Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the San Fernando CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other crucial aspects to research as well, such as 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 considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many San Fernando CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often available only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are new to the field 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 pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some San Fernando CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an excellent 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 present a pathway for students to start establishing contacts within the San Fernando CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it may be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you want to work after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to first consider those schools that are within the San Fernando CA area.
How Much is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential received and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget 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 cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in San Fernando CA. Of course if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near San Fernando CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you choose offers that option. Last, find out what the procedure is for making-up classes missed because of sickness, work or family obligations.