Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Turlock CA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant factors to research as well, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Turlock CA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Turlock CA law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to start developing contacts within the Turlock CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ among states, it may be advantageous to choose a legal assistant school located in California or the state where you plan to work after graduation. In addition, it will be important to establish relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first consider those colleges that are within the Turlock CA area.
How Much is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be accessible to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Turlock CA. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, some of these added costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Turlock CA, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose makes available that option. Finally, inquire what the procedure is for making-up missed classes because of work, illness or family obligations.