Not everyone has time to go back to school for a degree because they have other priorities and commitments. After all, pursuing a degree is time-consuming and it also costs a lot of money.
The average annual price for a four-year, in-state degree is $20,770, with that number rising for out-of-state tuition and private schools (and a number of other reasons).
Luckily, accredited online and continuing education degree programs have gained steam and credibility. Now more than ever, it’s cheaper and easier to go back to school, which is why we believe there are many benefits of getting your degree online.
Balance and flexibility
Unlike the traditional route of going to classes and having to be on campus at a specific time, an online program allows a student to have flexibility and balance. Thanks to an online setting, a student can typically do schoolwork wherever and whenever he or she wants, although there will still be deadlines students have to meet.
This means online students can have their school schedules work for them instead of the other way around. You can take your learning experience with you and create balance in your life based on all of your commitments, priorities, likes, and interests. Your school schedule doesn’t have to control your life because you can focus on your studies whenever you want.
Finish coursework at your own pace
While online programs still have deadlines attached to coursework, students can finish assignments at their own pace since they don’t have to attend classes at a specific time—they can view online lectures at their own pace and do coursework whenever they want throughout the week. This can help to alleviate the stress that accompanies being a student.
You don’t have to quit your job to go back to school
This is one of the biggest perks of an online degree. Many professionals can’t justify going back to school because they have a full-time job and therefore can’t attend classes when they’re provided.
That’s the beauty of an online program: You can do the readings, assignments, papers, tests, etc., whenever you have the time and you don’t need to go to campus for lectures. As a result, you can continue to be a full-time professional and student.
Save money
Online programs can help save money on fees that accompany in-person degrees, such as parking fees and the price you pay for your commute. Not only that but you are, in theory, saving time since you won’t have a commute because lectures are virtual.
No geographical boundaries
If you want to attend a college in the traditional sense, then you have to be in relative proximity to your desired college. This also means you have to stay in this location while school is in session.
With an online program, you can live wherever you want, take vacations whenever you want, and even do your schoolwork and lectures on the beach, as long as your work is getting finished, of course. This allows online students to take on other priorities and responsibilities, such as a full-time job, with minimal conflicts.
Comfortable learning environment
Not all classrooms are created equal.
Some departments get better equipment than others, which means some learning environments are more comfortable than others. However, in an online setting, you create the environment, which means you can do your work in bed, on the couch, at a coffee shop, or in a coworking space.
There are many reasons to get an online degree. For some people, it’s the most realistic option for going back to school and earning a degree that could lead to better job prospects, a promotion, and self-fulfillment.