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Online Degrees

Online Degrees. What are they and what types are available?

What exactly is an online degree?

Once perceived as inferior to on-campus programs, the popularity and success of online degree programs has prompted critics of the flexible and cost-effective programs to reevaluate their opinions. With online schools now widely holding regional accreditations, distance learning and online education is becoming a relevant alternative, catering to the needs of students unable to attend on-campus colleges. Busy professionals seeking graduate degrees and stay-at-home parents pursuing bachelors degrees are just two examples of the wide variety of students taking advantage of online degree programs. As more and more students earn degrees from accredited online institutions, the perception of an online degree is beginning to match the opinion of degrees earned from traditional colleges.

The pros of an online degree are relatively obvious. The idea of attending class from your living room appeals to a wide variety of students. Also, the flexibility of some online colleges allows time for a students with a full schedule to also find time for classes. However, there are cons that need to be considered before the decision is made to pursue an online degree. Online colleges require students to keep their own schedule. Without the firm structure offered by traditional colleges, procrastinators may fall behind. Students who are not self-starters or suffer from poor time-management skills may find that an online degree is not for them.

Also, though online colleges offer bulletin boards and discussions via the internet, the face-to-face socialization found at traditional colleges is not available. Students who thrive when working independently and are not in need of the social interaction through college should find an online degree to be a perfect fit. However, let the buyer beware. As with any purchase, make sure to do your research. Just like a face-to-face degree, it is important to research thoroughly before applying.

First, make sure your field is online-degree friendly. Online degrees suit some fields better than others, certain technological fields being an obvious example. Online degrees in accounting, business administration and healthcare are also very common.

Second, and equally as important, look for programs that are endorsed by one of the six nationally recognized accrediting agencies. If your online degree comes from a program that is not appropriately accredited, it will look much less impressive on your resume.

Third, be aware that though work study and student loans may not be available for many of those programs, there are many methods for finding tuition assistance.

Finally, be sure your schedule has room for the workload. These programs are flexible, but college is still college, even if it is done from home.

What types of degrees are available online?

Students will find many different types of degrees through online programs, including Diplomas, Certificates, Associate's Degrees, Bachelor's Degrees, Master's Degrees and Doctoral Degrees.

While most colleges and universities offering degrees online have programs for each, check with the school of your choice for availability of your desired degree programs, as well as admissions criteria, credit hours required and transfer of any existing credits.

About StudentCorner.com

Student Corner is your resource for researching and comparing education programs and degrees as well as requesting free information from the colleges and universities offering them. With this free service, you'll find one of the most comprehensive systems for leading you to the most appropriate programs to help you land your dream job.

Simply browse through the various colleges and universities represented here, or explore information about the career fields and education options available to you. Then, request free information from as many schools as you'd like, and they'll contact you quickly to answer any questions you have.

Their number one goal is to help you find the right program for your needs, and whether it's at a local campus or online, there's a program for you!