Questions to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Cantonment FL area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. 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 important aspects to think about also, such as 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 considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Cantonment FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial aid and student loans are often offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn 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 prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact several Cantonment FL law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also present a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Cantonment FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering offer 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 wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Because laws vary from one state to another, it may be beneficial to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you wish to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to initially consider those colleges that are within the Cantonment FL region.
How Much is the Entire Cost? 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 training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be available to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Cantonment FL. Of course if you choose to attend an online school, some of these additional costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Cantonment FL, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose offers that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.