Questions to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding 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 The Crossings FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other important aspects to consider also, such as 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 properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a highly regarded accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many The Crossings FL law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you choose 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 some The Crossings FL law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while attending school. They can also provide an avenue for students to start developing contacts within the The Crossings FL legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it may be a good idea to enroll in a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you plan to practice after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to first investigate those colleges that are within the The Crossings FL region.
What is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be available to help minimize some of the cost, so make sure to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in The Crossings FL. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near The Crossings FL, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you choose makes available that option. Last, find out what the process is for making up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.