Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs available at junior and community colleges in the Fleming Island FL area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other important issues to consider as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also obtain 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 demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Fleming Island FL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. 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 education exclusively. Verifying that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Fleming Island FL law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also offer a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Fleming Island FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Because laws vary from state to state, it might be beneficial to enroll in a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you want to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be important to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you choose to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Fleming Island FL region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned 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 as well. Financial assistance may be accessible to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Fleming Island FL. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Fleming Island FL, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you select provides that option. Last, inquire what the protocol is for making-up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.