What to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Camarillo CA area, in addition to vocational and trade 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 degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other important aspects to research as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose 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 education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Camarillo CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no prior experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Camarillo CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Camarillo CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid 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? Since laws differ from one state to another, it might be advantageous to select a paralegal school located in California or the state where you want to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to establish relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the community where you wish to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to first investigate those schools that are within the Camarillo CA area.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be accessible to help reduce part of the cost, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Camarillo CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, some of these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Camarillo CA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the program you select offers that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.