Points to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs available at junior and community colleges in the Montrose CO area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like most potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical aspects to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Montrose CO law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically available only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are new to the field with no prior experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school 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 call several Montrose CO law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Montrose CO legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable 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 one state to another, it may be a good idea to choose a paralegal school located in Colorado or the state where you want to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to first investigate those schools that are within the Montrose CO region.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be accessible to help reduce some of the cost, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Montrose CO. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these additional costs, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Montrose CO, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you select provides that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.