Points to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Once you have a better understanding regarding what paralegals do and what academic options are available, you can start the process of assessing schools. But because there are so many programs accessible at junior and community colleges in the Suamico WI area, in addition to trade and vocational schools, you need to learn what questions to ask in order to evaluate each one. This is especially true if you add all of the online paralegal certificate and degree programs as well. 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 previously discussed, there are other critical issues to consider also, including accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over some of the questions you should be asking the programs you are researching so that you can effectively vet each one and make your ultimate selection.
Is the Paralegal Program Accredited? The paralegal program and school that you pick should be accredited by a reputable 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 education. Accreditation will not only certify that the education you will get will be of the highest standard, but it will establish with potential employers that you are a qualified professional also. Numerous Suamico WI law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that have graduated from an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are often available only for accredited schools.
What's the School's Reputation? Investigate what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of special importance if you are new to the profession with no previous work history, since employers will have to make a decision based on the caliber of your education exclusively. Verifying that the school you pick is accredited is an excellent first step. Checking school rating services can help confirm school rankings and quality of education as well. You can also contact a few Suamico WI law firms that you may have an interest in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the School Offer 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 present a pathway for students to start creating contacts within the Suamico WI legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are reviewing offer internship programs, specifically in areas of the law that you have the most interest in entering upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Help offered? You will undoubtedly want to hit the ground running after graduation, but finding that first job in a new profession can be difficult without assistance. Ask if the paralegal programs you are considering have job placement programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are a good sign that the schools have large networks and good relationships with Wisconsin legal services employers. It also corroborates that their students are highly regarded and in demand.
Where is the School Located? Because laws differ among states, it may be a good idea to choose a paralegal school located in Wisconsin or the state where you wish to practice after graduating. Also, it will be valuable to establish relationships in the area legal community, possibly by means of an internship program. This is all the more reason to obtain your education in the area where you wish to work. 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 initially consider those schools that are within the Suamico WI area.
How Much is the Complete Expense? Paralegal schools can differ in cost based on the credential received and the length of training provided. Having said that, 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 might be accessible to help minimize part of the cost, so don't forget to contact the school's financial aid office to find out what is available in Suamico WI. Of course if you decide to attend an online school, some of these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, might be decreased or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Numerous paralegal students keep working while receiving their training and require flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend weekend or evening classes near Suamico WI, verify classes are available at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, make certain that the program you enroll in provides that option. Finally, inquire what the process is for making-up classes missed as a result of work, illness or family obligations.