Choosing the Right Paralegal School: A Comprehensive Guide to Making an Informed Decision

When deciding on the type of education one should pursue on their way to becoming a paralegal, there are several factors to consider, such as the specific programs to enroll in. For instance, both paralegal studies and legal studies are sub-fields of law. However, paralegal studies are designed to specifically train students to become paralegals, while legal studies encompass a broader range of paths that may include a paralegal program. 

Students also need to consider the type of degree they want to pursue when picking their educational path. Three types of academic credentials most frequently lead to a career in the paralegal profession: associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, or post-baccalaureate certificates.

• An associate degree is often called an entry-level diploma earned after completing approximately two years of study at an accredited program. This degree can be obtained on-site or online at community colleges or traditional universities.

• A bachelor’s degree is a four-year program. Obtaining a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies allows students to develop an understanding of the paralegal's role and specialized knowledge in various areas of law.

• A post-baccalaureate paralegal certificate verifies a student has completed a paralegal education program. Certificate programs are generally offered at colleges or universities and may require students to have already earned an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. Many individuals pursue this certificate because it allows them to build relevant experience and cultivate the knowledge needed to help further their careers.

While it is not mandatory for a paralegal to obtain national certification to work as a paralegal, they can take a national certification exam to become a certified paralegal. This certification demonstrates the paralegal's expertise in their field. However, paralegals must have the necessary work experience, educational qualifications, or a combination of both to be eligible for this certification exam. For further information about this certification, consider reviewing your options by checking out the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) or NALA, The Paralegal Association.

Experienced faculty members and program directors are essential for providing quality education and mentorship to students in the school. These knowledgeable professionals help students in their career development goals and act as their guides, assisting them in researching work opportunities, providing teaching resources, or offering other professional development resources to help them get ahead in their careers. As a result, it is critical to learn more about a school’s faculty and program directors before enrolling in a program, including the following criteria:

• Teaching styles

• Accessibility

• Research and publications

Individuals should also take the time to explore faculty profiles to gain further insight into their specific experiences and areas of specialization. This can help students decide if the professors fit their educational goals and fields of interest.

When schools provide opportunities for students to participate in practical experiences such as internships or project work, they enable students to apply the knowledge they gained in the classroom to real-world situations. This experience can help bridge the gap between classroom learning and the demands of the paralegal profession. Moreover, practical experience reinforces learning and provides paralegals with a competitive edge in the job market. For instance, Oakland Community College's paralegal internship program allows individuals enrolled to work with other legal professionals, apply the information they learned to real-life situations, learn skills to help them after graduation and develop a better understanding of paralegal work.

Paralegal students have a variety of options when it comes to choosing their educational path. They can opt for online or traditional classroom settings based on their circumstances. Those who prefer traditional classroom settings may enjoy the face-to-face interaction with their instructor, while online classes offer flexibility and time-saving benefits. Paralegal students need to review these options carefully and select a school that suits their needs.

Students need also to understand that education does not end once a paralegal obtains their degree or certificate. Rather, continued learning is necessary to stay ahead in the legal field. Paralegals can take advantage of continuing education classes and other training resources to hone their skills and remain competitive. Fortunately, paralegals have many opportunities to obtain this continuing education, including through professional organizations such as NALA and the NFPA.

Career and student services are essential in helping students determine the best career paths based on their qualifications and interests. These services guide additional qualifications students may need to acquire and suggest activities that can make them more appealing candidates. They also assist students with job placement and identify networking opportunities.

To evaluate a school's performance in providing student support and career services, students should check out these departments themselves to learn about the opportunities they offer. It is also critical to find out whether the departments have partnerships with legal fields that can help students with their careers after graduation. Additionally, students may want to check whether the college career center offers various resources regarding job-search tools, such as resume-building guides or workshops.