Points to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can start the process of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Northglenn CO area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can compare 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 begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other crucial factors to research also, such as accreditation and the reputation 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 thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in should be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also receive 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 get will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Northglenn CO law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Northglenn CO law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Northglenn CO legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs 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 undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Colorado legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to enroll in a paralegal school located in Colorado or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to build relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the area where you desire to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to first look at those colleges that are within the Northglenn CO region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be obtainable to help offset some of the cost, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Northglenn CO. Naturally if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Northglenn CO, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you choose provides that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making-up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.