An increasing number of working adults are choosing to pursue online degrees rather than traditional campus-based degree programs.
As students enrolled in online certificate or degree programs are quick to point out, the educational delivery system they have chosen offers them unmatched flexibility. They can do their academic work from anywhere they find themselves, as long as they can access the Internet. Even if they have to travel or if they find themselves swamped at work, they can find time to continue their education.
Of course, because adults enrolled in online education programs need not commute, they save money and time.
No wonder online degree enrollment has experienced incremental growth in recent years. However, as much as online education may appear to be appealing, here are some fairly compelling arguments that can be made for earning a college degree the old fashioned way, even if it is not as convenient.
1. Overall, colleges and universities which offer degrees via online study do not have the reputation for selectivity or academic rigor that their traditional counterparts do.
2. Several states have financial aid programs which provide funding to students in traditional programs, but do not assist students taking online classes.
3. Few colleges and universities offer institutional financial aid to online degree seekers. Many, especially the privates, offer such aid to students enrolled in traditional programs.
4. In surveys, hiring managers often indicate that they are more impressed with traditional than online degrees. As a result, it is possible that someone with an online degree may find it a bit harder to get a competitive job or promotion than an otherwise equal candidate with a traditional degree.
All education can be valuable, and there are certainly many fine online degree programs. However, sometimes a traditional degree program can be your best bet, especially if you are in a highly competitive profession, even if it is far less convenient.
As students enrolled in online certificate or degree programs are quick to point out, the educational delivery system they have chosen offers them unmatched flexibility. They can do their academic work from anywhere they find themselves, as long as they can access the Internet. Even if they have to travel or if they find themselves swamped at work, they can find time to continue their education.
Of course, because adults enrolled in online education programs need not commute, they save money and time.
No wonder online degree enrollment has experienced incremental growth in recent years. However, as much as online education may appear to be appealing, here are some fairly compelling arguments that can be made for earning a college degree the old fashioned way, even if it is not as convenient.
1. Overall, colleges and universities which offer degrees via online study do not have the reputation for selectivity or academic rigor that their traditional counterparts do.
2. Several states have financial aid programs which provide funding to students in traditional programs, but do not assist students taking online classes.
3. Few colleges and universities offer institutional financial aid to online degree seekers. Many, especially the privates, offer such aid to students enrolled in traditional programs.
4. In surveys, hiring managers often indicate that they are more impressed with traditional than online degrees. As a result, it is possible that someone with an online degree may find it a bit harder to get a competitive job or promotion than an otherwise equal candidate with a traditional degree.
All education can be valuable, and there are certainly many fine online degree programs. However, sometimes a traditional degree program can be your best bet, especially if you are in a highly competitive profession, even if it is far less convenient.
About the Author:
Royce Young has taught sociology and marketing at both online colleges and traditional colleges and universities in the Midwest.
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