Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs available at junior and community colleges in the Parker CO area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to find out what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other crucial factors to think about also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Parker CO law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Parker CO law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin developing contacts within the Parker CO legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Colorado legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws vary among states, it might be advantageous to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in Colorado or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to first consider those schools that are within the Parker CO region.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be available to help offset part of the expense, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Parker CO. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many legal students keep working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Parker CO, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in provides that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.