Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Cudahy CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important factors to consider also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Cudahy CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Cudahy CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also offer an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Cudahy CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid 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 sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws vary among states, it may be advantageous to select a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to establish relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to initially investigate those schools that are within the Cudahy CA area.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, 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 as well. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help offset some of the expense, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Cudahy CA. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Cudahy CA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you select offers that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family obligations.