Things to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the New Britain CT area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate 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 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 aspects to think about also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many New Britain CT law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few New Britain CT law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also offer an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the New Britain CT legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success 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 highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it might be a good idea to select a legal assistant school domiciled in Connecticut or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to establish relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the community where you wish to work. 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 wish to initially investigate those colleges that are within the New Britain CT region.
How Much is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be available to help offset some of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in New Britain CT. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, some of these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near New Britain CT, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you select offers that option. Finally, ask what the procedure is for making up classes missed because of sickness, work or family emergencies.