Questions to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the North Port FL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important aspects to think about also, 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 considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous North Port FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few North Port FL law offices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even when a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also provide a means for students to start creating contacts within the North Port FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it might be a good idea to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be important to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to first look at those colleges that are within the North Port FL area.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be available to help offset some of the cost, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in North Port FL. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, some of these added costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students keep working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near North Port FL, verify classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you enroll in provides that option. Finally, inquire what the process is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.