Monday, September 24, 2007

Online College Degree Program - 5 Things You Should Consider Before Reaching a Decision

By: Tara Peterson

Like any thing else, acquiring an online college degree has some advantages and disadvantages to it. It is vital for you to know what that means to you. This article will coat several of those points. If you decide that online degree program or online education is exactly what suit you in the best possible way then there are several websites that will assist you in finding the most appropriate online college degree program for you. Below are some points you should pay attention before making your mind in favor or against the online degree programs.

  • Accreditation: Not all schools are created equal. Make sure that the online college you are considering has the appropriate accreditation. Find out what accreditation is required for the particular career you are seeking. This will vary amongst occupations and professions. (of course this is true of traditional campus based schools as well)
  • Financial aid: Recently legislation was passed that forbid the withholding of financial aid to a student at an online school based on that fact alone. However, this may still be an issue.
  • Learning style: Online education is not for everyone. Some people are more social and less technologically inclined and find that a campus based school meets their abilities and personalities better. If you are self-driven, have a basic knowledge of computers, and do not need a campus to meet your social needs, then online education may be better for your style.
  • Transferability: If you start an online program and then decide to transfer to another campus-based college, you will want to make sure your online credits will transfer. This is a question you need to ask the adviser before you select a school. On the other hand, choosing an online school will allow you to continue your education program even if you have to move, change jobs, or undergo some other new obligation.
  • Creditability: Despite the fact that online degrees are increasing by 20% each year, as opposed to campus-based colleges which are increasing only 2% each year, some potential employers may not give an online degree the came credibility as a traditional campus based college degree. You need to do your homework here too. Ask potential employers what the general feeling is about online degrees, this can vary greatly related to occupation and the level of the degree you are seeking.

Earning a college degree takes planning and perseverance and you should plan well, with all aspect in mind, before opting for an online college degree. You need to make sure that you do your “homework” and select the program and the method of education that will best suit you and give you the “bank for your buck”. Make sure you ask the right questions of both campus-based traditional college education programs and online or distance college degree education programs. Talk to the adviser at whichever type of school you choose and make sure you understand the pros and cons.


About the Author:

Just click on the following link to get online college degree information. It's fast, it's free, and you're under no obligation. You can get information about many types of online bachelors degree programs from many colleges. They also offer information about programs and schools that offer distance learning online masters degree programs

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