Questions to Ask Paralegal Schools
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Peachtree Corners GA area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you must know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most prospective students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant issues to research also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you choose 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 training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Peachtree Corners GA law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? 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 profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact several Peachtree Corners GA law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal operation while remaining in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to begin creating contacts within the Peachtree Corners GA legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Georgia legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ among states, it may be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in Georgia or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be valuable to create relationships in the local legal community, perhaps by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to obtain your education in the area where you choose to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you may want to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Peachtree Corners GA area.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential earned and the length of training provided. 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 as well. Financial assistance 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 Peachtree Corners GA. Naturally if you choose to attend an online school, some of these additional expenses, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Peachtree Corners GA, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you select makes available that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.