Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Glasgow DE area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate 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 already discussed, there are other critical issues to consider also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select need to be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Glasgow DE law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school 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 several Glasgow DE law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present a means for students to begin establishing contacts within the Glasgow DE legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Delaware legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in Delaware or the state where you want to practice after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to first investigate those colleges that are within the Glasgow DE area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be obtainable to help minimize some of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Glasgow DE. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, some of these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Glasgow DE, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the program you enroll in provides that option. Finally, inquire what the protocol is for making-up missed classes because of work, illness or family obligations.