Points to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Dalton GA area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs also. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical issues to think about as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also obtain accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Dalton GA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically accessible only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Dalton GA law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also offer a means for students to begin establishing contacts within the Dalton GA legal field. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will probably want to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Georgia legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it may be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school located in Georgia or the state where you plan to work after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the local legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you want 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 investigate those schools that are within the Dalton GA region.
What is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential earned and the amount of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid may be available to help minimize part of the cost, so don't forget to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Dalton GA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, some of these added expenses, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Dalton GA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose provides that option. Finally, find out what the protocol is for making-up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family obligations.