Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Kendall FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate 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 critical factors to research as well, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Kendall FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Kendall FL law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to start establishing contacts within the Kendall FL legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that first job in a new field can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it may be a good idea to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in Florida or the state where you plan to work after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to create relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may wish to first investigate those schools that are within the Kendall FL area.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential earned and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be available to help offset some of the expense, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Kendall FL. Naturally if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these additional costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Kendall FL, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you select provides that option. Finally, inquire what the process is for making up classes missed because of work, illness or family obligations.