Points to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Pueblo CO area, in addition to trade and vocational 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 certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like many prospective 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 aspects to think about as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency 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 education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Pueblo CO law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically offered only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no prior experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Pueblo CO law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also offer a means for students to begin establishing contacts within the Pueblo CO legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large 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 Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it may be advantageous to choose a legal assistant school located in Colorado or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to first investigate those colleges that are within the Pueblo CO region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be available to help reduce some of the cost, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Pueblo CO. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Pueblo CO, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in makes available that option. Finally, find out what the protocol is for making-up classes missed because of work, illness or family obligations.