Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the Jacksonville Beach FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant aspects to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation 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 ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Jacksonville Beach FL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Jacksonville Beach FL law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to start developing contacts within the Jacksonville Beach FL legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will probably wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial 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 Located? Because laws differ among states, it might be advantageous to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first investigate those colleges that are within the Jacksonville Beach FL area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, 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 might be obtainable to help reduce some of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Jacksonville Beach FL. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, a portion these added expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Jacksonville Beach FL, make sure classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you choose offers that option. Finally, find out what the protocol is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family obligations.