Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Claremont CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other critical factors to consider as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also obtain 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 obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Claremont CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Claremont CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Bear 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 Provide Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also present a means for students to start creating contacts within the Claremont CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it may be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school located in California or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to first investigate those schools that are within the Claremont CA area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be available to help minimize part of the cost, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Claremont CA. Of course if you decide to attend an online school, some of these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Claremont CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you select offers that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making up classes missed because of sickness, work or family obligations.