Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Makakilo HI area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to find out what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. If you are like many prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial factors to consider also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can effectively vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a recognized organization 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 focuses on distance or online training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Many Makakilo HI law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the Program? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no previous experience, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Makakilo HI law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal operation while still in school. They can also provide a pathway for students to start establishing contacts within the Makakilo HI legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Hawaii legal services employers. It also substantiates that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it may be a good idea to select a paralegal school domiciled in Hawaii or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to develop relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to receive your education in the area where you wish 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 Makakilo HI area.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only cost for your education. Remember to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid may be accessible to help minimize some of the expense, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Makakilo HI. Naturally if you decide to attend an online school, some of these additional expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while getting their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Makakilo HI, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you select makes available that option. Last, find out what the process is for making-up classes missed as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.