Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But considering that there are numerous programs accessible at community and junior colleges in the Woodstock GA area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other important issues to research as well, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select need to be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Woodstock GA law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no prior experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick 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 contact several Woodstock GA law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also offer an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the Woodstock GA legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are evaluating offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are assessing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Georgia legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Since laws vary from state to state, it may be advantageous to select a legal assistant school located in Georgia or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the local legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is all the more justification to receive your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Woodstock GA area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help minimize some of the cost, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Woodstock GA. Of course if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary costs, for instance for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Many legal students keep working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Woodstock GA, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make sure that the program you enroll in provides that option. Last, ask what the process is for making up classes missed due to work, illness or family obligations.