What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Southglenn CO area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you add 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 commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other important issues to consider also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Southglenn CO law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are often accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Southglenn CO law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin establishing contacts within the Southglenn CO legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Colorado legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws differ among states, it might be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in Colorado or the state where you want to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to create relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most 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 Southglenn CO region.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in price depending on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be accessible to help minimize some of the cost, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Southglenn CO. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online school, some of these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students keep working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Southglenn CO, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose makes available that option. Finally, inquire what the protocol is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family emergencies.