Questions to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better idea regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Hudson WI area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like most potential students, you will begin by looking for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other significant issues to think about as well, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final choice.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a reputable accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on distance or online learning. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will obtain will be of the highest quality, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Hudson WI law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are usually available only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are considering. This is of special importance if you are entering the field with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the school you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact some Hudson WI law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Keep in mind that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students an opportunity to experience working in a law office or other legal enterprise while still in school. They can also present an avenue for students to start creating contacts within the Hudson WI legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are evaluating offer internship programs, especially in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will probably want to secure employment quickly after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal schools you are considering have job placement programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have substantial networks and great relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it may be advantageous to select a paralegal school domiciled in Wisconsin or the state where you plan to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be important to establish relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more reason to receive your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, most require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you might want to first look at those schools that are within the Hudson WI region.
How Much is the Total Cost? Paralegal schools can vary in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Don't forget to include the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial assistance may be obtainable to help minimize part of the expense, so be sure to talk to the school's financial aid office to find out what is offered in Hudson WI. Naturally if you choose to attend an online program, a portion these additional expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility to schedule classes. If you can only attend weekend or evening classes near Hudson WI, make certain classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in provides that option. Last, ask what the protocol is for making up classes missed due to sickness, work or family obligations.