Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the El Cerrito CA area, as well as trade and vocational 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 degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential 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 think about also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program 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 online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous El Cerrito CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several El Cerrito CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin establishing contacts within the El Cerrito CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus 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 necessary to cultivate relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to first consider those colleges that are within the El Cerrito CA region.
How Much is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, 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 also. Financial assistance may be available to help offset part of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in El Cerrito CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, might 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 night or weekend classes near El Cerrito CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the school you choose provides that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.