After a thorough investigation you have decided that online study is for you. Your lifelong personal interests and career goals have been thoroughly assessed. After considerable calculation, you are determined to pursue long-distance learning for its many desirable aspects. There is only one fly in the ointment: which online school is best for me?
This is a perfectly reasonable question. In fact, determining the correct answer is vital to your success. One wrong move could prove disastrous to reaching your desired destination on the road to educational excellence. With the right strategy and dogged persistence, you will be leagues ahead of your colleagues.
Take a momentary break from the mundane ebb and flow of everyday existence. Tune into the following instruction very closely. It may help you avoid self-destruction in your rush for quality instruction. Class has now started.
Accreditation
First, insure that an institution is properly certified by the right authorities before you enroll. Do not consider any online universities except those that offer accredited courses and programs.
There are six recognized accrediting agencies in the US. They are as follows: Middle States, New England, North Central, Northwest, Southern, and Western. Each agency covers a different geographical section of the nation. These agencies provide "regional" accreditation. Do not be duped by schools that boast "national accreditation" or "legally registered" degrees.
Online track record
Online universities are a relatively new educational phenomenon. Many institutions' distance learning programs have huge unresolved "bugs" in their platforms. When reviewing schools' websites, make sure that technical support is available around-the-clock.
Sufficient electronic capability
Beware of online schools that boast advanced technologies such as Video Conferencing, Whiteboard capability, etc. These ultra high-tech features are actually ill-suited for most modems. Reliable media such as bulletin boards, email, and websites are the preferred methods of instruction.
Exclusive online format
Insure that all instruction is indeed conducted online. Some schools that advertise as "online programs" deliver instruction via DVD, mail, or partial on-campus attendance. Verify that the institution you plan to attend is exclusively online.
Financial aid availability
Make sure that the school is fully eligible for all Federal and private financial aid. Most students require some form of financial assistance to complete their degrees.
If you are employed, check with your Human Resources Office to find out if your school is eligible for employer tuition reimbursement.
Accelerated study schedule
Online universities typically feature a concentrated coursework format. You want programs that require no more than three years' part-time study for degree completion. Review program curricula and outline materials to determine approximate times required to reach graduation.
Student and alumni experiences
Have you ever heard the old adage "word of mouth is the best advertising?" It applies to educational institutions as much as any other organizations. Investigate the institution's academic reputation. Conduct search engine queries to locate other resources for objective feedback.
Industry ratings
Check employers' impressions within your intended occupational field to find out their impressions of your prospective program. This is essential information to know before you invest substantial time and money. The entire purpose of pursuing a degree is to qualify for a position in your desired occupation. If employers will not respect your degree, the effort is largely wasted.
Consult professionals who are already working or practicing in your chosen career. They can give you many "real-life" tips on what schools are highly regarded and the subspecialties that are in highest demand.
Don't underestimate Uncle Sam
In his true colors, Uncle Sam is looking out for you again. When you stop at his massive online mansion seeking financial assistance for your educational endeavor, he gives you helpful hints. Check him out at fafsa.gov. Every US college or university that is eligible to administer Federal financial aid to its students has a fafsa code. At the fafsa site, you can find out the rates of student attrition and graduation.
Such information will yield valuable insights into the quality of an academic program. Schools with low student retention and completion should be cause to pause. After all, there must be reasons why nobody seems to be sticking around much. You do not want to wind up similarly situated. You want to ultimately realize some fruits from your labor. Not just a bunch of sour grapes from mingling with spoiled apples.
Pick well, and you will have your choice of plum positions when you graduate. Keep your eyes on the prize! Class is now dismissed.
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