The Bright Tomorrow of Online Education

Online education will play a major role in the future of postsecondary education in America. Colleges and universities are scrambling to be aboard, and state legislatures, with long-term economy in mind, are making major commitments of support. There are, however, many hurdles before viable cost-effective/learning-effective online education programs are in common use. At this point, the majority of programs is simply an extension of passive lecture or lecture discussion through electronic means. Few institutions understand the economies of these programs, nor have they faced the structural changes that are required. As important, institutions have not understood the quality and accessibility of programs that will be needed to meet the challenge from private sector initiatives.

"You Can't Predict the Future But You Can Plan for It"

The following are ten important questions concerning the future of distance learning:

• Will faculty adapt? The pay isn't great, but the job of a full-time faculty member is really very nice. By tradition a faculty member controls his own work; functions independently; gets to perform by lecturing; and has adequate time for study, reflection and interaction with stimulating colleagues. The use of technology in education, and particularly in distance learning, requires cooperation, teamwork, performing a role in an organized structure, more effort in design than in delivery, and less self-directed time. Quite simply, it is counter-culture for faculty. Will sufficient numbers of faculty adjust to permit institutions to design and deliver educational services in new ways?

• Will online education grow through shadow colleges? In many instances, rather than face the obstacles presented by traditional faculty, the existing work rules, union contracts, and faculty attitude, many institutions have created new organizations outside of the basic institution. These organizations have new salary schedules, reward systems and work policies. Will this be the only way that colleges can restructure? Can these organizations exist within traditional institutions?

• Will college administrations adopt new, more sophisticated planning and/or management systems? While it will be difficult for faculty to adapt to new delivery arrangements, it will also be difficult for administration. In educational budgets, management has typically been concerned with only three variables -- classrooms, mean class size and professors. The use of information technology and online education introduces a myriad of new cost elements that have to be worked into the basic cost structure. New and more sophisticated planning/management systems must be put into place, or the new arrangements will simply cost more and will not be practical to initiate.

• Will state bureaucracies establish a single online education institution? It is no secret that in recent years state legislatures and bureaucracies have increased their control and decision-making with regard to public higher education. In a number of states significant appropriations are being made to develop infrastructures for distance learning. The question that will be asked is, "if distance programs are expensive to develop, and if all of our sites are tied together, why not have one organization that delivers these services statewide." Colleges and universities need to prepare to answer that question.

• Will funds become available to develop quality learning software that uses the full capability of information technology? To date, substantial state appropriations for online education have gone for infrastructure, equipment and networks. While these are useful, there is real question as to the need for these expenditures. There are so many networks (for example, the Internet) available to use. Important advancements in learning can be made if significant appropriations are shifted to learning software. This software should use the full capabilities of information technology and the research on adult learning.

• How will learning be certified? In the United States each institution basically makes its own decisions with regard to what learning will be credited. Very often decisions are based on a well entrenched "not invented here" syndrome. As increasing numbers of individuals register for courses and learn through a wide array of institutions, there will be a demand from the public for that learning to be assessed and credited toward degrees and certificates.

• Can colleges keep their certification monopoly? The strongest cards that colleges and universities hold in competing with private organizations in online education are prestige and certification control. To keep the certification monopoly. Colleges and universities are going to have to work with other organizations and be considerably more accommodating in recognizing learning that was not provided by their institution.

• How will on-campus and distance use of technology integrate? Much present online education is simply the extension of the lecture classroom to distance locations. But, there are few examples of the instructional software designed for distance coming back into use on campus. Materials that are developed that are time and place independent. As well as time variable. Can be used on campus with the addition of more interaction with college staff. This would provide new options for students and increase student volume. Thus providing more capability for greater expenditures on development of quality educational software.

• How can we substitute for the inspiration of personal interaction with faculty members? In all of my years at Miami-Dade Community College, I never received a letter complementing a college program without reference to a faculty member or other staff member who had inspired or contributed to the development of the writer. Almost all of us can point to an individual, very often a faculty member, who had major impact on our lives. Is there a way to keep that inspiration in an online education situation? Is there something to be substituted?

