Distance Education In 2011: What You Should Look For

With nearly every job field now requiring a degree for the best jobs in it, now is the best time to start seeking a degree. Online education has taken the lead over campus-based schools in cost, efficiency and practicality. For this reason, most students in 2011, regardless of age, will be seeking online education. When searching for schools, here are some helpful hints about what to look for:

1. Accreditation - this is the most important aspect of any online school. Accreditation can be verified by using the Department of Education’s online database. Avoid schools that are not accredited, as their curriculum is less than satisfactory of state and national standards.

2. Tuition prices - some online schools offer a special rate to students who are in-state residents. Universities that offer online classes tend to be expensive for out-of-state students. For-profit schools also offer lower rates, but these are offered to students regardless of whether they are in-state or out-of-state.

3. Financial aid - not every online school offers financial aid. Fill out a FAFSA application immediately and if eligibility is determined, seek schools that offer federal financial aid. This will result in the opportunity to receive free grants and low-interest loans.

4. Program degree variety - choose a program that offers the opportunity to advance if desired. Many students who start with an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree program will later decide they want a higher degree. Consider what further options the school has beyond the degree sought. Not every online school takes transfer credits from another, so students who choose one program and want to advance in a different school may face taking the same classes again.

5. Job placement assistance - most online schools, especially for-profit schools, offer a job placement assistance program. Job counseling from guidance counselors, resume assistance and services for finding open positions are some services that are usually included in job placement assistance.

Everyone has a New Year’s resolution; 2011 is the best year to make that resolution earning a degree. Make the future brighter with an education and remember what to look for.