Questions to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Enfield CT area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial factors to think about also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in need to 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 targets online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Enfield CT law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Enfield CT law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also offer an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the Enfield CT legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing 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 probably want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it may be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school located in Connecticut or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to build relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more reason to receive your education in the area where you wish 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 consider those schools that are within the Enfield CT region.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. Having said that, 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 assistance might be obtainable to help reduce some of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Enfield CT. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Enfield CT, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the school you select makes available that option. Finally, ask what the procedure is for making-up missed classes because of work, illness or family emergencies.