The number of colleges and universities offering online degree programs has more than tripled in the last twenty years. Never have there been nearly the number of choices that there are today. While that's something to celebrate, it does give students a lot of institutions to investigate before choosing one. But, it doesn't have to be so tough if you spend a little time thinking and putting together a list of questions. The first question should be to yourself. What are you looking for in an online degree program? As you develop answers to that question you will be well on your way to choosing an online degree program. The questions below are universal...they are a good starting point. Depending on your needs and preferences, just add to them. Accreditation should be a primary concern. Institutions not accredited by a U.S. Department of Education approved agency should be crossed off your list without delay. Any time spent investigating such institutions will be wasted. Rule them out and move on. After accreditation, the next most important questions relate to majors. At which online colleges can you find the major you seek? How many credit hours are required to earn a degree in the major in question? Does the program at any of the colleges offer unique characteristics or special strengths? What degrees do faculty members hold? What experiences have they had in the field? What courses are required? From which elective courses may you choose? All are important questions. You should consider financial variables, of course, but do so carefully. Don't just ask about tuition. It's only part of the puzzle. Find out about the availability of scholarships, grants, loans, and installment payment plans. Next is the question of credit for prior coursework and/or experience. Some institutions offer credit for military training, others do not. Some allow students to apply more transfer credits toward a degree. Many, but not all, will evaluate credit in writing, so students know exactly where they stand. Don't forget that previously earned credit, if accepted, can save you time and money. Don't forget to thoroughly investigate student services, which can vary widely from college to college in both availability and quality. Ask in depth questions about whatever kinds of support are most important to you; financial aid counseling, academic advising, contact with faculty and fellow students, tutoring, job placement, etc. A bit of introspective thinking will help you identify your short and long term goals; both educational and professional. Then, you should have at least a few questions to add to those we have already listed. As your research yields answers to these questions, some colleges will be eliminated almost immediately, some will seem to merit further investigation, and the others will be revealed as a potentially great fit for you. The necessary answers are easy to find once you first find the right questions. The good news is that you now have all the information you need to make a good college choice.
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The number of colleges and universities offering online degree programs has more than tripled in the last twenty years. Never have there been nearly the number of choices that there are today.
Daniel Kane has been assisting students for more than 25 years through his positions in higher education and more than a dozen educational websites on online education and online college degrees. Don't reprint the same version as everyone else. Get your own unique content online education article here.
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