If you’re looking to further your education, especially these days, you might ask yourself if online education is right for you. Pursuing an online degree can be a flexible and accessible option for many students.
If you think the answer is yes, the next step might be to conduct plenty of research to find the perfect online degree program for your lifestyle and career goals.
We understand that can be overwhelming, but finding the right fit in your school can be a key component to your success and can make the journey smoother along the way.
Here are a few quick tips to help with your online college search:
Do you want to apply for a four-year university, enroll in your local community college or take online trade school courses? Would you rather have hybrid classes or a fully online program? These choices depend on a number of factors, including your learning style, finances, availability and potential career path. One place to start? The Bureau of Labor Statistics website, which gives insights into a variety of potential career fields, as well as the type of education employers might be looking for.
Now that you have a better sense of what you might want to do and what kind of education you might want to pursue, it’s time to get down to business searching for schools near you (or with online programs that can be accessed anywhere). While reading feedback from current and former students can be helpful, it’s also important to ensure you are getting statistics from reputable and accurate sources. The U.S. Department of Education's College Navigator tool collects tuition, graduation rates and other data that can give you some unbiased insight into a variety of online colleges.
Accreditation ensures the school you’re interested in attending has achieved certain academic standards. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation maintains a database of all accredited colleges and universities and lists which body is responsible for their accreditation. For instance, Remington College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges.
You’ve found the perfect fit—or so you think. Make sure the school you’re interested in offers the right program for you, and verify the classes are offered in the format you’re seeking. Read more about the specific program you’re interested in, including the curriculum and classes you might be taking, ensuring it’s the best option for you.
If an online degree program sparks your interest, reaching out to the school’s admissions department is a great way to gain a better understanding of what the school has to offer. Admissions representatives can help you understand what financial aid you may qualify for and what materials you’ll need for your application, and you can ask any questions you might have thought of during your research.
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