Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Sunrise 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 the majority of prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant factors to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose need to be accredited by a respected organization 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 targets distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Sunrise FL law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Sunrise FL law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the Sunrise FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are evaluating provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new field can be challenging without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary among states, it might be beneficial to select a legal assistant school domiciled in Florida or the state where you want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to establish 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 wish to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to initially investigate those schools that are within the Sunrise FL region.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential earned and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Sunrise FL. Of course if you choose to attend an online school, some of these added expenses, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Sunrise FL, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in provides that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making-up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.