Mathew Simond is a journalist and copywriter. He is also a webmaster of many websites including http://www.paralegal-degree.org and http://www.humanservicesdegree.net He aims to provide healthy information and advice on academic degrees.

Online Learning - An Effective Way of Getting Educated

The Internet is more than a way to look up Web pages of suppliers, travel agents, and retailers. It has become a whole new way to further education, both formal and informal.

Such education, called e-Learning, allows organizations and individuals the opportunity to progress at a pace that is comfortable for the student, while fitting into his or her daily work schedule.

Companies such as Nabisco, Raytheon, and McGraw-Hill use e-Learning as a means to help educate their work forces. For these organizations, Web-based education provides their employees an opportunity to improve their productivity, capabilities, and job performance in a format that is compatible with most schedules.

For individuals, e-Learning allows them the opportunity to grow and improve their job standing and marketability, while not taking too much time away from work and family life.

Web-based learning can be separated into several categories:
• Professional courses for continuing education or graduate credit
• Professional courses simply to learn a new skill or to improve an existing one
• Training courses, sponsored by the employer, designed to improve an employee's skills
• Courses taken for the sake of learning something new, disregarding all credits.

Credit courses

Continuing education and graduate credit courses are offered by myriad universities and professional organizations. Many independent study courses, which were previously offered through various departments, are now accessible via the Internet.

For starters, the University of California at Los Angeles, The University of Michigan, Seton Hall University, San Diego State University, and The Ohio State University are just a handful of the universities offering classes via the Internet.

Eastern Michigan University started its online programs 3 years ago with 100 students in 14 classes. Today, the school has more than 700 students taking such classes, and continuing education director Kathy Randles says that more than 100 students are on waiting lists because enrollment is full in many of the classes.

For those who simply want to develop new skills, many Web sites are offering Internet courses covering everything from Windows 2000 secrets to efficient use of palm-top computers. For instance, Headlight.com offers courses that prepare users for certification exams or improving basic skills.

Other sites that offer such courses include Trainingnet.com, Smartplanet.com, and Hungryminds.com. These sites offer a variety of courses designed to help students better their skills.

Employers offer courses

Employer training courses obviously vary by employer. However, they are generally set up by a consultant or manager and designed to provide employees education at a cost that is relatively low for the employer. For instance, Nabisco produces e-Learning programs that are about 50% of the cost of the industry average. Included in this savings is the reduction in costs associated with printing large employee manuals those are done electronically.

Finally, Internet courses are available that allow students to bone up on skills that may or may not be related to their work. For instance, Learn2.com, while offering a variety of business courses, also has tutorials on a variety of subjects, including how to tie knots, make sushi, train your dog, and research your family tree.

Which Ways Online Education can be Useful?

First of all, each site differs somewhat, but most operate somewhat similarly. A "class" will consist of an instructor and up to 20 students. The instructor is usually an experienced professional in the field; however, most university courses are taught by professors. The students will have backgrounds that vary greatly-it is not uncommon for all 20 students in a class to come from 20 different states!

The big difference between online learning and conventional classes is that you will have no classroom to go to. You will have dialogues with your instructor and the other students, however, these will be mostly by e-mail or in chat rooms. Your course will have a schedule, but much of that schedule revolves around your convenience. You decide when you want to "attend" class, read lectures, and ask or answer questions. The only deadlines are when your coursework is due.

When communicating in your online course, you generally have two options: posting your comments on a bulletin board for the entire class to see, or privately e-mailing them to the instructor or classmate of your choice.

Most online educators request that you check your e-mail at least once a day to ensure you don't fall behind in your coursework; the caveat of online learning is that it is independent study and does require discipline.

In fact, course managers and administrative personnel with the site will often contact you if they notice you have missed picking up a lecture.

Online learning differs from the correspondence courses of the past because there is actual interaction between students. Correspondence courses require you to read material and answer questions based on what you have read. Online education has the same guidelines; however, you can bounce some ideas off another student perhaps 1,000 miles away to get a different perspective on your thoughts.

In addition, an advantage of e-Learning is that students are not limited by the proximity of the class to their homes. For instance, a student in San Diego who cannot find an appropriate class in that area can take classes at Eastern Michigan University without having to worry about navigating the 2,000-mile trip.

