There is an increased need for online education programs in the United States and around the world. Not only does it save on cost—because you don’t have to spend a dime on transportation and accommodation—but it also allows people who already have a job or are staying at home to raise kids to pursue an academic achievement despite being tethered down by their circumstances. Practically all kinds of degrees and courses are being offered online. You can get a paralegal degree online, a master’s degree in marketing, or even a degree in psychology, accountancy, finance, and project management. The options to pursue distance education are endless. The Babson Survey Research Group released its Grade Increase report, which stated that enrollment in distance education programs grew again for the 14th straight year in 2016. It reportedly grew faster than the past several years.
Sometimes, an online program is the best option, but there are also times when you might benefit more from attending regular classes. Your need to pursue distance education will depend on your circumstances.
You Have a Regular Job
If you’re trying to make a living while also pursuing a college degree, an online program is the best course of action to take. The main advantage of enrolling in an online program is that it allows you to set your own time and schedule. You can then complete your coursework without needing to take a leave from work. This is especially going to work with an asynchronous class. This is the type of online degree program where you don’t have to participate in live sessions. You can interact with your professor and classmates via a discussion forum or via email.
You Want to Be Promoted
Some workers cannot advance in their careers because they are lacking the educational requirements to be promoted by the company they work for. It is a disappointment for experienced workers to be unable to get the promotion they deserve because of the lack of the required college degree. Online programs will allow you to take classes online after working hours so that you can submit your name for that promotion again. Many universities and colleges offer online courses for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate programs. They even offer online certification programs for short courses.
You Don’t Want to Be in Debt
According to the Institute for College Access and Success, the average borrower from the Class of 2017 has outstanding student debt of $28,650. Student debt is a major issue in the United States as more and more borrowers feel that they are “working to pay” for the debts. Most argue that it takes them years of hard work to finish their loans. If you are unsure about your capacity to pay the debt or willingness to get into debt because of a college degree, an online course is the cheaper alternative. You can save on the cost of travel and accommodation, which can range from $10,000 to $12,000 annually. This means lower debts and more savings.
Many people follow the misconception that a degree obtained online is lesser in value than the one you get from having face-to-face classes. Employers are embracing online education like never before. You just have to make sure that the institution you are earning that online degree from is accredited and recognized by state agencies.
