Questions to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Ledyard CT area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn 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 many prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant aspects to think about as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a respected 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 distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Ledyard CT law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Ledyard CT law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide a means for students to start creating contacts within the Ledyard CT legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good 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 Campus Located? Since laws differ among states, it may be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in Connecticut or the state where you want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the community where you want to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to initially consider those colleges that are within the Ledyard CT region.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help minimize part of the cost, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Ledyard CT. Naturally if you choose to attend an online program, some of these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of paralegal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Ledyard CT, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the school you enroll in makes available that option. Last, find out what the procedure is for making-up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.