Questions to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Pleasant Hill CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like most potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical aspects to think about also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a respected accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Pleasant Hill CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually offered only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Pleasant Hill CA law firms that you may be interested 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 could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also offer an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the Pleasant Hill CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it might be advantageous to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to work after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the community where you choose to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Pleasant Hill CA area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help offset part of the expense, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Pleasant Hill CA. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many legal students keep working while receiving their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Pleasant Hill CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose provides that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making-up missed classes due to work, illness or family obligations.