Points to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs available at junior and community colleges in the Cocoa Beach FL area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important factors to think about also, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a respected accrediting agency 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 focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Cocoa Beach FL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often available only for accredited schools.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Cocoa Beach FL law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also offer an avenue for students to start establishing contacts within the Cocoa Beach FL legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws differ among states, it might be beneficial to select a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the community where you choose to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may wish to initially look at those colleges that are within the Cocoa Beach FL region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help offset part of the cost, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Cocoa Beach FL. Naturally if you decide to attend an online program, some of these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Cocoa Beach FL, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose provides that option. Last, ask what the protocol is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.