What to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can begin the process of evaluating schools. But considering that there are so many programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Onalaska WI area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree 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 already discussed, there are other important issues to think about as well, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's take a look at several of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you select should be accredited by a respected accrediting agency such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online school, it might also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will receive will be of the highest standard, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Many Onalaska WI law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited school. Finally, financial aid and student loans are often offered only for accredited programs.
What's the School's Reputation? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact a few Onalaska WI law practices that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Remember that even though a school is not the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the Program Offer Internships? Internship programs give students a chance to experience working in a law firm or other legal operation while attending school. They can also present a pathway for students to start establishing contacts within the Onalaska WI legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are reviewing provide internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be difficult without support. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good indication that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also confirms that their graduates are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Because 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. Also, it will be valuable to create relationships in the neighboring legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the area where you desire to work. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require a higher tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may wish to first investigate those colleges that are within the Onalaska WI region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in cost based on the credential obtained and the length of training furnished. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial assistance might be obtainable to help offset some of the cost, so don't forget to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Onalaska WI. Needless to say that if you decide to attend an online program, some of these added expenses, such as for commuting, may be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Many paralegal students continue working while receiving their training and must have flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Onalaska WI, make certain classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make sure that the school you select makes available that option. Finally, ask what the procedure is for making up missed classes due to sickness, work or family emergencies.