Things to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Hamden CT area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree 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 discussed, there are other crucial factors to research as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose need to be accredited by a respected accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Hamden CT law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. 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 school you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call several Hamden CT law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also offer a pathway for students to start developing contacts within the Hamden CT legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid 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 students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it may be a good idea to enroll in a paralegal school located in Connecticut or the state where you plan to work after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you desire to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to first look at those schools that are within the Hamden CT area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be accessible to help minimize part of the expense, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Hamden CT. Of course if you choose to attend an online school, some of these added expenses, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Hamden CT, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the school you choose makes available that option. Finally, ask what the procedure is for making-up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.