What to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the East Hartford CT area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like most potential students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other important factors to research also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select need to be accredited by a respected organization 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 learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many East Hartford CT law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several East Hartford CT law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also provide a means for students to begin creating contacts within the East Hartford CT legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it may be beneficial to select a legal assistant school located in Connecticut or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to build relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to first investigate those colleges that are within the East Hartford CT area.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in price based on the credential earned and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be accessible to help reduce part of the cost, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in East Hartford CT. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near East Hartford CT, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the school you enroll in offers that option. Last, find out what the protocol is for making up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.