Online College Degrees And What You Need To Know

An online college degree could be your path to success. As an increasing number of colleges seek out new enrollees, the popularity of these programs has skyrocketed over the previous decade. While students once needed to sit in classrooms for scheduled times, the landscape has vastly changed. Now, working professionals, people struggling to get ahead, and others, are clamoring to earn a higher degree from the comfort of their own homes and on their own time.

If you're currently examining online college degrees there are a few important considerations you need to make to ensure you pick the right school and program to achieve your goals.

Always Seek Out An Accredited Program

Not all online college degrees are created equal. Universities that provide the best bang for their buck must provide proof to governing bodies that their programs comply with all educational and financial standards. Make sure any program you think is worth your time is accredited, the US Department of Education provides a database of accredited programs.

Examine Career Placement Records Post-Graduation

Does the program you are choosing have a high number of students who quickly find work with their chosen degree? Many universities post placement numbers based on internal and external research. For example, an online registered nurse (RN) program, may alert students that 85% of graduates find work in their field after six months from the time of graduation. Be wary of programs that state graduates find work but fail to note that such work is related to their online college degrees.

Flexibility For Your Life

The list of 2019 colleges with online degree programs continues to grow and that means there is a lot of flexibility in which college you choose to attend. That flexibility can also carry-over into your personal life. Some programs require limited time spent on campus for workshops, others require fixed times for special sessions, and some allow students to work on their own time. If you're working a full-time job, raising children, or have other obligations, you may want to choose a more flexible path. The type of degree you are earning can affect the type of flexibility offered, especially if hands-on workshops are required.

What Are Students Saying?

Student reviews are a great way to determine if a program offers the technical and educational support required to gain value from a college degree. Research what students are saying about the college degree programs you are interested in and then determine if the accredited online college is worth further investigation.

Fast-Tracked Or Slow And Steady?

Bachelor degree programs typically require four years to complete but some online universities will allow you to work through summer sessions or attend trimester classes. Post-graduate degrees typically range from two to three years with fast-tracked programs that can be completed in one to 1.5 years. Determine how quickly you want to graduate and if a faster pace is going to interfere with your other obligations.

Ask Employers What They About An Online College Degree Program

Not all degrees are created equal and employers often have their own opinions on whether or not a program will qualify a potential employer for employment. Once you have narrowed down your search for the perfect online degree program, talk to professionals in the field and get their opinions.

Remember, the goal of obtaining an online college degree is to prepare you for the future in your chosen field. It's important that before you start online college today, you prepare for tomorrow. Examine these options and any other considerations that matter to you before you make a decision about your future.

References: US Dept of Education,