The Five Biggest Lies About Online Degree Programs

You've probably heard horror stories about online degree programs. How can an online education be the "real" deal? The five biggest lies about online colleges are probably hindering your rise to success, so let's separate the fact from the fiction.

Lie #1: Online Degree Programs Are Too Expensive

When weighing the cost of education, consider the costs of not having a degree. According to the 2003 Census statistics, a bachelor's degree increases your yearly income by $23,300 more than that of a high school graduate, and a master's degree offers a $34,600 boost.

Want to make even more? Opt for an online bachelor's degree in engineering or a degree in computer technology, two fields that are showing impressive employment growth, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Still not convinced? Consider this: Since online degree programs allow you to work at your own pace, classes can be taken as your budget permits. The goal of online classes is not to break your bank account, but to give you a degree that helps make your bank account grow.

Lie #2: Online Education Is Not Respectable

Nip this lie in the bud with one word: Accreditation. If an online college is accredited, that means it has been reviewed by an organization specifically created to ensure that institutes of higher learning adhere to the basic requirements of quality. If you're concerned about an employer or another education institution not recognizing your degree, make sure the online schools on your short list have accreditation.

It's important to do your research. If an online college is not accredited or is in the process of being accredited, you may be taking a risk when it comes to the reputation of your education.

Lie #3: Employers Don't Take Online Degree Programs Seriously

When online degree programs first became popular, employers were skeptical. But according to Vault.com, 83 percent of employers now recognize that college degrees earned online hold just as much weight as those earned in traditional classrooms. If you worked full-time while going to school, be sure to mention that fact as well--your multi-tasking skills will make that degree even more impressive.

Getting your degree online carries another added bonus: You obviously know how to handle the Internet to get a job done. In an increasingly computerized world, that fact alone gives you an edge over other applicants.

Lie #4: Online Courses Are Easier than Traditional Courses

Many people who take courses online are already working a full-time job. They choose to seek online degree programs because they fit into their already busy schedule. The classes are comparable to those found in a traditional campus setting--the difference is that the person who takes online courses doesn't have the time to go from one class to another on campus.

Online classes are taught by well-educated professors. The class curriculum is just as tough as any other. The classes might have a better fit with your schedule, but what you learn is the same.

Lie #5: You Can't Transfer Credits from an Online College

If the online degree program is accredited, your credits will transfer. How many of them transfer depends upon the particular school you wish to attend, so doing further research into your chosen school is a good idea. Make certain that the school you wish to transfer to recognizes and accepts your online credits.

It's a good idea to plan ahead--if you run into a situation where a class credit doesn't transfer, you've just wasted time. Better to plan ahead and be safe!

The Online Education Lies Are Debunked!

Which online degree program is perfect for your career goals? Your college degree opens the doors to faster advancement and bigger paychecks. Whether you want that bachelor's degree in accounting or that fantastic education in the culinary arts, there is sure to be an online degree program to meet your needs. So what are you waiting for?

Sources

• Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment Statistics

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