Online Degrees

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Sunday, September 30, 2007

Online Associates Degree For The Self Starter

If you are desirous of furthering your education, but already have a job or both a job and a family, the time and the money may just not be there for you to go back to school. If you are trying to think of a way to accomplish whatever goal you have set for your self, as far as education goes, you might look into getting an online associates degree as the first step.

Many people cannot afford to just quit their job and devote a significant portion of their time going back to school. Or they could live in a more remote area, where it isn't feasible to commute to the nearest school. If this is what you are facing, an online college is a good option.

An online associates degree allows you to get the basics out of the way by taking online courses, with the flexibility that is required for your busy schedule. Considering that the intro-level classes will be somewhat basic, an online associate degree can be a good idea.

Of course, there are some factors that need to be considered before you decide on starting your online college courses, such as:

Are you a self starter? This is important because there will be no one there to insist that you get going in the morning, or the evening, whenever you have scheduled time for your classes.

And are you an independent learner? Can you understand the subject matter, without as much interaction with teachers and professors as you would get in a 'brick and mortar' situation.

Are you able to stick with it on your own and complete the tasks in a timely manner?

Some people thrive and do very well with the cyberspace online courses and others may not.

Do an honest analysis of your own personality and decide if working toward an online associates degree is something you think that you can accomplish. Otherwise, it is possible you will just be wasting your time and money on online college courses.

But this way, if you feel that you are able, you can keep your job and get the education that you need to succeed and meet your goals in life.

By employing the new technology, provided by the internet, you can do all this on a flexible schedule that now allows you to get that college degree online that you may not ever have been able to do, if that had not been available.

After you attain your online associates degree, you may decide that for the next step, you may not want to go for an online bachelors degree, but actually go to a college to complete that next goal in your education plan.

Whatever you decide to do, the important thing is to get started.

Earning an online degree can be a rewarding experience if you have the personality to stick with it. For more information and resources go to http://www.onlinedegree.superiorcollegedegree.info

Thursday, September 27, 2007

Most Popular Online Degrees

Online degrees have made it easier than ever for people to advance their opportunities in the world. Students who lack the flexibility to pursue a full-time residential education at a university or college can now obtain a degree in the field of their choice through numerous online alternatives. But what, specifically, are the most popular disciplines in which students are enrolling these days? The answers are: Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Psychology and Health Administration.

1. Business Administration: Most studies confirm that Business Administration is usually at the top of the list when it comes to the actual number of student enrollments at a particular online university. Degrees in Business Administration offer students a wide array of knowledge regarding the corporate world and are almost a necessity for acquiring upper-level positions at any type of financial or business-related institution. Obtaining a degree in Business Administration can help secure a job in areas such as Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing and International Business.

2. Criminal Justice: Criminal Justice is also currently a very attractive field for online students. Degrees in this area can lead to jobs in corrections, law enforcement and the court system. More and more people are deciding to pursue an education that explores everything from police patrol procedures to forensic science to anti-terrorism tactics. Students acquire expertise in the study of criminals, the treatment of offenders and the process of making laws. Moreover, this discipline allows students to apply analytical thinking to real world situations, as well as to develop administrative skills for the criminal justice system.

3. Psychology: Psychology is another very popular discipline in online education today. An increasing number of people are becoming interested in psychology-related jobs, such as those in counseling, clinical research, neuroscience, social psychology, school psychology, industrial psychology, forensic psychology, developmental psychology, experimental psychology and research psychology. Although obtaining online bachelor-level degrees is very popular and readily available, becoming a licensed therapist usually requires further education - namely, a master's degree. Fortunately, master's degrees in psychology are available online as well!

4. Health Administration: Finally, online courses in Health Administration are also becoming some of the more sought-after degrees. Students can prepare to direct medical activities, such as nursing, therapy, equipment delivery services, record management and preventive care. An increasing number of individuals seeking to improve the overall system of health care are enrolling in online courses designed to make them experts in the progressive field of health administration.

elearnportal is an information resource center for finding high quality, online college courses and degrees

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Considering An Online MBA - An Investigation Into Accreditation and Pricing for 10 Programs

Introduction

It should come as no surprise that the Master of Business Administration (MBA) is highly coveted by many business professionals. And for good reason. Earning an MBA can potentially lead to more responsibility and greater income. Based on surveys conducted by the Graduate Management Admissions Council, MBA graduates tend to experience a 41 percent salary increase on average after receiving the degree. However, it should be noted that additional factors, such as job function, industry, location, and job-related experience also heavily influence salary increases when combined with an MBA degree.

