Things to Ask Paralegal Programs
Now that you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic choices are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at community and junior colleges in the Manitowoc WI area, as well as vocational and trade schools, you need to learn what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is especially true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of potential students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously covered, there are other significant issues to think about as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at a few of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal Training Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select need to be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency 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 online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. A number of Manitowoc WI law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are typically obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Learn what the rankings and reputations are for the paralegal schools you are looking at. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating services can help confirm school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also contact some Manitowoc WI law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program could still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal enterprise while remaining in school. They can also offer a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Manitowoc WI legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will most likely want to hit the ground running after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing have job assistance programs and what their success rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and sought after.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws differ among states, it may be advantageous to enroll in a legal assistant school located in Wisconsin or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. In addition, it will be valuable to establish relationships in the neighboring legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more justification to acquire your education in the community where you wish to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might need to first look at those schools that are within the Manitowoc WI region.
How Much is the Total Expense? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential received and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only expenditure for your education. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be available to help minimize some of the expense, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Manitowoc WI. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, some of these added expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Class Times Fit your Schedule? Numerous legal students continue working while getting their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can only attend night or weekend classes near Manitowoc WI, make sure classes are available at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part time basis, confirm that the school you enroll in provides that option. Finally, inquire what the procedure is for making up missed classes as a result of sickness, work or family obligations.