Things to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the West Park FL area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when 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 commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant issues to think about also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a reputable 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 focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify 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 also. A number of West Park FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact several West Park FL law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also provide a means for students to start establishing contacts within the West Park FL legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and great relationships with Florida legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws vary among states, it may be advantageous to choose a legal assistant school located in Florida or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the community where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to initially consider those colleges that are within the West Park FL area.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include 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 expense, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in West Park FL. Naturally if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while obtaining their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near West Park FL, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you select makes available that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making up missed classes due to work, illness or family obligations.