Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Tolland CT area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial factors to research also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can 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 receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Tolland CT law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Tolland CT law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also offer an avenue for students to begin establishing contacts within the Tolland CT legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable 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's Location? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it may be advantageous to choose a paralegal school located in Connecticut or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to first consider those colleges that are within the Tolland CT area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help reduce some of the cost, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Tolland CT. Naturally if you opt to attend an online school, a portion these added costs, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Tolland CT, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you choose provides that option. Last, find out what the procedure is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.