Online high school diploma or GED: Which one is right for you?

By Jessica Hanley

Education Articles

You probably know that earnings tend to increase with a college degree, but did you know the correlation between salary and education applies to high school, as well? According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), high school graduates earned approximately $8,500 more than individuals without a diploma in 2008. A high school diploma is also required to earn an associate degree, attend college, and enroll in many vocational programs. By completing your high school diploma, you open the door for higher education down the road. With online high school courses and diploma programs, you can complete your high school coursework regardless of your age or busy schedule.

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What's the difference between the GED and an online high school diploma?

The GED, or General Educational Development Test, is a high-school equivalency exam that tests students on the five subjects commonly studied in high school: mathematics, language arts (reading), language arts (writing, including essay), science, and social studies. In order to take the test, students must be at least 16 years old, not enrolled in high school, and not a high school graduate. Passing the test results in a high school equivalency diploma and qualifies students to apply to college or other postsecondary degree programs. GED preparation courses are available online, but the test must be taken in person at an official testing center. According to the American Council on Education (the creator of the GED), the test can offer the following benefits:

It is accepted as equal to a high school diploma by 96 percent of employers in the U.S.
95 percent of U.S. colleges accept students with the GED credential who meet other admission requirements
The GED offers a high-school-diploma alternative for home-schooled students and those who dropped out of high school

If you feel that you have the knowledge it takes to pass the GED and are eager to earn a diploma, the GED may be a good option. However, if you haven't taken traditional high school courses and wish to expand your knowledge, an online high school diploma program may be a more satisfying alternative.

Online high school diploma programs offer the same well-rounded education as traditional high school, and they demonstrate your commitment to learning. Just like traditional high school curriculum, online high school courses cover a broad range of subjects and encourage the critical thinking and writing skills valued by colleges and employers. Taking high school courses online can also prepare you for online bachelor's degree programs, all without commuting to campus.

What does an online high school diploma program offer?

Online high school diploma programs cover the same coursework you would see in a traditional high school. Each year of high school you need to complete can be completed online over nine months of full-time study. Coursework in online high schools can be just as challenging as that of a traditional high school, but it offers the following features that appeal to busy students:

Flexibility: It's up to you how many online high school courses you take--you can choose to enroll in a full-time semester program or simply take one class you need for graduation.
Convenience: The online course structure means you can attend class from anywhere with an Internet connection. You can also access online material at any time to fit studying around your busy schedule.
Individual Study: Traditional high school classrooms don't work for everyone. Online high school courses offer individualized attention and a front-row seat to classes, without the distractions of traditional high school.

As opposed to taking the GED without finishing high school coursework, earning a high school diploma online lets you delve deeply into subject matter and develop a love of learning. Accredited online high schools are recognized by employers, colleges and vocational schools as valid preparation for postsecondary education.

Expanding your education

From a sense of accomplishment to increased job prospects, earning your high school diploma can benefit your life in myriad ways. Online education has made earning a degree more accessible than ever, and an online high school diploma can pave the way for other online degrees, including associate degrees, bachelor's degrees, and master's degrees. Whatever your age or occupation, it's never too late to reach your educational goals.

About the Author
Jessica Hanley is a writer pursuing a graduate degree in creative writing. Her previous experience includes marketing for the Penguin Young Readers Group and teaching writing to students of all ages. Jessica received a B.A. in English from Stanford University.