Once upon a time, many people considered the term “online degree” to be synonymous with “degree mill.” While that may have been true for some “degree programs,” the internet has quickly given rise to many legitimate, quality, respected online degree programs from legitimate, quality, respected institutions of higher learning. While some of the “$50 will upgrade you to a doctorate” offers still exist, they are certainly in the minority among the many fine choices available today.
Benefits of Earning Your Degree Online
Notice the word “earning”—you will be working just as hard for your online degree as traditional students. There are many benefits to choosing this route over the traditional college classroom. Some of them are listed below.
- Do school on your own schedule. Were you always done with your test in the first ten minutes after class started, sitting there bored out of your mind waiting for everyone else to catch up? Then online classes will probably be great for you and save you time. Maybe you were the other extreme—you were begging the teacher for just two more minutes after the bell rang. Then online classes will be great for you. If you need time, take time.
- Keep your day job. Many students have to sit out of school in order to work to pay the next semester’s bill. With online coursework, you can keep your day job as long as you are willing to go the extra mile to get your school work done in your “free time.”
- Communication with professors and other students. Don’t worry, you won’t lose out on this key facet of your education. Many online classes actually require that you stay in touch with your teacher and make regular posts on forums with other students.
- Worried about a stigma? No need. Many well-respected schools such as Kaplan University, Boston University, Georgia Southern University, University of Phoenix, Penn State, Bowling Green State University, California State University, and many others offer online degree programs.
- Accelerated tracks for those who already have a degree or certifications. There are programs, one example being RN to BSN, for those who are working as in their field, want to upgrade, but simply cannot put their career on hold to go back to school. Incidentally, this is a great way to get the pay increase you’ve been needing by furthering your education.
These are just a few of the many benefits of online learning. Check out the many resources available and take advantage of the opportunities to further yourself without giving up your job or putting your career on hold.
