Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the San Gabriel CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to find out what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most prospective 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 important aspects to think about also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a respected accrediting agency 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 help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many San Gabriel CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several San Gabriel CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember 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 give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also offer a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the San Gabriel CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Because laws differ from state to state, it may be advantageous to choose a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to work after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to obtain your education in the community where you wish to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to first consider those colleges that are within the San Gabriel CA region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential received and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help reduce part of the cost, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in San Gabriel CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near San Gabriel CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you choose makes available that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up missed classes due to work, illness or family obligations.