Points to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Prunedale 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 include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other important factors to consider also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Prunedale CA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Prunedale CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin developing contacts within the Prunedale CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws differ among states, it may be advantageous to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be important to create relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to initially consider those colleges that are within the Prunedale CA area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost depending on the credential received and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be available to help minimize part of the expense, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Prunedale CA. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Prunedale CA, verify 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 procedure is for making-up classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.