Questions to Ask Paralegal Colleges
Since you now you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can start the process of evaluating schools. But because there are numerous programs available at junior and community colleges in the Shorewood WI area, in addition to vocational and trade schools, you must learn what questions to ask so that you can compare each one. This is particularly true when you add all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs as well. If you are like many prospective students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already discussed, there are other significant issues to think about also, such as the reputation and accreditation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you need to be asking the schools you are investigating so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your ultimate choice.
Is the Paralegal School and Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick need to be accredited by a respected organization 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 targets online or distance learning. Accreditation will not only certify that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show future employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Shorewood WI law firms will only employ entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Finally, financial assistance and student loans are typically available only for accredited programs.
What's the Reputation of the School? Learn what the reputations and rankings are for the legal assistant schools you are looking at. This is of particular importance if you are new to the field with no previous experience, since employers will have to rely on the quality of your education exclusively. Checking that the program you pick is accredited is a good first step. Checking school rating services can help determine school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also call a few Shorewood WI law firms that you may be interested in working for after graduation and ask what schools they suggest. Bear in mind that even though a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an exceptional reputation.
Does the School Sponsor Internships? Internship programs provide students a chance to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while remaining in school. They can also provide a means for students to begin creating contacts within the Shorewood WI legal community. Find out if the paralegal schools you are reviewing provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering after graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance offered? You will undoubtedly wish to hit the ground running after graduating, but finding that initial job in a new profession can be challenging without assistance. Find out if the paralegal programs you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have sizable networks and good relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also substantiates that their students are well regarded and sought after.
Where is the Campus Located? Since laws differ from one state to another, it may be beneficial to enroll in a paralegal school located in Wisconsin or the state where you want to work after graduating. In addition, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the local legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is even more reason to obtain your education in the community where you want 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 want to first investigate those colleges that are within the Shorewood WI area.
How Much is the Complete Cost? Paralegal programs can vary in price based on the credential obtained and the amount of training provided. However, tuition will not be the only cost for your training. Remember to include the cost of supplies, books and commuting to classes to your budget as well. Financial aid might be obtainable to help offset some of the cost, so make sure to talk to the school's financial aid department to find out what is offered in Shorewood WI. Of course if you decide to attend an online school, some of these additional costs, such as for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? A number of legal students continue working while getting their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can just attend weekend or evening classes near Shorewood WI, make sure classes are offered at those times. Also, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the school you choose offers that option. Finally, ask what the process is for making up missed classes as a result of work, illness or family emergencies.