Questions to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Littleton CO area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other critical factors to consider as well, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify 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 also. Numerous Littleton CO law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Littleton CO law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the Littleton CO legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Colorado legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it may be beneficial to choose a paralegal school located in Colorado or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be important to build 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 attend classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially consider those schools that are within the Littleton CO area.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be available to help minimize some of the cost, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Littleton CO. Naturally if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Many legal students keep working while obtaining their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Littleton CO, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you enroll in offers that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.