Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the Moraga CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial factors to consider also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose should be accredited by a reputable 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 focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Moraga CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will need 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 services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Moraga CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Moraga CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it may be a good idea to choose a paralegal school located in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the community where you choose to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to first investigate those colleges that are within the Moraga CA region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost based on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be available to help offset part of the expense, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Moraga CA. Of course if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Moraga CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you choose provides that option. Last, find out what the procedure is for making-up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.