Things to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are offered, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Pace FL area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. 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 discussed, there are other crucial aspects to consider also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in need to be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency 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 standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Pace FL law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically available only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Pace FL law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while still in school. They can also offer a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Pace FL legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal programs 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 highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from one state to another, it may be advantageous to enroll in a paralegal school domiciled in Florida or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to build relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to first look at those schools that are within the Pace FL region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be available to help minimize some of the expense, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Pace FL. Naturally if you choose to attend an online school, some of these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Pace FL, verify 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, inquire what the protocol is for making up missed classes due to work, illness or family obligations.