Points to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Waterford CT area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other critical issues to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Training 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 program, it can also obtain 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 establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Waterford CT law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically available only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Waterford CT law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Waterford CT legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws differ from state to state, it might be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in Connecticut or the state where you wish to work after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to create relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially consider those colleges that are within the Waterford CT area.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in price depending on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be available to help offset some of the expense, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Waterford CT. Of course if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Waterford 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 select offers that option. Last, find out what the process is for making-up classes missed due to sickness, work or family emergencies.