Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Magalia CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true when 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 already covered, there are other important factors to research also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a highly regarded 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 distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Magalia CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often offered only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Magalia CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also present a means for students to start creating contacts within the Magalia CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws differ from state to state, it may be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you want to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to build relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to initially investigate those schools that are within the Magalia CA region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help minimize part of the cost, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Magalia CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Magalia 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 select offers that option. Finally, inquire what the protocol is for making-up classes missed because of work, illness or family emergencies.