Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what training choices are offered, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But considering that there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Mililani Mauka HI area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other critical aspects to research as well, for instance accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are considering so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in should be accredited by a reputable 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 get will be of the highest quality, but it will demonstrate to future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Mililani Mauka HI law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically offered only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact a few Mililani Mauka HI law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Mililani Mauka HI legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without help. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Hawaii legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary among states, it might be a good idea to enroll in a legal assistant school located in Hawaii or the state where you want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the community where you choose to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may wish to first investigate those colleges that are within the Mililani Mauka HI area.
What is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in price depending on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expense for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance may be available to help offset part of the expense, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is available in Mililani Mauka HI. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Mililani Mauka HI, verify 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. Finally, find out what the process is for making-up classes missed because of sickness, work or family emergencies.