Things to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Folsom CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. 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 consider as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over 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 ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Folsom CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Folsom CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Folsom CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely want 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 considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary among states, it might be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you choose to practice. 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 want to initially investigate those schools that are within the Folsom CA region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential earned and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help reduce some of the cost, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Folsom CA. Of course if you choose to attend an online school, some of these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Folsom CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in provides that option. Last, ask what the protocol is for making up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.