Questions to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Olympia Heights FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many potential students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other critical factors to consider as well, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose need to be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Olympia Heights FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Olympia Heights FL law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also present an avenue for students to begin creating contacts within the Olympia Heights FL legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary among states, it may be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to create relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the community where you desire to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to initially consider those colleges that are within the Olympia Heights FL region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help offset some of the expense, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Olympia Heights FL. Naturally if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Olympia Heights FL, make sure classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you select provides that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making up classes missed due to sickness, work or family emergencies.