Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the Cheshire CT area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can 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 potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant issues to consider also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Cheshire CT law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often available only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Cheshire CT law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to start creating contacts within the Cheshire CT legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it may be beneficial to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in Connecticut or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to establish relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to first investigate those colleges that are within the Cheshire CT area.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Cheshire CT. Of course if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students keep working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Cheshire CT, make certain classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you select makes available that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making-up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.