Online students should expect to spend about 10 to 15 hours per week on their coursework. This will, of course, vary depending on the subject matter, but there is a commitment involved.

The nice thing is you can spend those hours when you want to and not have to commute to a classroom at a specific time.

Self-study courses

Many Web sites also offer pure self-study courses. These courses are not led by an instructor. Instead, the student will have access to materials posted on the site and will test on the information covered after studying it. Most often, these courses cover subject matter where a certification is not needed-students taking these courses are generally taking them for the information value only.

Usually, self-study courses are free, or at the least, very inexpensive.

For someone who is interested in personal development, e-Learning is an ideal option to study without having the added concerns of scheduling, commuting, or logistics.

The prospects are there. But the commitment must be strong. You will be on your own, and what you learn will be up to you.

Mathew Simond is a journalist and copywriter. He is also a webmaster of many websites including http://www.paralegal-degree.org and http://www.humanservicesdegree.net He aims to provide healthy information and advice on academic degrees.

Finding An Online Degree To Fit Your Needs

Many people searching for an online school that will meet their needs can become intimidated by the academic terms used on many college and career websites. It's important to be clear about which degree is the right one for you. Although programs and curriculums vary from school to school, having a basic understanding of the scope and purpose of each type of degree will help you determine which online degree may be best suited for your career and professional needs.

A note on accreditation: Determine whether or not the schools you are considering are accredited. This website only lists accredited schools. See our article on the importance of accreditation for more information.

Types of Online Degrees

Over half of all online students are enrolled in 2-year colleges. Because of the variety and usefulness of 2-year online programs, many are using them to advance their careers, develop specialized skills, or prepare themselves for transfer to a 4-year baccalaureate program. Two year colleges usually take 4 semesters of about 15 credit hours each (considered full time) and require completion of 60 credit hours. Two year college programs generally have 3 components:

· General education/Liberal arts and sciences courses

· Major/Specialized courses (if you are concentrating on a specific discipline)

· Electives (Courses you choose to compliment the rest of your program)

If your plans include the possibility of transferring to a 4-year college after completing your associates degree, you will need to check with the 4-year colleges you're interested to see which courses will be accepted for transfer. Many 4-year colleges will only accept the general education/liberal arts courses as equivalent; others are more liberal, especially with online business and liberal arts programs.

Associate degrees are usually given by technical, community or junior colleges. Some 2-year colleges are housed within a larger college or university that offers more advanced degrees. You can carry a part-time load, if that suits your purposes and lifestyle, but usually financial aid is only extended to fulltime students. On the other hand, if you want to accelerate your studies and finish early, speak with an advisor at the school to make sure you are following the required sequence of courses.

Associate of Arts (A.A.): The Associate of Arts degree is granted for completion of (primarily) general education or liberal arts courses. This type of online degree is useful for students who plan on transferring to a 4-year college after receiving their A.A. degree, or want a broad, non-specialized knowledge base.

Associate of Science (A.S.): The Associate of Science degree also has a core of liberal arts and sciences courses that must be completed, but unlike the A.A. degree, also has a core of early division prerequisite courses in specialized fields such as engineering, science, math, and agriculture, that require certain courses before continuing with the desired program at the 4-year baccalaureate level.

Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.): The Associate in Applied Science degrees are not intended for transfer to 4-year colleges, but geared toward preparing the student for a specific occupation upon graduation. These programs offer a wide variety of specialized programs that allow you to join the workforce in the field you have chosen. If you later plan to attend a 4-year school, they likely will transfer only the liberal arts/general education credits earned.

Online Certificate and Diploma Programs

Career Certification Programs: Sometimes called Occupational Certificate Programs, career certificate programs are generally intensive programs in a specific area of job related expertise. Usually 18 credits or longer, certificate programs are designed to provide the necessary skills so that the student can begin work in a specific occupation upon completion of the program. A wide variety of practical training courses exist online. They take less than 2 years to complete.

