Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the San Jose CA area, in addition to 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 add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant aspects to research also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of San Jose CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several San Jose CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present a means for students to start establishing contacts within the San Jose CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it may be a good idea to choose a paralegal school located in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to create relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you wish to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to initially investigate those schools that are within the San Jose CA region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help offset part of the expense, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in San Jose CA. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near San Jose CA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose offers that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed because of work, illness or family obligations.