Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can start the process of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Oildale 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 particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important factors to think about also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a reputable organization 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 education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Oildale CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Oildale CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while still in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Oildale CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ among states, it might be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to build relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to initially investigate those schools that are within the Oildale CA region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price based on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be available to help reduce some of the cost, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Oildale CA. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Oildale CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you choose provides that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family emergencies.