. Of course if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Arcadia CA, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in offers that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.