What to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the El Cajon CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. 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 already covered, there are other important aspects to research also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can properly 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 accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee 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 El Cajon CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several El Cajon CA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while still in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the El Cajon CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws differ among states, it might be beneficial to select a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you want to work after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to initially consider those colleges that are within the El Cajon CA region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price based on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be accessible to help reduce part of the expense, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in El Cajon CA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, some of these added expenses, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while getting their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near El Cajon CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose makes available that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making-up classes missed due to work, illness or family emergencies.