Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the Garden Grove CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other important aspects to research as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose need to be accredited by a respected accrediting agency 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 focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Garden Grove CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Garden Grove CA law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also present a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Garden Grove CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing 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 confirms that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary among states, it might be a good idea to enroll in 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 neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to initially look at those colleges that are within the Garden Grove CA region.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential received and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help minimize some of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Garden Grove CA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, some of these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match 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 Garden Grove CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose offers that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed because of work, illness or family obligations.