Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are offered, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Statesboro GA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other important aspects to research also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you enroll in need to be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Statesboro GA law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are typically available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Research what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are considering. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call some Statesboro GA law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could 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 enterprise while still in school. They can also offer a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Statesboro GA legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing offer internship programs, particularly 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 first job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and good 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 from state to state, it may be advantageous to choose a paralegal school located in Georgia or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to cultivate relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the community where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may want to initially look at those colleges that are within the Statesboro GA region.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost depending on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be accessible to help reduce some of the cost, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to see what is available in Statesboro GA. Needless to say that if you choose to attend an online school, some of these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Statesboro GA, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you choose makes available that option. Last, find out what the protocol is for making-up missed classes due to sickness, work or family obligations.