How To Pick An Online College

An Additional Word About Models Of Online Education

There are two competing models for online learningstudent-centered and competency-based.

Student-centered online learning focuses on outcomes to meet the evolving needs of students and employers. Student-centered courses balance autonomy with structured student support. Expect defined course timelines, instructor-led classes and collaborative assignments.

Competency-based online education, on the other hand, is a predominantly solitary learning experience. You set the pace for your learning, only moving to the next course after proving your expertise in a topic. Expect a linear learning experience, limited interaction with instructors and courses without deadlines.

Determining If An Online College Is Legitimate

The days of associating a stigma with online education are long gone. Online degrees continue to rise in prominence and popularity. According to labor analytics firm EMSI, in 2019, 1,358,068 degrees were completed online, accounting for 26% of all college degrees that year. From 2012 to 2019, completions of traditional, non-distanced offered degrees have declined by 3.3%. While these traditional universities are struggling to attract students, online colleges are thrivingexperiencing a 56.3% increase in degree completions over the same time period.

But that doesn’t mean all online colleges are worth it.

How do you separate the online colleges that are worth the investment from the ones that arent? Get answers to these 6 key questions to holistically measure the worth of an online college:

• Is this online college regionally accredited?
• Does this online college offer tailored support services and resources to enable my success?
• Does this online college provide an engaging, interactive and hands-on learning environment?
• Will I gain both technical and soft skills that will set me apart for advancement?
• Will a degree from this online college be respected by employers?
• Will my short-term and long-term earning and hiring potential improve with this online degree?

Once you determine the legitimacy and value of an online college, you can reap the benefits of earning your degree online.

Red Flags In Online Education Degrees

Unfortunately, some online programs take advantage of students. These red flags can help you avoid diploma mills.

Accreditation is the first thing to check. Many diploma mills claim they’re accredited, but not by an approved accrediting agency. If you’re considering liberal arts or research schools, only look at regionally accredited institutions. For vocational or trade programs, national accreditation also works, as long as the accrediting agency has approval from the Department of Education.

When programs offer a degree after only a few months of coursework, that’s another warning sign. Associate degrees require at least 60 credits, and bachelor’s degrees require 120 credits. It’s possible to earn a degree in less time by applying transfer credits or choosing an accelerated schedule, but schools promising a four-year degree in under one year is a huge red flag.

The best online programs want you to succeed, so they offer student support services like career advising, online tutoring, and access to library resources. Avoid programs that don’t offer any of these resources. That’s a sign that they’re cutting corners and aren’t invested in your education and career success.

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Public Colleges + Private Colleges: Aim For Both

To know more, check out the following blogs: Public vs Private Universities: Which one to Choose?, Public vs Private Colleges.

If your list comprises primarily public universities, you should think about private, non-profit universities as well. There are variations between the two types of universities, and you may be missing out on benefits if you dont examine private colleges as well. Because they have a smaller student body than most public universities, private colleges typically have smaller class sizes.

Determine Which Online Learning Format You Prefer

Online programs offer several delivery options. For example, many programs use a fully online format, while others operate as a hybrid program with some in-person requirements. You can also enroll as a full-time or part-time student. And some programs offer accelerated bachelor’s degrees.

Distance learners may take classes synchronously or asynchronously. A synchronous format offers live class sessions that encourage interaction, while asynchronous classes do not hold set meeting times. An asynchronous format may appeal to working professionals and busy students. Consider which format best fits your schedule.

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Are Online College Classes Cheaper

Online college classes can cost less than in-person classes. Distance learners may benefit from tuition discounts, including access to in-state tuition rates for fully online students regardless of where they live. However, online programs can sometimes accrue extra fees for things like distance learning support services, so it’s best for prospective online students to research tuition rates at potential schools before enrolling.

Header Image Credit: Deagreez | Getty Images

Talk To Current Students And Alumni

Theres no better way to get the scoop on a particular college than by talking to current and former students. Friends and family members provide especially valuable insight, but chatting with connections from LinkedIn could also help. Most people will be thrilled to offer their insight to prospective students.

As you chat with these students, remember that your mileage may vary what one person views as a wonderful college experience may not be quite right for somebody else. Still, their perspective will give you a more well-rounded view of the school in question.

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Q Can I Get Financial Aid For Online College

Learners enrolled in accredited online colleges qualify for the same financial aid options as in-person enrollees. Distance learners can apply for federal student aid by completing the FAFSA every year. Applicants complete the FAFSA to receive federal grants, loans, and work-study aid. Online students can also apply for scholarships, grants, fellowships, and other forms of financial aid.

