What to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are offered, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Lawrenceville GA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. 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 aspects to think about as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a recognized 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 online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Lawrenceville GA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call some Lawrenceville GA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to start developing contacts within the Lawrenceville GA legal field. 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 upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Georgia legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Because laws differ among states, it may be beneficial to select a paralegal school located in Georgia or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to build relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the area where you choose to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might need to initially consider those colleges that are within the Lawrenceville GA region.
What is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in price depending on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Don't forget to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help offset part of the cost, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Lawrenceville GA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, some of these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Accommodate your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Lawrenceville GA, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the school you choose makes available that option. Last, inquire what the procedure is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family emergencies.