Questions to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Santa Maria CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial issues to consider also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Santa Maria CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Santa Maria CA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also offer a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Santa Maria CA legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it might be advantageous to choose a paralegal school located in California or the state where you plan to work after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to establish relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to first consider those colleges that are within the Santa Maria CA region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Santa Maria CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these added expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Numerous legal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Santa Maria CA, verify classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the program you enroll in provides that option. Finally, inquire what the procedure is for making up missed classes because of work, illness or family emergencies.