Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But because there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Smyrna GA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other crucial issues to research as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you pick should be accredited by a highly regarded organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Smyrna GA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no prior experience, since employers will need to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you select is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Smyrna GA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs offer students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also present a means for students to start creating contacts within the Smyrna GA legal community. Ask if the paralegal schools you are assessing provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large 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 Located? Since laws differ among states, it might be a good idea to choose a paralegal school located in Georgia or the state where you wish to work after graduating. Also, it will be important to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to first consider those colleges that are within the Smyrna GA region.
What is the Total Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance might be available to help reduce some of the cost, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is available in Smyrna GA. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, some of these additional costs, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Smyrna GA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the program you enroll in makes available that option. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up missed classes due to work, illness or family obligations.