Questions to Ask Paralegal Schools
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Davis CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant 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 need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Davis CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Davis CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to begin establishing contacts within the Davis CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary from state to state, it may be a good idea to choose a paralegal school located in California or the state where you plan to work after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the community where you choose to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially consider those schools that are within the Davis CA region.
How Much is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be accessible to help offset part of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Davis CA. Naturally if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while getting their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Davis CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you enroll in makes available that option. Last, find out what the process is for making-up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.