Points to Ask Paralegal Schools
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Northridge CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other critical issues to consider as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Northridge CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Northridge CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Northridge CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it may be advantageous to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the community where you choose to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially look at those schools that are within the Northridge CA area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost depending on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be available to help offset part of the cost, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Northridge CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Northridge CA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose makes available that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making-up classes missed due to sickness, work or family emergencies.