Things to Ask Paralegal Studies Programs
Once you have a better understanding about what paralegals do and what training choices are available, you can begin the undertaking of evaluating schools. But considering that there are numerous programs offered at junior and community colleges in the Platteville WI area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you must find out what questions to ask in order to compare each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like the majority of prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within commuting distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have previously discussed, there are other crucial issues to consider also, including the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over several of the questions you should be asking the schools you are researching so that you can properly vet each one and make your ultimate decision.
Is the Paralegal Program and School Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a respected organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it might also receive accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which focuses on online or distance training. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will obtain will be of the highest standard, but it will demonstrate to potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. A number of Platteville WI law firms will only hire entry level paralegals that are graduates of an accredited school. Also, financial assistance and student loans are often obtainable only for accredited programs.
What's the Program's Reputation? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are entering the field with no previous experience, since employers will need to rely on the quality of your training exclusively. Confirming that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact a few Platteville WI law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduation and ask which schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly ranked, its paralegal program may still have an excellent reputation.
Does the School Offer Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law office or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to start developing contacts within the Platteville WI legal community. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you are most interested in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance provided? You will undoubtedly want to secure employment quickly after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent sign that the schools have sizable networks and great relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also confirms that their students are well regarded and in demand.
Where is the School's Location? Since laws differ from one state to another, it may be advantageous to select a legal assistant school located in Wisconsin or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be important to establish relationships in the local legal community, perhaps through an internship program. This is even more reason to acquire your education in the area where you want to practice. Also, if you attend classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that live outside of their districts. So you might want to first consider those colleges that are within the Platteville WI region.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can differ in cost depending on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. 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 also. Financial aid may be obtainable to help minimize some of the cost, so make sure to contact the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Platteville WI. Needless to say that if you opt to attend an online program, a portion these supplementary expenses, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Accommodate your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Platteville WI, make sure classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you choose makes available that option. Finally, ask what the protocol is for making up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family obligations.