Is Pursuing a Degree Online Right for You?
Each year thousands of military personnel receive their degrees from online—or distance learning—sources. It is a great option for those who are stationed abroad, on a ship, or just don’t have to time to attend traditional classes.
An online degree might be just what you need to meet your educational goals while you serve your country. The flexibility is unparalleled. Often you can make your own schedule and spend as little as one to two hours a day, three times a week to meet the requirements of a course. Options range from taking just a course or two to working on an associate’s degree to working on a master’s.
How Does It Work?
Online classes actually work in a similar format to traditional classes. You will still have a professor, textbooks, exams, homework, papers, etc. However, instead of meeting for class, you will communicate via chat rooms, e-mail, message boards and perhaps streaming video or audio. Generally, each week the professor will designate a chat time for every one to meet and discuss the reading assignment and study questions. Additionally, students will turn in homework and study questions online. You’ll have to spend the same amount of study time as a traditional class to stay on top of things, but you can usually make your study times fit your schedule due to the once-a-week meetings. At the end of the course, you’ll probably have to take a timed test online or write an essay.
How to Succeed in Online Classes
Just because you have the ability to be flexible with your study habits does not mean you should wait until the last minute. If you are dedicated to learning and making high marks, set aside regular study times and actively take part in the online discussions and message board areas.
Is and Online College Degree the Real Deal?
Just look at the big-name institutions that offer online courses including Penn State and the University of Washington. As the Internet has become an increasingly important aspect of our lives, the idea of an online degree has become more and more accepted.
When you are choosing an online school, there are several things to consider:
- Does the school accept MGIB, Tutition Assistance, and ACE credits?
- Does the media format (CD-ROM, e-mail, internet, etc.) fit your needs and personal technology abilities?
- Does the school offer the program you need/ want?
Ready to start searching for the perfect online school? Use our School Finder—it’s fast, simple and it will save you a lot of time in your search for the most compatible, military-friendly schools.
