Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are numerous programs available at community and junior colleges in the Waipio HI area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to know what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other important aspects to think about also, for instance the reputation and accreditation 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 ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it may also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets 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 future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Waipio HI law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Waipio HI law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide an avenue for students to begin establishing contacts within the Waipio HI legal field. Ask if the paralegal schools you are considering offer internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help provided? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Hawaii legal services employers. It also corroborates that their graduates are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws differ from state to state, it might be advantageous to choose a paralegal school located in Hawaii or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. Also, it will be necessary to build relationships in the neighboring 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 go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first consider those schools that are within the Waipio HI area.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. Having said that, 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 aid might be accessible to help offset part of the expense, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Waipio HI. Of course if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these additional expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Match your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Waipio HI, verify classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the school you enroll in offers that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making-up missed classes because of work, illness or family obligations.