Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Downey 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 many prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other important factors to consider as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency 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 education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Downey CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no prior experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Downey CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also offer a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Downey CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it may be a good idea to select a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be important to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to first consider those schools that are within the Downey CA area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential received and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be accessible to help offset part of the expense, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Downey CA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Downey CA, verify classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you choose makes available that option. Finally, inquire what the process is for making-up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family obligations.