Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what educational options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the San Carlos Park FL area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. 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 already discussed, there are other crucial issues to think about as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools 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 school and program that you pick need to be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous San Carlos Park FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some San Carlos Park FL law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present a pathway for students to start establishing contacts within the San Carlos Park FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid 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 graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Because laws vary among states, it might be advantageous to select a paralegal school located in Florida or the state where you want to work after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the community where you wish to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first investigate those colleges that are within the San Carlos Park FL region.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs 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 education. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be accessible to help reduce some of the cost, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid department to see what is available in San Carlos Park FL. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these added expenses, 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 must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near San Carlos Park FL, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you select offers that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making-up classes missed because of work, illness or family obligations.