What to Ask Paralegal Degree Programs
Since you now you have a better idea about what paralegals do and what educational choices are offered, you can begin the undertaking of assessing schools. But since there are so many programs available at community and junior colleges in the Weston WI area, as well as trade and vocational schools, you need to find out what questions to ask so that you can evaluate each one. This is particularly true when you include all of the online paralegal degree and certificate programs also. If you are like many potential students, you will start by searching for schools within driving distance and then comparing their tuition. But as we have already covered, there are other important aspects to consider also, such as accreditation and the reputation of the schools. So let's go over a few of the questions you need to be asking the programs you are considering so that you can thoroughly vet each one and make your final selection.
Is the Paralegal School Accredited? The paralegal school and program that you select should be accredited by a recognized organization such as the American Bar Association. If it is an online program, it can also get accreditation from the Distance Education and Training Council, which targets distance or online training. Accreditation will not only help guarantee that the training you will get will be of the highest quality, but it will show potential employers that you are a qualified professional as well. Numerous Weston WI law firms will only hire entry level legal assistants that are graduates of an accredited program. Also, financial aid and student loans are usually available only for accredited schools.
What's the Reputation of the School? Find out what the reputations and rankings are for the paralegal programs you are contemplating. This is of specific importance if you are new to the field with no prior work history, since employers will have to rely on the caliber of your training exclusively. Verifying that the program you choose is accredited is a good first step. Reviewing school rating reports can help verify school quality of education and rankings as well. You can also call a few Weston WI law practices that you may be interested in working for after graduating and ask what schools they recommend. Remember that even if a school is not among the most highly rated, its paralegal program could still have an outstanding reputation.
Does the Program Sponsor Internships? Internship programs offer students an opportunity to experience working in a law practice or other legal establishment while attending school. They can also provide a pathway for students to begin developing contacts within the Weston WI legal field. Find out if the paralegal programs you are considering provide internship programs, particularly in areas of the law that you have the most interest in pursuing upon graduation.
Is Job Placement Assistance available? You will most likely wish to secure employment quickly after graduating, but getting that initial job in a new field can be challenging without help. Ask if the paralegal schools you are interviewing have job assistance programs and what their placement rates are. High and rapid placement rates are an excellent indication 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? Considering that laws differ from one state to another, it may be beneficial to choose a legal assistant school located in Wisconsin or the state where you wish to work after graduation. Also, it will be necessary to establish relationships in the area legal community, possibly through an internship program. This is even more justification to receive your education in the area where you want to work. Also, if you go to classes at a community college, many require an increased tuition for students that reside outside of their districts. So you may need to first look at those schools that are within the Weston WI region.
What is the Entire Expense? Paralegal programs can differ in cost depending on the credential received and the amount of training furnished. Having said that, tuition will not be the only expense for your education. Don't forget to add the cost of books, supplies and commuting to classes to your budget also. Financial aid might be available to help offset part of the cost, so make sure to consult with the school's financial aid office to see what is offered in Weston WI. Of course if you choose to attend an online school, some of these supplementary expenses, for instance for commuting, may be reduced or eliminated.
Do the Classes Fit your Schedule? Many legal students continue working while obtaining their training and need flexibility in class scheduling. If you can solely attend night or weekend classes near Weston WI, make sure classes are offered at those times. Additionally, if you can only attend on a part-time basis, confirm that the school you select makes available that option. Last, ask what the procedure is for making up missed classes because of sickness, work or family obligations.