Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Chico CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like most prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical aspects to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in need to be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Chico CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often available only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Chico CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also provide a means for students to start creating contacts within the Chico CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it may be beneficial to choose a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to build relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first look at those schools that are within the Chico CA area.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in price depending on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be accessible to help minimize some of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Chico CA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Chico CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in makes available that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making up classes missed because of work, illness or family obligations.