What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Orcutt 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 particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant aspects to consider as well, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over several 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 decision.
Is the Paralegal 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 can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets 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 future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Orcutt CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the program 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 a few Orcutt CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also offer an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the Orcutt CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it might be a good idea to select a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you plan to work after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you desire to practice. 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 consider those colleges that are within the Orcutt CA region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential received and the length of training provided. However, 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 also. Financial assistance might be accessible to help reduce some of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Orcutt CA. Of course if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Orcutt CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in makes available that option. Last, find out what the process is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family obligations.