High School Diploma (G.E.D.): Anyone desiring a high school diploma can earn it at home. Online G.E.D. programs will allow you to finish this important basic degree. If English is a second language, or reading has been difficult for you, there are programs online to help you get that diploma. Some 2-year colleges also incorporate obtaining a G.E.D. into their first year program.

4 Year Online Degree Programs

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.): The Bachelor of Arts degree is a 4-year "undergraduate" degree, requiring at least 120 credit hours (including any transfer credits accepted from accredited programs). The B.A. degree is granted after the successful completion of the equivalent of 4 years full time study with heavy emphasis in liberal arts and sciences, providing a broad, non-specialized knowledge base. Online programs conferring a B.A. degree can sometimes be completed in less than 4 years.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.): The Bachelor of Science degree also requires the completion of at least 120 credit hours, with a strong core of liberal/general education courses, but is discipline specific. This means you must declare a "major" by choosing to concentrate in a specific subject area, then complete required courses in that particular discipline, along with electives that will round out your undergraduate program. You will work with a counselor or advisor to plan your program so that you will have everything completed in the correct sequence before graduation. Following graduation, many people continue on to graduate (master's level) programs to build on the knowledge gained and increase their potential for greater earnings.

Online Masters Degree Programs

Master of Arts (M.A) and Master of Science (M.S): Master's degrees programs are available online in many areas. There are good reasons to continue with higher education after receiving your bachelor's degree. A master's degree will give you continued depth and expertise in an area, and opens up doors for higher paying jobs in many areas.

Master's level programs can be from 30 to 60 credit hours long, depending on the discipline or profession.Correspondingly, it will take from 1-4 years to complete. The work is more focused on a specialty area and research of some sort is usually involved. Sometimes a master's level degree will be included with a doctoral program, but most times you will need to complete your master's work before beginning work on your doctorate.

Two popular types of specialized master's programs are listed here. Again, be sure you check to see if the online program you're interested in is accredited.

Online Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.): An M.B.A degree is an advanced degree in business management and is a highly valuable asset to the person who desires a leadership role in the business world. Online programs do an excellent job of preparing a student for the top paying jobs the M.B.A. will qualify them for. A related degree which is becoming more popular is the master's degree in information technology, or M.I.T..

Online Master of Education (M.Ed.): Online master's degrees in education are becoming a popular choice for teachers already in the profession seeking to further develop their skills and move to a higher pay bracket. A M.Ed. or M.S. in Education usually requires the completion of 36 -48 credit hours. Some programs will accept a limited amount of transfer credits. Those graduating from 4-year colleges go directly to a master's program and enter the working world equipped with an advanced degree. Because each state has its own requirements for licensing or certification of teachers, it is wise to check with your state for specific course requirements.

An online master's level program is offered in nearly every field and discipline. Finding the program that fits your goals and lifestyle will take some time, but the benefits of an advanced degree are many.

Online PhD Programs:

Doctorate degrees are the highest level of degree programs available and imply the highest level expertise in a given discipline. Programs can be combined with a master's program, but most students finish their master's degree before going on for their doctorate. Entering a doctoral program is a big decision. It can take 4 to 6 years to complete and involves concentrated, high level study and research under the direction of leaders in that field of study. A doctorate degree, or Ph.D., will allow you to teach at the college level, take positions of leadership in the area of study, or conduct research in that area. All doctoral programs involve research and publishing on the special area you choose. Top paying jobs in any field are usually held by those holding a Ph.D. or equivalent. Some of the most popular online doctoral degrees are:

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D

Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)

Doctor of Engineering (D.Eng.)

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA)

Doctor of Public Health (D.P.H.)

Importance of Choosing With Care

Finding the right degree program will involve some research on your part. The payoffs gained by starting and working through the program you select will give you monetary rewards that compound throughout your life. Completing a degree program will also increase what you know and can do, as well as increase your confidence and self-esteem. Good luck! And remember - we're here to help.

If you need more information on accredited online degrees, programs or information on online colleges & universities, please call our friendly advisors toll free at: 1.888.281.2822

Directory of accredited online colleges and universities nationwide.

By Laurie Jerome-Pertilla

www.MyCollegeSolution.com

How Effective Is Distance Education?

