Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training options are offered, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Tamarac FL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like most prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important issues to consider as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select should be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Tamarac FL law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant schools you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Tamarac FL law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also present a pathway for students to start establishing contacts within the Tamarac FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new field can be difficult without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to choose a paralegal school domiciled in Florida or the state where you want to work after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the area legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the area where you choose to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to first investigate those schools that are within the Tamarac FL region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in price based on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Tamarac FL. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Tamarac FL, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the school you enroll in makes available that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family obligations.