Things to Ask Paralegal Schools
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Manchester CT area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to find out what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant aspects to consider also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Manchester CT law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically offered 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 special importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will need to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Manchester CT law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin developing contacts within the Manchester CT legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws vary from one state to another, it might be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in Connecticut or the state where you wish to work after graduating. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the community where you desire 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 wish to first investigate those schools that are within the Manchester CT region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost based on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help reduce part of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Manchester CT. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Manchester CT, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you choose provides that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.