Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the West Hartford CT area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many potential 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 critical aspects to research as well, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal 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 program, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of West Hartford CT law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several West Hartford CT law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the West Hartford CT legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Connecticut legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws vary among states, it may be beneficial to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Connecticut or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be important to develop relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to obtain your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may wish to first consider those colleges that are within the West Hartford CT region.
How Much is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. 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 as well. Financial assistance may be accessible to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in West Hartford CT. Naturally if you opt to attend an online school, some of these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near West Hartford CT, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you choose provides that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making-up missed classes due to work, illness or family emergencies.