When researching financial aid options, make sure to check the minimum number of credits to receive aid, whether a full-time or part-time enrollment status affects eligibility, and school accreditation.

Check The School’s Accreditation Status

Distance learners should always choose a properly accredited school. But what is accreditation, and why does it matter?

Accredited institutions meet high standards for educating learners. Schools receive accreditation by undergoing a rigorous review from an independent accrediting agency. These accrediting agencies evaluate a school’s academic mission, teaching materials, student learning outcomes, and faculty qualifications.

And accreditation matters for students. Accredited schools tend to provide a higher-quality education that meets the requirements for more professional licenses and certifications. In many fields, employers only hire graduates from accredited institutions. And only distance learners at accredited schools can qualify for federal financial aid programs.

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Becoming A Financial Analyst: Mathematics Degrees

Financial analysts advise their company or organization on money allocation, with the goal of increasing profits. They must study the finances of the company, the money trends within their industry as a whole, and the larger economy in order to make sound recommendations. Becoming an analyst typically requires, at a minimum, a bachelorâs degree in math or finance, with an MBA or math-related masterâs being preferred by some institutions. Many analysts also go on to take exams and earn certificates such as the Chartered Financial Analyst in order to increase their odds of hiring and earn higher salaries. While this field may not be for everyone, those with a strong attention to detail, a deep interest in the economy, and the communication skills necessary to convince others of your financial predictions can certainly thrive in this role.

Median Pay: $95,570

Job Growth: Financial analyst positions are expected to grow by 9 percent between 2021 to 2031, which is faster than average.

Cameron Smith Wins The Masters

After Augusta National announced in December that members of the upstart LIV Golf tour can compete in the Masters, Smith, the No. 3 player in the world rankings, outduels Rory McElroy for his first green jacket. LIV chief executive Greg Norman claims a TV contract with a prominent American media outlet is imminent.

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Dont Ignore Your Health Needs

Keep in mind that certain college towns may have a difficult time accommodating your needs. These can be as obvious as diet and wheelchair accessibility. They can also be concerns that dont occur to you at first: for example, big sports schools can be EXTREMELY LOUD, with chants and banging going past midnight, which might infuriate someone who needs a solid nights sleep. You should also consider your mental health needs: does the school have quality resources? Additionally, is it important to your mental health to be within visiting distance of family? Will it benefit you to have family nearby in case the situation requires?

• Availability of student clinics

Menu Of Courses And Programs

Hopefully, you already have a course or program in mind. But even if you dont have one yet, it pays to pick an online school with robust offering programs. A school offering diverse programs allows you to switch between courses seamlessly should you have a change of heart in the future. Its also best to find schools with masters or doctorate programs so that youre already well-adjusted to the system when you decide to level up your education.

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Southern New Hampshire University Online

Southern New Hampshire University Online features a large selection of online programs, with eight associate degrees, 99 bachelor’s degrees and 86 master’s degrees for prospective students to choose from. Students can pursue degrees in fields ranging from business to criminal justice to education and liberal arts. SNHU Online has a 64% recommendation rate based on 371 student reviews, and a generous transfer policy that allows students to apply up to 90 credits toward an undergraduate program. OnlineU has this university at #3 on two of our lists: The 100 Most Popular Accredited Online Schools & Colleges and the 2021 Best Online Associate Degrees list . Academic term start dates are spread throughout the calendar year and all online courses are accessible 24/7 at the student’s own pace. SNHU Online also offers specialized online student resources, including an online library, bookstore, tutoring services, and tech support. Tuition is $9,600 per year for undergraduate programs.

Purdue University Global Affordability & Aid Options

Although university courses can be expensive, Purdue Global provides a variety of ways to reduce the cost of your studies. First, you can get credits for prior work experience, giving you a tuition grant of up to $1,500. There are also credit transfers available from previous degrees or assessments. Service members, veterans, and military spouses are eligible for reductions . You may also be able to make a Free Application for Federal Student Aid .

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Becoming A Psychologist: Psychology Degrees

Psychologists observe and study the emotions, behaviors, and interactions of their clients with the world around them. Being a psychologist can mean a variety of things, with some primarily conducting scientific studies on the human condition, some working from a private practice assisting clients, and some working as part of a healthcare team with doctors and social workers. While most psychologists go on to earn a doctorate, certain positions only require a masterâs in psychology and a license to practice in the state in question. Many psychologists choose to specialize in certain techniques or in treating particular disorders. As the entire field involves working with and trying to understand and assist other people, psychologists must have advanced communication skills and be highly organized. For those looking for a career that both allows you to help others and teaches you about the inner workings of the human mind, the field of psychology is full of opportunity.

