It used to that if you wanted to continue your education, you had to go away to school. If you were lucky there would be a college or university close...
It used to that if you wanted to continue your education,
you had to go away to school. If you were lucky there would be a college or university close to your home, but you still had to make the commitment to attend classes daily. This meant a complete upheaval of your life. If you were a mature student the ramifications of this were many: childcare arrangements, a leave of absence from your job, less money coming into the home. Thankfully you now have the option of getting an online degree.
Brick and mortar universities and colleges are a great option for someone right out of high school, looking for that college experience. But if you are already in the work force obtaining a degree online is the perfect option if you are looking to increase your education or further yourself in your career. Not everyone has the option of simply leaving work and attending classes full time. With online degrees you quite often have the flexibility of "attending" the classes when you want, fitting them into your existing schedule. This means that you can continue to work, bringing money into the household, while you study for your degree. Most classes at traditional universities are held during the day, with a few evening classes. With online courses, you can do your coursework at 2 am, if that's what you want. It's up to you.
And don't think that getting a degree online means less than attending a physical school. As long as you take your courses from an accredited online university or college, your degree is just as good as if you had gone into a classroom every day. You will learn everything that you need to know to get a job in your chosen career.
Even if your classes are all done remotely and mostly through independent study, it doesn't mean that you'll be all on your own. Professors will be available to help you anytime you have questions or get stuck. In fact, depending on your course, there may even be the option to video conference with professors. While you may need to check in from time to time, you will be able to work at your own pace. This will allow you to spend more time on difficult topics and move quickly through areas that are easier for you.
Like a brick and mortar school, you will have the option of applying for financial aid, if need be. Bursaries, scholarships and student aid may all be available to you. This can help alleviate some of the cost of your course and in some cases make getting your degree a possibility. And depending on the school you take your courses from, you could also be allowed to pay your tuition monthly, rather than completely up front.
The flexibility offered through online institutions is staggering. You can do your degree as a full-time student or a part-time student, depending on your situation. A lot of time if you attend a physical university or college you have to take a full course load and complete your requirements within a certain number of years in order to receive your degree. With online colleges you almost always have the options of picking away at your degree, taking courses when your time allows.
If you are thinking of going back to school, whether to further your career or start a new one, then an online degree may be the perfect option for you. Allowing you to continue in your current life, working and living where you are, it's a hassle free way of getting the education you want without a major upheaval in your life.
