Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Colchester CT area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can 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 covered, 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 a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency 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 focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Colchester CT law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Colchester CT law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even when a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin establishing contacts within the Colchester CT legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Because laws vary from state to state, it may be a good idea to select a legal assistant school domiciled in Connecticut or the state where you wish to work after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you wish to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to initially look at those schools that are within the Colchester CT region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Colchester CT. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Many legal students keep working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Colchester CT, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you select offers that option. Finally, inquire what the protocol is for making-up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.