Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can start the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs available at junior and community colleges in the Grand Chute WI area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must learn what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when 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 driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other important factors to consider also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over 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 ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you enroll in need to be accredited by a respected accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with future employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Grand Chute WI law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial assistance and student loans are usually offered only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are considering. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call several Grand Chute WI law offices that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask which schools they recommend. Remember that even if 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 provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law firm or other legal establishment while still in school. They can also present a pathway for students to start developing contacts within the Grand Chute WI legal community. Find out if the paralegal programs you are assessing offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Help available? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new field can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. Rapid and high placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Since 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 want to work after graduation. In addition, it will be necessary to develop relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to obtain your education in the community where you desire 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 want to initially investigate those colleges that are within the Grand Chute WI region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your training. Don't forget to add the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be available to help offset some of the expense, so be sure to check with the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Grand Chute WI. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online school, some of these additional costs, such as for commuting, might be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Match your Schedule? A number of legal students keep working while obtaining their training and must have flexibility to schedule classes. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Grand Chute WI, make certain classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you choose offers that option. Last, find out what the process is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.