Taking online classes can be an excellent way to earn your degree without having to worry about spending time and money commuting to class every day. Some of the most popular benefits of online education include flexibility, convenience, and lower tuition costs compared to traditional colleges and universities. However, there are other factors you should consider when choosing an online college program that will allow you to achieve your educational goals. Here are some things to think about when deciding on an online school.
Location
The location of a college can be a huge factor in how you experience your education. Do you want to be on campus? Would online learning work better for you? Distance learning might not be a viable option but staying close to home might be just what you need! Be sure to weigh your options carefully. Online colleges are typically more affordable than their on-campus counterparts—but they might also provide less support and guidance along your academic journey.
In addition, many online programs are offered in an asynchronous format, meaning students have time throughout their day—not just during class—to complete assignments and study material. What’s more, many schools now offer live chat sessions or even office hours with instructors who will help you along your path toward earning your degree.
Flexibility and Convenience
Unlike traditional education options, online degree programs typically allow students to take courses at their own pace. This flexibility can be beneficial for those who have busy schedules or work full-time jobs while they earn their degrees. For example, you might be able to start taking classes over a weekend while working during most of your weekdays. Or you might decide that a weekly night class works best for your schedule.
One of online education’s major benefits is convenience—but that may not mean what you think. A convenient program isn’t one where you can attend lectures at 3 am; it’s one that gives you more options and doesn’t tie up too much of your time. Some schools offer flexible class times and even allow students to choose their own deadlines for assignments and exams.
Accreditation
The first thing you should do when researching a college degree program is make sure it’s accredited. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) accredits all postsecondary schools and programs, ensuring they meet national standards for quality in instructional delivery, academic offerings, and financial stability. Most employers require an accredited degree before hiring a graduate.
Affordability
One of your first concerns should be how much you’ll spend on tuition. If you attend a traditional college, you’ll have to pay for room and board in addition to tuition. Online courses allow students to avoid some of these costs by staying in their home while they take classes. As with most things, if something seems too good to be true—like really cheap or no-cost online courses—you should do some additional research before enrolling.
The cost of online degrees can vary depending on your degree level, program, and whether you’re taking courses through a private school or a public one. According to a study conducted by College Board, tuition at four-year private institutions was $38,070 in 2021-2022 while tuition at four-year public institutions was $27,560. Meanwhile, tuition for online programs costs between $200 and $600 per credit hour.
Degree Options: Undergraduate, Graduate, and Masters
The first thing you should consider when you’re trying to pick a program is whether or not your area of study aligns with your career goals. You should also consider if that degree program can be completed in a time frame that works for you.
There are three degrees options you can pursue in higher education. The first is a bachelor’s degree, which typically requires four years of schooling. If you want to advance your education with a master’s or doctorate degree, however, then you’ll need to tack on another year or two (or more) and study even harder. Finally, there’s professional school—graduate programs that help you secure jobs in highly specific fields like law or medicine.
Student Support
It’s a fact: not all students learn in exactly the same way. That’s why some schools offer more than one option for learning. In fact, most schools today offer multiple options for distance learning and continuing education—including hybrid programs that combine both face-to-face and online coursework. Students should think carefully about what kind of education style will help them learn best.
An important factor in deciding on an institution for your education is graduation rates. Typically, schools with lower numbers have poorer academic reputations than those with higher numbers. By understanding these factors, you’ll be able to narrow down your search for your perfect school.