Online High School Diploma Programs & Courses

A high school diploma is more important than ever in the 21st century workplace. Practically speaking, earning either a high school diploma or General Equivalency Diploma (GED) is a necessity for financial stability. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 1979, the typical high school graduate earned an average of $580 per week, bringing home about $160 to $320 more per paycheck, than the average high school drop-out.

Near the turn of the century, something surprising happened. When computers, the internet, and other technological advances took hold, high paying jobs began to require more skill. By 1998, high school graduates saw a small decrease in weekly earnings of almost 5%, or about $30. High-school drop-outs saw a double-digit drop of almost 20%, from $420 in 1979, to $340 in 1998.

By 2009, the global recession dealt a double-blow, leaving under-educated workers with both high unemployment and small paychecks. This Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) chart from the Current Population Survey shows what many adult learners struggling in today’s workforce already know: More education means more money, and a greater likelihood of securing employment.

Education Pays

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

Most high school diplomas are earned at traditional, four-year, secondary schools after students successfully complete a state-mandated number of credits or semester hours. With the passage of No Child Left Behind in 2001, states were also required to deliver standards-based high school graduation exams, as another condition of receiving a high school diploma.

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For many adult learners with life circumstances that prevent them from regular attendance at day high schools, the traditional high school diploma has become a burden to attain. In some states, adult high schools that offer night classes prove to be a good choice. Some states and private schools also offer online high school programs to earn a diploma. For others, the GED option works best, because of flexible study and ample testing opportunities.

The General Equivalency Diploma, or GED, consists of five sections: math, social studies, science, language arts, reading, and language arts, writing. The language arts, writing, component requires students to write a well-organized essay. A General Equivalency Diploma is nationally recognized by employers, community, and online colleges. Adult education campuses and online programs can help you prepare for the GED.