What to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are offered, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Charleston WV area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is especially true when 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 commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other significant issues to consider as well, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your final decision.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Charleston WV law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are often accessible only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you select is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact several Charleston WV law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Provide Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while still in school. They can also offer an avenue for students to start establishing contacts within the Charleston WV legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will undoubtedly wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but getting that first job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and good relationships with West Virginia legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Considering that laws vary from one state to another, it might be beneficial to select a legal assistant school located in West Virginia or the state where you plan to work after graduation. Also, it will be important to build relationships in the area legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is all the more justification to acquire your education in the community where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to initially consider those schools that are within the Charleston WV region.
How Much is the Entire Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price depending on the credential earned and the length of training provided. 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 aid might be available to help minimize some of the cost, so don't forget to check with the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Charleston WV. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Charleston WV, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, make certain that the program you select offers that option. Last, find out what the process is for making-up missed classes because of sickness, work or family obligations.