Thomas Edison predicted early this century that motion pictures would replace textbooks as the principal medium of instruction. In a new study to be released today, the College Board cites that anecdote to warn that the higher-education community should employ a healthy skepticism toward those currently touting the virtues of the virtual, online classroom.

As colleges and universities invest in the latest computer technology to ride the early wave of euphoria over online distance education, the College Board study cautions that the trend could actually create barriers to higher education for poor and minority students.

In addition, the study, along with another to be released next week by the American Federation of Teachers, raises concerns about assessing the quality of courses offered online. The AFT report takes issue with the conclusion of several studies that online courses can be just as rigorous and successful as those presented in a traditional classroom setting.

In the past year or two, many schools have started to offer online courses, and some even offer entire degree programs over the Internet. So far, the course offerings have been targeted to the booming adult-learner market: working adults who have little time between career and family obligations to travel several times a week to a college campus for further training, and are attracted instead to the convenience of taking a course via computer at home or in the office.

But some think that the online market will expand to include some of the bread-and-butter core courses that undergraduates have traditionally taken in campus classrooms. Last year, Pennsylvania State University ran a test with four online courses that enrolled about 40 students. This year, it launched its World Campus, an array of 30 online courses across 10 programs that currently enroll 400, most of whom are graduate students.

Temple University has nearly three dozen online courses, with an enrollment of 500 or so students, mostly at the graduate level. University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School has joined forces with Caliber Learning to offer graduate business courses, using a combination of online and video-conferencing technology.

"There is no doubt the World Wide Web shatters barriers of time and space in the delivery of instruction," Lawrence E. Gladieux, the College Board's executive director for policy analysis, writes in its report. "But its advent is also likely to create new barriers and inequities, simply because of differential availability of the required technology."

The report, using U.S. Department of Commerce data, notes that, while 41 percent of white households have a computer, only 19 percent of black families and 19 percent of Latino families do.

And according to the Higher Education Research Institute, 80 percent of freshmen at private universities used e-mail in the past year, compared with 64 percent at public four-year colleges and only 41 percent at public, historically black colleges. Such statistics, the report warns, raise concern that a greater focus on online education will actually prove a barrier to poor and minority students.

Gary Miller, associate vice president of distance education at Penn State, dismissed such criticism. "By using the new technology, you're extending the university learning experience to more people," he said.

"Because the new technology has not reached everyone yet isn't a reason not to pursue it," Miller said. "If you use that line of thinking, there would be no college campuses in the country.

"And it doesn't mean it won't expand," he said. "Because of their perceived benefit, the penetration of radio ... into homes occurred at a much faster rate than one might have expected during the 1930s, given the economic situation." By venturing into online education, universities will generate demand and spur the market, forcing online access onto the social-policy agenda, he said.

The College Board report warns that private philanthropy alone -- much less the marketplace itself -- cannot fix the problem of access, and argues that government must play a role.

Lee Alley, associate vice president for distance education at Temple, agreed that, if access to the new online courses is not managed well, it could become a problem. But he also said he thinks that, for most schools, online education will be a supplement, and not a replacement, for traditional methods of instruction, or for the many safety nets and supports that commonly come with a campus-based education.

While both reports question the potential quality of online courses, Miller and Alley both argue that online offerings can be even better than classroom courses, and that the new competition from online offerings can generate improved quality across higher education.

"Online distance education marks a real shift in buyer-side clout," Alley said. "The epicenter of choice will be shifted to students, and that competition will push quality up to a new max that you don't currently see in a lot of remote college campuses."

Mathew Simond is a journalist and copywriter. He is also a webmaster of many websites including http://www.psychologycolleges.net and http://www.religiousstudiesonline.org He aims to provide healthy information and advice on academic degrees.

Wages Increase With RN to BSN or RN to MSN Online Degree Programs

The average wage of a bachelor's prepared nurse is $66,000. This increases to $72,000 with a master's degree. An online RN to BSN, or RN to MSN program is an affordable and flexible way to increase your income as a nurse while still working. The coursework for your degree can be done online and is available to you 24 hours a day. So no matter what shift you work, your work is ready when you are.

