Points to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Arvada CO 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 when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important aspects to think about as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School and Program 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 program, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Arvada CO law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Arvada CO law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while still in school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Arvada CO legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing 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 great relationships with Colorado legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it might be advantageous to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in Colorado or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially consider those colleges that are within the Arvada CO region.
How Much is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Arvada CO. Naturally if you choose to attend an online school, some of these added expenses, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Arvada CO, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you choose provides that option. Finally, find out what the protocol is for making up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family obligations.