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In today’s internet age, prospective students now have a unique opportunity to complete their college education online. As competition in the job market continues to increase, many employers now require a college education before they’ll even interview an applicant – even in positions that previously required only a high school diploma for consideration. Other employers may require that an employee has a college degree before they can be promoted to a higher level. With the time constraints of work and family life, attending a traditional college can place an incredible hardship on some people.
Advantages of Online Colleges and Universities
With over four million students enrolled throughout the United States in some sort of online distance learning program, there are many compelling reasons why a virtual classroom may be best for you. More than 75% of all colleges and universities in the United States now offer some online classes, and many offer entire degree programs online. With the reduced overhead expenses of online learning, it’s likely that, eventually, all colleges will add some form of virtual learning to their course offerings.
Needless to say, convenience is the main reason why many people choose to use an online college or university to obtain their degree. Students can attend a course anytime, and from anywhere. No matter what your work schedule may be or what your hectic home life might entail, you can find an online distance learning program that will work with your available time.
Most online colleges offer course material that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Students can easily review lectures and discussions at their convenience, something that isn’t often available in a traditional classroom setting. In addition, instructors can be located anywhere in the world, allowing students to be exposed to knowledge that sometimes can’t be learned from a book.
Online distance learning also allows students to sharpen many of the necessary skills relating to technology. Between the necessary internet research, online attendance, and virtual communication with instructors and students, many students find that they develop computer and software experience that they may not have had beforehand. Many employers find these skills to be highly desirable, and will definitely consider them when reviewing your application.
Finally, many students find that an online classroom is much less intimidating than a traditional classroom setting. Students can add their comments to online discussions when they’re ready, instead of being put on the spot in traditional classrooms. In general, online instructors tend to be more approachable, through the use of email, online chatting, and discussion groups.
Disadvantages to Online Distance Learning
While the benefits of online distance learning usually far outweigh the disadvantages, there are a few points that need to be addressed. There is, of course, a limited subject matter that can be taught online. For example, you wouldn’t want to go to a doctor that only received their training online, without any type of hands-on training. There are limitations to what you can learn through a virtual classroom, so they won’t be an option if you’re interested in certain fields.
In addition, self discipline is a must for students who are working towards their degrees online. It can be tempting to login to your class, see the assignments that are posted and tell yourself that you can do them tomorrow. Without the physical presence of an instructor, or the need to turn in physical assignments at certain times, the days can quickly fly by, before, suddenly, the end of the semester is upon you. There will be days when you simply don’t want to participate in class – days that it would be much easier to just relax on the couch – however, it’s imperative that you make school a priority and force yourself to participate.
Finally, another disadvantage to online distance learning is the abundance of scams that are all over the internet today. You’ve likely heard of online “degree mills” – programs where you simply send in a check and receive the degree of your choosing. Even if this sounds tempting, know that most employers know the difference between legitimate programs and scams, and will consider your application accordingly. You must know how to differentiate between a reputable online college or university and one of the unscrupulous sites that’s only after your money.
Finding a Reputable Online College or University
With this in mind, how can you tell if an online college or university is the real deal? The following are some simple pointers that can help you decide.
First, be leery of “life experiences” courses – courses that offer a degree based upon your life experiences, without the need to attend any class or take an examination. There’s no such thing as an accredited degree that’s based solely on your life experiences.
Next, check out the accreditation agencies that are listed for the school. Sometimes, you’ll find that the agencies that offered the accreditation don’t even exist – certificates and diplomas from these schools are a waste of money and time.
Look for colleges that offer at least one of the following accreditations:
- Distance Education and Training Council (DETC)
- Middle States Association (MSA)
- North Central Association of Schools and Colleges (NCASC)
- New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC)
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
- Southwest Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
How do you check these accreditations? Ask the school. A reputable school will tell you if they are accredited and with what governing body. For verification, check with the institution the school says has given them their accreditation. You must judge an online school by the accreditation and not by the fancy or impressive words listed in their website or printed materials.
You’ll also need to ensure that the online college or university has an operating license. Each college, university, or other institution for high learning must have an operation’s charter for the particular state where their headquarters are located. If the school can’t provide this, they’re more than likely operating illegally.
Another telling sign is the financial aid offerings available through the online college. If the school isn’t eligible to receive federal student aid, it’s probably due to a lack of accreditation. Each college, university, or school must petition the federal government in order to qualify for these types of federal services. If the school didn’t qualify, it’s likely because the federal government found problems or inconsistencies with their accreditations – a sign that you should start looking elsewhere.
In Closing
When it comes down to your college education, you need to make sure that your money, energy, and time are well spent. Make sure you check out the online colleges that interest you in order to be sure you’re applying for a legitimate program. If you find any problems with a certain college, it’s best to avoid the school. Doing your homework now can save you an awful lot of headaches later on.
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