Things to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational options are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Allouez WI area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many prospective students, you will begin by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other crucial issues to think about also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you should be asking the programs you are investigating so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a highly regarded 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 help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Allouez WI law firms will only employ entry level paralegals that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the profession with no prior work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Confirming that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact a few Allouez WI law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask which schools they recommend. Keep in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also present a means for students to begin developing contacts within the Allouez WI legal field. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely wish to hit the ground running after graduation, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. 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 a good indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Because laws vary from one state to another, it might be a good idea to select a legal assistant school located in Wisconsin or the state where you wish to work after graduation. In addition, it will be valuable to build relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the area where you wish to practice. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most charge a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might wish to first consider those schools that are within the Allouez WI area.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training provided. Having said that, 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 also. Financial assistance might be accessible to help offset part of the cost, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid department to see what is offered in Allouez WI. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, some of these added expenses, such as for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while obtaining their training and require flexibility to schedule classes. If you can just attend night or weekend classes near Allouez WI, verify classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the program you select makes available that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making up missed classes because of work, illness or family obligations.