Questions to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can start the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Walnut Creek CA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true when 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 discussed, there are other important factors to consider 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 thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose need to be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Walnut Creek CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several Walnut Creek CA law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also provide a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Walnut Creek CA legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws vary from state to state, it may be beneficial to choose a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you wish to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to initially look at those colleges that are within the Walnut Creek CA region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Walnut Creek CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, some of these added expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Walnut Creek CA, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the school you choose offers that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making-up missed classes because of work, illness or family obligations.