Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Pueblo West CO area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant factors to research also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select should be accredited by a recognized 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 targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Pueblo West 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 obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are new to the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Pueblo West CO law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the Pueblo West CO legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, specifically 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 secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job assistance 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 corroborates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it might be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in Colorado or the state where you wish to work after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to first consider those colleges that are within the Pueblo West CO area.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price based on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. Having said that, 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 assistance might be obtainable to help minimize part of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Pueblo West CO. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Pueblo West CO, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose provides that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family emergencies.