What to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the Duarte CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. 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 discussed, there are other significant issues to consider also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select need to be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Duarte CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program 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 several Duarte CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to start creating contacts within the Duarte CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it might be advantageous to choose a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to work after graduation. In addition, it will be important to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the community where you want 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 want to initially consider those schools that are within the Duarte CA area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price based on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help minimize some of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Duarte CA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Duarte CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you enroll in provides that option. Finally, ask what the procedure is for making up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.