In 2020 educated nurses will need to fill 1.7 million positions. Healthcare and nursing in particular is the fastest growing industry in the US. In difficult economic times there is job security in nursing. Having an advance degree increases your job opportunities and your job satisfaction as well as your income level.

If you are a licensed RN with at least a 2.5 GPA, you are eligible to study an online program. There are many colleges and universities that now offer nursing education programs online. Some are online extensions from traditional campus based schools and some from entirely online universities like Phoenix University. Regardless, all accredited schools have to meet certain standards to receive accreditation.

An online college and university website can provide you with free information (no strings attached) about the various schools and programs that are available to you. You can find information about the different nursing programs, such as forensic nursing, nurse practitioner, education, administration or management. Then simply request further information and you are on your way to an advanced degree and higher wages.

Just click on the following link to get online college degree information. It's fast, it's free, and you're under no obligation. You can get information about many types of online bachelors degree programs from many colleges. They also offer information about programs and schools that offer distance learning online masters degree programs.

Challenges That Comes Across Accreditation Standards

Numerous accreditation criteria influence a number of domains of accreditation, and the online education programs must illustrate how they are addressed. Courses must prepare systematic and continual efforts to make sure enclosure of students from diverse ethnic, racial, and personal backgrounds and execution of a coherent plan to offer students related knowledge and practices relevant to multiplicity in all aspects of the training program. Same steps must be taken to impart experiences that address ethical, legal, and other professional problems all over the training program.

Curriculums usually have a wide range of stratagems for assessing critical competencies including traditional tests of awareness content and application, qualifying examinations, standardized ratings by managers, and cautious assessment of the mastery of ethics, professionalism, and research protocols for human subjects. Programs must contain complete estimation of the student, require standardization of academic content and process, need evaluation of faculty competence, and offer vigilant documentation of information about the outcomes of the assessments. Online education programs must display the adequacy of their system of student gradation and the promise that they meet the APA CoA Guidelines and Principles.

Accreditation, Designation, and Licensure

Online education programs are invested in encouraging licensure for their students. This mission has guided them to figure out their programs to state accreditation standards, and it looks to be whether their inventions will meet accreditation principles and acceptance by licensing boards. Because rules differ across jurisdictions, learners are advised to seek advice from state and provincial licensing boards for exact details. A few will allow applicants to licensure examinations with degrees from schools and colleges recognized by regionally certifying authorities.

While online education programs states values for accreditation and designation, they will also address the relatives of the coaching, academic, and practice societies. These groups plays an important role in affecting standards for the professional training of psychologists, and little dialog has occurred in these societies about online education. In preparation of this article, I found that most beliefs tended to vary from doubtful to dismissive of the concept that online education can provide an adequate approach to professional training. Reports of taking up distance methods in accredited programs are ongoing.

At present, recognized training programs point out that they use e-mail, web pages, and online access to articles, but there is partial acceptance of electronically mediated pedagogical methods. The squad findings recommended that the training society is not prepared to allow online education methods or distance programs. The barriers in the field are supported by the lack of distance programs in other doctoral level health care occupations. These will be tricky problems for innovators to state.

Mathew Simond is a journalist and copywriter. He is also a webmaster of many websites including http://www.psychologycolleges.net and http://www.religiousstudiesonline.org He aims to provide healthy information and advice on academic degrees.

Online Degrees

An online degree can be achieved from the convenience of one's home during any point of time, which is convenient for one's schedule. One can choose from a variety of online degrees given by extremely reputed colleges or universities. There are various online degrees which are available in various streams like communication & culture, natural health, holistic nutrition, organizational management, sociology, criminology, information technology, human and professional administration, family & community services, gerontology, liberal arts, advertising, culinary management, game art & design, graphic design, interior design, multimedia & web design, engineering studies etc.

Some of the reputed online degree colleges are Abilene Christian University, American Intercontinental University, American sentinel University, Argosy University, Art Institute Online, Ashford University, Aspen University, Benedictine University, California State University, Capella University, Centenary College, Chicago School Of Professional Psychology, City University, Cleveland Institute Of Electronics, Colorado Technical University, Columbia Southern University, Devry University, Drexel University, Everest University, Florida Institute Of Technology, Franklin University, George Washington University, Golden Gate University, Winston Salem University, Woodbury College etc.

