Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But since there are numerous programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Weston FL area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly 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 begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other critical factors to consider as well, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose should be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Weston FL law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program 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 call several Weston FL law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even when a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Provide Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present an avenue for students to start establishing contacts within the Weston FL legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting 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 placement 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 substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Because laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to enroll in a legal assistant school domiciled in Florida or the state where you wish to work after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to build relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the area where you choose to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to initially look at those schools that are within the Weston FL area.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost based on the credential obtained 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 assistance might be obtainable to help minimize some of the expense, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Weston FL. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these added costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Weston FL, verify classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the program you select makes available that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making up missed classes because of work, illness or family emergencies.