Popularity

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, business majors comprise the second largest academic discipline for graduate degrees after education majors. During a 25-year period spanning 1980 until 2005, business-related graduate degrees increased by 114 percent. In an August 2007 BusinessWeek article, the publication noted that over two-thirds of existing part-time MBA programs reported more application submissions from domestic students than in 2006.

B-School Accreditation

First, an understanding of business school (B-school) accrediting can prove useful in better assessing the quality of a college or university's business curriculum. Business schools are usually accredited by one of three agencies: The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), and the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE). U.S. institutions must also hold regional accreditation.

AACSB, founded in 1916, is the oldest and largest such accrediting agency. The most prestigious B-schools in the United States - Harvard, MIT, the University of Chicago, and all flagship state universities - hold AACSB accreditation. Of 551 collegiate B-schools listed in the AACSB-accredited directory, 94 reside outside the U.S. AACSB-accreditation is widely regarded in academic circles as the gold standard for B-school approval.

ACBSP began operations in 1988 as an alternative to the AACSB. Of the 403 member institutions, 297 have received accreditation. Noteworthy schools with ACBSP accreditation are Kent State University, Norwich University, Troy University, and the University of Toledo.

IACBE, having formed in 1997, is the most recent addition to the list of B-school approving entities. The organization claims more than 200 domestic and international members. Aside from locally known institutions, perhaps the most recognizable IACBE member is the now-independent University of Maryland University College (UMUC). UMUC was begun in 1947 to provide an extension for the AACSB-accredited University of Maryland.

Shopping for an Online MBA Program

If used correctly, internet search engines can function as effective tools when shopping for an online MBA program. However, prospective students are urged to exercise caution. Aside from numerous offerings by a variety of colleges, many unaccredited schools can also display in search results. The key is to determine if a selected MBA program could provide an efficient Return On Investment (ROI).

Ten Online MBA Programs - A Comparison

A survey of tuition rates was conducted for ten online MBA programs listed below. Programs are divided into two groups. For this survey, tuition rates are based on general or management MBA degree concentrations.

Group I includes American InterContinental University, Capella University, Kaplan University, University of Phoenix, and Walden University.

Group II universities are Clarion University of Pennsylvania, Mississippi State University, Morehead State University in Kentucky, University of South Dakota, and Western Kentucky University.

Group I - The first five MBA programs are heavily advertised by for-profit schools and frequently appear in Google or Yahoo search results.

- American InterContinental University (AIU)

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: None. Hours required: 48 credit hours. Cost per credit hour: $645.33. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $30,975.

- Capella University

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: ACBSP. Hours required: 48 credit hours. Cost per credit hour: $605. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $29,040.

- Kaplan University

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: None. Hours required: 52 quarter credit hours. Cost per credit hour: $395. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $20,540.

- University of Phoenix

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: ACBSP. Hours required: 39 credit hours. Cost per credit hour: $612. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $23,868.

- Walden University

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: None. Hours required: 36 semester hours. Cost per credit hour: $685, includes textbooks. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $24,660.

Group II - The next five online MBA programs are offered by public universities, and listed for comparative purposes. When comparing degree options, it is important to note tuition costs and accreditation.

- Clarion University of Pennsylvania

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: AACSB. Hours required: 33 semester hours. Cost per credit hour: $402 in-state/$416 out-of-State. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $13,728.

- Mississippi State University

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: AACSB. Hours required: 30 semester hours. Cost per credit hour: $473 in-state and out-of-state. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $14,190.

- Morehead State University (Kentucky)

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: AACSB. Hours required: 36 semester hours. Cost per credit hour: $355 in-state and out-of-state. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $12,780.

- University of South Dakota

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: AACSB. Hours required: 33 semester hours. Cost per credit hour: $269.35 in-state and out-of-state. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $8,889.

- Western Kentucky University

Regional Accreditation: Yes. Professional B-school Accreditation: AACSB. Hours required: 30 semester hours. Cost per credit hour: $421 in-state and out-of-state. Total Tuition Cost Based on Present Rates: $12,630.

Program information current as of September 17, 2007. Data collected from respective university websites.

Conclusion

As evidenced above, accreditation and cost differences between programs are dramatic in some cases. For example, the most expensive program in Group II (Mississippi State) costs $6,000 less than the least expensive program (Kaplan) in Group I. American InterContinental University's $30,000 online MBA is almost 3 1/2 times more expensive than a similar online offering through the University of South Dakota that goes for roughly $8,900. Not one of the more expensive online MBA programs in Group I holds AACSB accreditation.

Prospective students are strongly advised to conduct as much research as possible before choosing a program. A few hours spent critically examining various schools and asking questions can potentially save thousands of dollars.

Paul closely monitors online college degree programs in the USA. His blog, e-Learning Pundit, focuses on the many distance degree opportunities that are often lost in cyberspace.

