Things to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the East Windsor CT area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most prospective 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 critical aspects to think about also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous East Windsor CT law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. 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 school you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some East Windsor CT law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also offer a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the East Windsor CT legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it might be advantageous to select a legal assistant school located in Connecticut or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be important to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through 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, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to initially look at those colleges that are within the East Windsor CT area.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential received and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be obtainable to help reduce part of the cost, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in East Windsor CT. Of course if you decide to attend an online program, some of these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near East Windsor CT, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you choose provides that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family obligations.