Convenience Of Online Degrees
Today, more than ever, it's easier and more convenient to obtain
a degree than ever before. This is thanks to the prevalence of
online degree and distance learning programs now widely
available.
Statistics show that 56% of all 2 year and 4 year colleges now
offer some kind of online learning and distance education
courses. That is over 2,000 colleges nationwide. The University
of Phoenix saw it's enrollment almost triple in the five year
period 1998-2003. Trying not to be left behind, some ivy league
colleges such as Harvard and MIT now offer online courses and
full degree programs online.
Convenience is the key to the success of these programs. Most of
the students that are attracted by online degree programs are
busy full-time working professionals, some with children at
home. Some are single parents who can't get out of the house two
or three times a week to attend school at a traditional campus.
Utilizing online education students are able to learn at their
own pace. They can do their studying at their leisure.
Distance education program requirements vary from college to
college. Some require that you visit the campus a few times
during the semester, some only at the beginning. Most have
orientations at the beginning of each semester which allow the
students to meet with professors. After this initial
orientation, the college utilizes teleconferencing and taped
lectures for further learning and discussions between students
and professors.
If you are thinking of taking advantage of an online degree make
sure that the college is accredited. Accreditation means that
the school is held to high and established standards of
education. You should only attend a properly accredited college.
Some degrees, such as nursing and education require licensing.
Make sure that your state will accept the degree obtained from
an online university. Don't forget to see what type of financial
aid might be available to you through the school, local and
federal governments or even in the workplace. Most employers
offer rebates to employees who return to school to advance their
career skills.
Be advised that as with traditional college learning, online
courses involve lots of studying. It's important to be organized
and focused to realize success with self paced learning. In
general, surveys have found that nine to ten hours of study per
week is needed for each class you are taking.