Questions to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Glendora 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 especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other important aspects to think about as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Glendora CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often available only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Glendora CA law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also present a pathway for students to start establishing contacts within the Glendora CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws vary from state to state, it might be a good idea to enroll in a paralegal school located in California or the state where you want to work after graduating. Also, it will be important to develop relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you desire to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to first look at those schools that are within the Glendora CA region.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, 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 as well. Financial aid may be obtainable to help minimize part of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Glendora CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Glendora CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in provides that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making-up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.