Median Pay: $81,040

Job Growth: Psychologist positions are expected to grow by 6 percent between 2021 to 2031, which is about average.

Purdue University Global At A Glance:

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Potential Jobs For Those Who Earn Online Technical Degrees

As you search for a technical degree online, pay attention to the minimum hardware requirements for student computers. Schools generally list these minimum hardware requirements as a part of its online catalog of information. These minimum requirements are essential as the school needs to ensure that each student enrolled in an online technical degree program will have the computing power to educate themselves through the online distance learning platform.

Here are several options for those who wish to earn a degree through online technical degree programs

Net Cost Of Tuition Fee

Online degrees are not always less expensive than conventional on-campus degrees the typical online bachelors degree program costs between $38,000 and $60,000 in total tuition . However, enrolling in an online degree program may save you money on transportation and supplies. Most significantly, it allows you to work while earning your degree more readily than if you have to attend courses in person.

Net cost also includes scholarship, grant, or other financial assistance amounts. In other words, if you get a scholarship that pays $10,000 per year, and your school charges a total of $60,000 for a bachelors degree, you can essentially deduct $40,000 from your programs fees.

Students who attend online programs may not be eligible for all of the financial assistance benefits that are made available to traditional learners. While some schools do not provide in-state tuition rates to online students, certain public institutions are able to subsidize out-of-state tuition.

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Review The School’s Website

University websites are chock-full of important information and resources, such as detailed campus maps and lists of clubs, courses, and activities.

You can search for your major on the school’s website to learn more about that department’s faculty, program requirements, minors, and events. You might also check to see whether the institution has won any awards or received any recent press for something like announcing a new initiative or achieving some major milestone.

Finally, be sure to pay special attention to financial aid and tuition. You might put together a spreadsheet that compares the total costs of all the colleges you’re considering.

Think about the top five things you’re looking for in a college. Does this institution check off all or most of those boxes?

Starting Your Online Degree

Beginning your college degree online is easier than ever before. Learners can explore more options for online degrees than at any time in the past. Online enrollees can earn degrees in various fields, including business, healthcare, information technology, and education.

Before enrolling in a program, students should research the earning potential for prospective careers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics offers data on median pay and projected job growth.

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What Are The Best Online Degrees Of 2023 For Careers Projected To Grow

While itâs clear that there is no loss of quality when it comes to online degrees, a bigger question still stands — which degrees are the most likely to get you employed? For many students, finding a job after graduation is a major concern, one that easily manifests in sleepless nights and a near-constant sense of anxiety. As much as your love for a subject can be paramount to your success, balancing passion with reality can lead to better prospects and less stress in the long-term. Though there are too many factors at play for us to give an exact answer on what the best degree is for you, there are definitely fields with higher projected growth rates and higher median salaries, information which is easily available online. While we always encourage students to choose a field of study that really catches their attention, itâs a good idea to do some research on a variety of degree options ahead of time to see which of your fields of interest are the most likely to snag you your dream job.

To get you started, weâve researched just a few of the most popular and most employable career paths, as well as the degrees they typically require. Whether youâre interested in law, psychology, education, technology, or something else entirely, here are seven potential jobs your online degree could lead you to:

Is The Online College Cost

Once you apply to earn your bachelor’s degree at CCU, you are automatically adopted into a locked-in tuition benefit. This benefit allows you to go to school for up to 5 years at the same tuition rate. Like the housing industry and gas prices, college tuition costs go up as well. We understand that while you are investing in your future you are also investing in your pocket books.

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Purdue University Global Additional Support

The university offers a range of support services for students, both academically and outside their studies. The Academic Success Centers give free tutoring and seminars in math, science, and writing. You can also access the Purdue Global Library, which provides electronic resources, including e-books and journals, through its website. Librarians are on hand to help you through email, chat, or one-to-one meetings.

Another valuable source of support is the Center for Career Advancement. They provide a range of career-focused resources and opportunities. For example, it offers regular employer spotlights, a CareerNetwork platform where you can find and apply for jobs, and mentoring through one-to-one career discussions.

If you need accommodations for a disability, you can seek support from the Student Accessibility Services. If appropriate, you may be able to access course materials in a format to suit you, plus extended time for assessments and auxiliary aids.