Things to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what educational options are offered, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Santa Rosa CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like most prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important aspects to think about also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select need to be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Santa Rosa CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Santa Rosa CA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin developing contacts within the Santa Rosa CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering offer 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 wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their success 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 students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws vary from state to state, it may be beneficial to choose a paralegal school located in California or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be important to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Santa Rosa CA area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be available to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Santa Rosa CA. Naturally if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Many legal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Santa Rosa CA, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you select offers that option. Last, find out what the protocol is for making-up classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.