Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Panama City FL area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other crucial aspects to research also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance education. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Panama City FL law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Panama City FL law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what 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 Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while attending school. They can also offer a means for students to start establishing contacts within the Panama City FL legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary from state to state, it may be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school located in Florida or the state where you want to practice after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the community where you wish to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially look at those schools that are within the Panama City FL region.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in cost based on the credential obtained and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be accessible to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Panama City FL. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? A number of paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Panama City FL, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you choose provides that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.