Students today are entering, through distance learning degree programs education, into a new type of university. With the advent of affordable and accessible college courses offered over the Internet, there are more opportunities than ever to complete a course or a degree program without leaving home.
Distance Learning Degree Programs - Student Services
When you decide to enroll in a distance education program, a number of items are important in making the experience positive and meaningful. The checklist should include:
Access. Make sure you can access all academic and support areas through email, phone, or fax. You should be required to visit locations in person either seldom or not at all. Many students report that they are drawn to colleges with distance learning degree programs that have few entrance requirements--or those that at least eliminate those entrance requirements aimed at traditional residential students. |
Flexibility in Program Design. Distance learning degree programs should be flexible in enabling you to utilize transfer credits; in obtaining college credit for successful outcomes on national examinations such as CLEP, DANTES, etc.; in having workplace training and education assessed for college credit; and in offering a specialization within a degree program designed to build on your educational objectives. Look for a program that allows you to complete course work through a variety of distance education methodologies rather than relying on one method for the entire degree program, especially at the undergraduate level. Completing all 40 courses for a baccalaureate degree solely through your PC could be a recipe for burnout.
Distance Learning Degree Program Academic Advisor. Inquire as to whether there is someone available to work with you from start to finish-someone who can answer any questions that arise regarding the course or degree program in a timely manner and who will serve as a positive influence throughout your online education.
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Distance Learning Degree Programs—Financial Aid Assistance. Confirm that you will have access to all applicable financial aid information regarding available programs and student eligibility, and that financial aid staff are available to help you complete and process the required paperwork. Information on loans, college scholarships, and grant programs as well as on eligibility for federal, state, and private financial aid are all important to anyone seeking financial assistance. You should be given a clear understanding of what they are required to do if granted financial aid and have a source of information if any questions arise.
Distance Learning Degree Programs—Registration Process. There should be clear instructions regarding the registration process, with staff available to assist you in completing this process quickly and easily from a distance. Look for programs that offer online registration and/or toll-free registration numbers rather than on-site, arena-style registration.
Distance Learning Degree Programs—Tuition and Fees. Clearly defined tuition and fees, as well as any other expenses you will incur, are instrumental in determining the total cost of your education. Be aware of hidden costs that many times are not reimbursed by employers who pay only tuition. There are many institutions that have dramatically increased various fees while maintaining low annual tuition rates.
Distance Learning Degree Programs—Library, Computer, and Other Support Structures. Check into what kind of support structure is offered to complete the required course work, such as library access, Internet sites to obtain materials, and access to textbook providers via email, phone, and fax. Make sure you know the exact computer specifications, both hardware and software, required for completion of the course work. A technical help desk should also be provided.
Distance Learning Degree Programs—Sympathetic Faculty. In most cases, students completing courses from a distance have professional and personal priorities that can get in front of their educational priorities. It is important, from a student standpoint, that faculty have experience mentoring students from a distance and realizing the full-time work responsibilities that many students have while engaged in such programs. Because of the demands on students, faculty may need to be flexible regarding assignment deadlines and requirements. If you're employed full-time, seek out classes that allow you to apply your work experience to class assignments.
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