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

The Pros and Cons of Getting an Online Education

Today, an increasing amount of students are exploring the convenience and flexibility of obtaining an online education. While Internet colleges and universities have become the rage over the years, there are many other methods of e-learning that span the likes of elementary-age students to senior learners. With the various types of online educational options one may choose, there are also a range of advantages and disadvantages that come with seeking an online degree or certificate.

Advantages of an Online Education

Regardless of the age at which a student enters an online learning environment, there are plenty of benefits that come with this type of schooling. For many, the accessibility is a relief, as online classes are attended anywhere an Internet connection is found. This is great for homebound or bed-ridden students who are unable to physically attend their classes. In many cases, the overall cost of an online education is less expensive than traditional means of learning. This is especially seen within the higher education scene.

Online schools also offer a wide range of varying subject matters that allow students to fulfill their requirements for an intended course of study. A higher level of opportunity is offered with an online education, as seen with students learning the Spanish language who can actually connect with native speakers situated halfway across the world. This ability to expand communication and interaction further enhances the benefits and impact of receiving an online education.

Online students also take advantage of the fact that time is not an issue, as they are able to attend lectures, complete coursework, and take exams when it is convenient. Schedules are flexible where a student can easily choose the times of the day (or night) that best fit into their daily routine. This is great for students who wish to complete assignments after their job or at-home mothers who wish to study when the kids are taking a nap.

Lastly, the availability of schooling materials are accessible on the Internet, meaning there are no extra costs for purchasing expensive books and other learning tools. Online schools post necessary documents, transcripts, live discussions, downloadable reading, and emails for students to use. When questions for an instructor arise, they are generally answered quickly through emails, forums, and chat rooms.

Disadvantages of an Online Education

As for the disadvantages that come with online learning, it is important to seek out legitimate institutions, as some online degrees and certificates are not accepted or accredited by other schools when one is looking for a transfer. There are also certain types of companies that do not acknowledge schooling completed online. When using the Internet to obtain an education, most interaction between teachers and schoolmates are completed through emails and online "chatting," meaning oral communication skills are neglected.

When younger individuals rely on the Internet for their education, they miss out on the many opportunities to cultivate their social skills. Some sink deep into isolation. Typical coming-of-age experiences are also passed on, such as going to the prom, senior activities and participating in competitive sports.

Want to know more about Online Education? Check out http://www.cbph.org/onlineeducation/onlineeducation.html
This article is contributed by cbph.org (Online Education)

Thursday, September 13, 2007

Online Degrees - Get Informed Fast

Today the Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation recognize the Distance Education and Training Council as the only accrediting organization for distance learning institutions and all of the education programs that offer online degrees. Now there are even consortiums formed of universities, such as the Canadian Virtual University, which offers no courses or degrees, but simply acts as a portal for courses from 14 universities all across Canada. Online colleges, that are fully accredited, have earned a widely recognized form of university accreditation from one of six regional accreditation boards.

One survey found 55 percent of employers preferred traditional degrees over online degrees. In 1996, the University of Colorado at Denver in the US, expanded its metropolitan campus with the formation of CU Online, creating one of the first fully accredited online education programs offering online university degrees. Many people are earning a bachelor, masters or doctorate degree online in their field of interest whether it's an online nursing degree they want or online education degree, online psychology degree, or even an online criminal justice degree. All without conforming to a traditional, time consuming schedule.

The term online degrees refers to college degrees (sometimes including high school diplomas and non-degree certificate programs) that can be earned primarily or entirely through the use of a computer connected to the Internet, rather than attending college in a traditional campus setting. Today, you can earn a bachelors degree, master's degree or graduate degree online from a major university without ever having been in one of their classrooms. Some experts argue that degrees in certain fields are more accepted online than in others, while some programs are less suited for online-only schools.

Some of the types of online degrees available today include: associate degree, bachelor degree, master degree and doctorate degree online. Ask the institutions you're considering for references. Its been reported that employers feel that an employee receiving an online education degree compared favorably, in terms of knowledge learned, to someone with a resident degree.

Types of online degrees available today include: interior design degree online, online law degree, education online, engineering degree online, online paralegal degree, online computer science degree and online history degree. Now some of the types of degrees include: business degree online, online nursing degree, online education degree, online psychology degree, paralegal degree online, online computer science, online accounting degree, MBA degree online and online teaching degree. To determine whether you'd make a good online student ask yourself if you're someone who gets things done ahead of time or puts them off until the very last minute.

You can research scholarships online but make sure to be aware of scholarship scams. Other types of online degrees also include: business administration degree online, online computer degree, online marketing degree, online biology degree, online doctoral degree, online degree, online IT degree, electrical engineering degree online, online graphic design, online animal behavior and online theology degree. Graduates of the online degree program will be a good source of recommendations and make sure to ask about anything they think you should be aware of.

