Questions to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training options are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Apollo Beach FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant issues to consider as well, 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 programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a respected organization 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 education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Apollo Beach FL law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often offered only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are looking at. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no prior experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Apollo Beach FL law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also offer a means for students to start creating contacts within the Apollo Beach FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial 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 placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it may be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in Florida or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to create relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to obtain your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to initially look at those schools that are within the Apollo Beach FL region.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in price based on the credential received and the length of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help minimize some of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Apollo Beach FL. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Apollo Beach FL, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the school you enroll in provides that option. Last, find out what the protocol is for making up classes missed due to sickness, work or family emergencies.