What to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Red Bluff CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many potential students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant issues to research also, such as 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 investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Red Bluff CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Red Bluff CA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity 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 developing contacts within the Red Bluff CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it may be beneficial to choose a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you wish to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be important to establish relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to receive your education in the area where you choose to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to first consider those colleges that are within the Red Bluff CA region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help minimize some of the expense, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Red Bluff CA. Naturally if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Red Bluff CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in offers that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making-up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.