There are more online degree programs than ever before.
While that's a good thing, it can be difficult for students to narrow down the choices to those best meeting their needs.
Fortunately, the narrowing down process is easier than it may seem. Step one is for students to ask themselves what they are looking for in an online college or university. As that question is answered, it raises the questions students must answer about the colleges they wish to consider.
The questions below are universal...they are a good starting point. Depending on your needs and preferences, just add to them.
First, students should eliminate from consideration any institutions which are not fully accredited by an agency which has been approved by the United States Department of Education.
Your second question should be whether or not a college offers a major in your area of interest and how its program compares with those elsewhere. Faculty qualifications, the availability of academic concentrations, the specific course offerings and requirements, and how well the program might prepare you for your chosen profession are all areas to investigate.
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. - 16732
While that's a good thing, it can be difficult for students to narrow down the choices to those best meeting their needs.
Fortunately, the narrowing down process is easier than it may seem. Step one is for students to ask themselves what they are looking for in an online college or university. As that question is answered, it raises the questions students must answer about the colleges they wish to consider.
The questions below are universal...they are a good starting point. Depending on your needs and preferences, just add to them.
First, students should eliminate from consideration any institutions which are not fully accredited by an agency which has been approved by the United States Department of Education.
Your second question should be whether or not a college offers a major in your area of interest and how its program compares with those elsewhere. Faculty qualifications, the availability of academic concentrations, the specific course offerings and requirements, and how well the program might prepare you for your chosen profession are all areas to investigate.
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. - 16732
About the Author:
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 education online and online universities.
