Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Rancho Santa Margarita CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other important factors to think about as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Rancho Santa Margarita CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are often offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Rancho Santa Margarita CA law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while still in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Rancho Santa Margarita CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, 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 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 graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary among states, it might be a good idea to enroll in a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to create relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to first look at those colleges that are within the Rancho Santa Margarita CA region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price depending on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be accessible to help offset part of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Rancho Santa Margarita CA. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Rancho Santa Margarita CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you select provides that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making up classes missed due to sickness, work or family emergencies.