Questions to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Tulare CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like many 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 critical issues to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Tulare CA law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Tulare CA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even if 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 provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to begin developing contacts within the Tulare CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ among states, it might be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school located in California or the state where you want to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to build relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the area where you wish to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first investigate those colleges that are within the Tulare CA region.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be accessible to help minimize some of the expense, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Tulare CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while obtaining their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Tulare CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you choose offers that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.