Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs available at junior and community colleges in the Yucaipa CA area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate 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 looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant factors to research also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
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 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 training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Yucaipa CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Yucaipa CA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also present a means for students to begin establishing contacts within the Yucaipa CA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws vary among states, it might be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to first investigate those colleges that are within the Yucaipa CA area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help offset part of the cost, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Yucaipa CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Yucaipa CA, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you choose provides that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family obligations.