Pursuing a degree through the use of online classes has become much easier in recent years. There was a time when only certain degrees could be completed through online colleges. But improvements in technology and different ways to distribute information to students have made it possible for any degree to be completed through internet based study.
Many people appreciate the flexible schedules and the ability to keep their current obligations while attending class. This allows people to spend time with their family, continue to work at their full time job and pursue hobbies while still finding time for their class work.
Most employers are seeing the value of online degrees as well. Gone are the days when managers snicker at a resume that includes a degree from an online college. A recent study shows that more than 60 percent of employers say that they place the same value on a degree from an online college as they do degrees from campus schools.
Completing a Certificate Online
Some people pursue a certificate in order to begin working in a completely new profession. Other people simply wish to improve their abilities in order to move up in their current industry. Earning a certificate is usually a short term affair. Most people are able to finish the necessary coursework in 12 to 18 months.
Another possible scenario is to use the certificate as an entrance into a particular field. Some people choose to begin working as soon as they receive their certificate but continue with their online classes as they work towards a bachelor’s degree or even higher degree.
Here are some common certificates people complete online:
- Technician for medicine labs
- Medical Assistant
- Correction Officer
- Lawyer’s Assistant
- Administrative Assistant
- Hospitality manager
Associate’s Degree from Online Schools
Many people choose to complete their associate’s degree using online classes. Reports from the National Center for Education Statistics show that associate’s degrees represent more than 50% of the degrees completed at online colleges. The reasons for this are varied. Many people are able to start work as soon as they finish their degree. Some people enjoy the freedom of completing core curriculum classes online and then transferring those credits towards a higher degree at another school.
Common associate’s degrees completed online
- Security work
- Assistant to Doctors
- Website design
- Business degrees
Bachelor’s Degree from Online College
There are numerous positions across a wide range of industries that require a bachelor’s degree just to begin work. It usually takes about four years for people to finish their degree requirements if they are taking classes full time. As mentioned earlier, it is possible to complete an associate’s degree and then apply those classes and credits towards your desired bachelor program.
Common bachelor’s degrees completed online
- Education
- Software programming
- Social or Mental Health services
- Nursing
- Finance
Master’s Degree from Online College
A master’s degree is a great way to advance in a career and earn a higher salary. Most of the time people seek out a master’s program in order to become a specialist in a particular area. For example, an accountant may get a master’s degree to specialize only in tax work.
Common master’s degrees completed online
- Marketing
- Accounting
- Administrator of healthcare
- Human Resources
Speeding up the Online Class Process
For those people that currently work full time and have other family obligations, online classes is a very convenient option. There are a few more tips that can make the process even faster.
- If you successfully complete a College Level Examination Program you can actually take a test that will earn you college credits.
- Based on your schedule you should take as many classes as you can. Obviously, the more classes you complete each semester the faster you can finish your degree.
- Inquire with your online school about work experience credits. Some schools will grant credits to people based a number of years working in a particular function.
- Try not to take any lengthy breaks. Once you get enrolled and get in the habit of the school routine you should stick with it until graduation.
The fact about not taking any lengthy breaks is so true! I took a rather long break between my sophomore year and junior year and severely regret it to this day. it was a huge set back and the only thing i leanred in my time off was that not taking a break would have been a smarter choice.