Traditional and Online Degree Programs: Is there a difference?
There are many similarities between a traditional and an online college. No matter which you choose, higher education is always worthwhile. Earning a traditional or an online degree helps people get better jobs or get more promotions. But, before you pay your tuition or enroll, you should do a little research and a little soul searching. This article should help you do that.
What type of career would I be interested in? An online college might not offer programs in your selected field of study. Generally speaking, you have more choices with a traditional university. It usually depends on how much laboratory or hands-on education is required to enter the field. But, in some cases, colleges allow you to combine Internet classes with traditional classroom work. So, decide upon your field of study first and then choose a university that offers it.
What’s your budget like? Unless your parents set aside a college fund for you, you may need financial aid or a student loan. At one time, you could not get those things unless you attended a traditional university. Now, it is possible to get an online degree, even if your finances are limited. Just be careful.
The Federal Trade Commission has published warnings about deceptive lenders that charge high interest rates or have unreasonable terms for repayment. If you do not qualify for a student loan from your state or federal government, private lenders are an option. But, be sure to read the terms carefully before you apply.
How much time do you really have? You might be able to get an online degree in less time than you could get a traditional one, because you can work at your own pace and classes are less structured. But, don’t be in too big of a hurry to get your diploma.
There are scammers that prey on people’s desire to finish quickly. Their websites often look like that of an online college, perhaps even one that you are familiar with. They charge a flat fee for diplomas that are absolutely worthless. They often promise that you will have your diploma in 90 days or less. Real degrees take a little more time than that.
Do you have the self-motivation that it takes to receive an online degree? The answer to that question should be “yes”. While there are some people that say they lack the motivation, it is really just a matter of habit. It is nearly as easy to develop a good habit as it is to fall into a bad one. Establishing a routine is really helpful.
If you decide that an online college is the right choice for you, it is wise to plan on doing your class work at a specific time of day and promising yourself to stick to that schedule. Students attending traditional universities have to do the same thing.
Andrew Morgan is an adult college student whose interests include online colleges, adult education, and financial aid for online college students.