Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Wilmington DE area, in addition to vocational and trade 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 degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other important factors to consider also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education 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 Wilmington DE law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, 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 legal assistant schools you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Wilmington DE law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Wilmington DE legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Delaware legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it might be advantageous to choose a legal assistant school domiciled in Delaware or the state where you want to work after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to initially investigate those schools that are within the Wilmington DE region.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be available to help reduce some of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Wilmington DE. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, some of these additional costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Wilmington 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 choose offers that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family emergencies.