Questions to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Lathrop CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant aspects to research also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Lathrop CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Lathrop CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Lathrop CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it may be a good idea to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be important to establish relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially consider those schools that are within the Lathrop CA region.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Lathrop CA. Naturally if you opt to attend an online school, some of these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Lathrop CA, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose provides that option. Last, find out what the procedure is for making-up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family obligations.