Questions to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Now that you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are available, you can start the undertaking of evaluating schools. But since there are so many programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Glendale WI area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many potential students, you will start by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant factors to research also, for instance the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you choose need to be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online education. Accreditation will not only certify 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 as well. Many Glendale WI law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are usually available only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are entering the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the quality of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you choose is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating services can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Glendale WI law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Bear in mind that even when a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also offer a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Glendale WI legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating provide internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School Located? Considering that laws differ from state to state, it might be a good idea to select a paralegal school located in Wisconsin or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to build relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the community where you want to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to first consider those colleges that are within the Glendale WI area.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost based on the credential earned and the length of training furnished. However, 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 assistance may be obtainable to help reduce part of the expense, so be sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Glendale WI. Of course if you decide to attend an online school, a portion these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Glendale WI, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose provides that option. Last, inquire what the process is for making up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family obligations.