Questions to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Riverview FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like most prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant factors to consider as well, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a reputable organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Riverview FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often offered only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Riverview FL law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even if a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent 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 provide a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Riverview FL legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it might be a good idea to choose a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to build relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more reason to acquire your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might wish to first look at those colleges that are within the Riverview FL region.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be accessible to help minimize some of the cost, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Riverview FL. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Riverview FL, make sure classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you choose provides that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.