Questions to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Yucca Valley CA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical factors to research as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Training 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 can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Yucca Valley CA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Yucca Valley CA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while still in school. They can also present a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Yucca Valley CA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with California legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary from state to state, it may be beneficial to select a paralegal school domiciled in California or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the community where you desire to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to first look at those colleges that are within the Yucca Valley CA area.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in price based on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help minimize some of the expense, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Yucca Valley CA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, some of these added expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Yucca Valley CA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you choose makes available that option. Finally, find out what the protocol is for making-up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.