Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Buford GA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other critical factors to consider also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a recognized 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 targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Buford GA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Investigate what the rankings and reputations are for the legal assistant programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Buford GA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin establishing contacts within the Buford GA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will most likely want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Georgia legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ among states, it may be beneficial to select a paralegal school domiciled in Georgia or the state where you want to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to create relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may need to first investigate those schools that are within the Buford GA area.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be available to help reduce part of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Buford GA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Buford GA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you enroll in offers that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making-up classes missed because of work, illness or family emergencies.