There are many advantages to online learning or e-learning. And make sure you know that your online degree credits will be transferable into the college or university you plan to attend if you plan to transfer in the future; check and double-check with the counselor at that school. Keep in mind there are plenty of education loans available if you can't locate grants or scholarships.

For more information on choosing the best online degree program, accredited bachelor degree online and finding the best online degree scholarships, grants, education loans or financing go to http://www.OnlineDegreesTips.com for tips, help, facts, free resources, including information on all types of online degrees

Saturday, September 08, 2007

Getting Your Accounting Degree Online

So, now that you've decided to get your degree in Accounting, have you considered earning your degree online? Distance learning used to mean getting courses via snail mail or on videotape but now, since the advent of the internet, online education is a reality for anyone interested in continuing their education but is looking for more flexibility.

Online learning expands the reach of the classroom by using various technologies to deliver university resources to off-campus sites. The technology for new, cheaper telecommunications is getting better all the time, and there is a growing demand for education by people who cannot afford either the time or money to be a full-time, on-campus student. To fill that demand, educational networks also are growing and changing how and when you can access college courses. Most states have established new distance learning systems to advance the delivery of instruction to schools, postsecondary institutions, and state government agencies.

What online education now means is that you can access educational programs and not have to physically be in a classroom on a campus. Through a reliable Internet connection, the classroom comes to you sometimes even if you're sitting in your room in your bunny slippers and it's 2 in the morning.

Whether you prefer an Ivy League University or your local state college, nearly every educational facility has the capacity to present at least some of its curriculum online. You will also find that some courses allow you to enroll at your convenience and work at your own pace. Others closely adhere to a traditional classroom schedule. Specific policies and time limitations pertaining to withdrawals, refunds, transfers, and renewal periods can be found in the institutional catalog.

So, what degree programs in Accounting are available? Well, you are in luck Accounting is one of the largest fields available online! You can earn everything from an Associates degree to an accounting Doctorate degree (both PhD and DBA) all from the comfort of your living room. You can easily earn your online accounting degree while keeping your current job.

Many accountants also choose to become CPAs. CPAs are distinguished from other accountants by stringent state and licensing requirements, including education, examination, and experience. CPAs working in public practice are also required to take Continuing Professional Educational (CPE) courses to keep current on all facets of CPA services. They must adhere to a strict code of professional ethics that the public recognizes and respects highly. CPAs are among the most extensively trained and experienced tax advisors. There are plenty of online courses available to help prepare you to sit for the CPA exam, as well as distance learning courses available to fulfill any and all continuing education needs to maintain your CPA status.

In face, once you've attained your Accounting Degree, you can further your education and continue your professional development in all areas of accounting entirely online, making it much easier to maintain your work and family life while improving and further honing your skills.

Whatever your goal, if you are computer savvy, able to budget your time accordingly, and have the flexibility to try learning in a new way well, then online learning might be the right way for you to pursue your dreams of an accounting degree.

http://www.topaccountingdegrees.com/getting-your-accounting-degree-online

Monday, September 03, 2007

Earn an Online Education Degree

Nowadays, everyone can earn an online degree in diverse fields of education and employment industries through online courses. These courses are accessible 24/7. Everyone can gain access to fully-accredited online coursework and degree programs without ever having to leave their own homes or personal offices.

Online courses range from arts and humanities, health and medicine, business, science and technology, computers, social sciences, education and teaching, trades and careers, and many more. You have a lot of courses to choose from.

Pursuing an online education can get you either a bachelor's degree or an associate's degree in one of the many courses that are offered. There are also a wide variety of online schools available.

Online education is much less expensive compared to traditional school. This is so since you can save on travel, time and the cost of the courses itself. You can also get your degree much quicker and easier in online education than in traditional college.

How do you know what courses is right for you with such a huge choices of online education? You can consider these some pointers before making a decision.

These can range from:

� advancing your career,

� seeking a raise, or

� an eagerness to learn new skills or new knowledge.

It is important that you have motivation in order for you to achieve your online degree successfully. Self-motivation is very important since there is no one there that is forcing you to attend class or turning in your assignments.

Presently, hundreds of online schools, universities and colleges cater to the needs of working persons and/or homebound individuals. You can earn Doctorate's as well not just an Associate's Degree.

Several advantages to pursuing a degree or training online are there such as doing it at your own speed in your own time. You can also get loans, financial aid and flexible financing just like any other traditional schools. Just make sure that the online university you are enrolling to is accredited in order for your credits to be recognized in your chosen industry.

If you like this article... you might also like my other must-read articles about Online education at http://online-education-secrets.useful-tips.com/