These online degrees are very beneficial since these can be achieved by simply sitting at home, from any corner of the world, it has no time constraint, a person applying for an online degree can work for the whole day and take the online courses even after midnight. There are also numerous loans and scholarships sponsored by the colleges and universities for doing its online degree courses. The provision of giving loans to the deprived and the needy students is a very novel act, this helps the less privileged or the financially weak students to earn an online degree even if they are involved in a full time job and burdened with family expenses. The facility of giving scholarships to the deprived, qualified and intelligent students by the universities is yet another novel activity, this helps the students with great potentials but economically weak a golden opportunity to move ahead in life.

The online degrees are manifold; there are bachelors, masters, doctorate degrees in every possible stream ranging from medicine to jewelry designing, accounting to editing, culinary arts to performing arts etc. These degrees have good reputation which is no less than the college degrees. The most beneficial fact of the online degrees is that people from any age group can apply for them, they do not have any age limit; moreover one can terminate the course whenever he or she wishes to, there are no complications in doing so. These degrees are available throughout the year, they do not have any specific duration within which they would operate, i.e. they operate 24x7 throughout the year.

The CITY UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK is the State's biggest urban university which awards online education , it's bachelor's degree in Communication & Culture is well known all over the nation. Online education which is becoming a widespread and convenient form of distant learning is gaining more and more acceptance into the urban society and is also becoming a widespread form of distant education among the younger and the upcoming generations. It is very profitable and economical since it saves transport expenses.

Last but never the least , since we all know that, "everything that shines is not gold" so one must be very careful with misleading websites which make fake promises and do nothing except wasting a person's time and money.

Nowadays, people can easily accomplish the online degrees, sitting at their home. They act as a virtual online university for the student giving ample amount of knowledge.

Why Distance Learning is Getting Popular Day By Day?

So you're busy working toward that next promotion, but you know the boss is seeking someone with a graduate degree in hand. But quitting your job so you can go back to college full time is out of the question; you've got bills to pay and a family to feed - you need the money.

If you have access to a computer, a phone line and a modem, you may be closer than you think to that master's degree. Welcome to the world of virtual education, or as those not so technically savvy call it, distance learning. With more dotcom sites than ever popping up on the Internet, colleges and universities are jumping at the chance to get their share of the action. According to a 1999 U.S. News and World Report, the number of accredited two- and four-year institutions with distance learning programs large enough to merit administrators has jumped 127 percent to 682 schools since 1994. A third of all colleges, including Harvard and Stanford, offer some form of distance learning.

Online instruction varies from one degree program to the next. Some classrooms are constructed through message boards, while other instructors prefer the use of videotaped lectures or teleconferencing. So without leaving the comfort of your living room, you could be on the path to earning a degree. But unfortunately, for many unsuspecting students there are plenty of shams in the world of virtual education.

According to Vicky Phillips, a distance education counselor who publishes the Virtual University Gazette, the key to finding a reputable online college is accreditation. Accreditation, explained Phillips, is important if you hope to have a public record of your learning that will be widely accepted.

If you find the college of your choice doesn't offer online degrees, don't give up pursuing an education from that school. Many colleges and universities offer virtual certification programs which let students earn certificates through distance learning. For example, students can receive a certificate in systems engineering and apply the credits toward a master of engineering degree.

Mathew Simond is a journalist and copywriter. He is also a webmaster of many websites including http://www.paralegal-degree.org and http://www.humanservicesdegree.net He aims to provide healthy information and advice on academic degrees.

Communication Keys in Online Degrees

Communication is key when beginning and continuing in an online degree program. Since you are not physically attending a class, it is much more difficult to get to know those you attend class with and are taught by. Sometimes it is hard to remember that they are actual people who also have jobs, families, and other obligations. It takes some effort, but you can utilize the networking opportunities and make friends while working on your virtual schooling.

One way to become involved is beginning by introducing yourself and getting to know others in your classes. Most online classes I have ever been a part of tend to automatically ask you to post an introduction. Try to go a step further by sending each person who has posted an introduction a separate greeting, in which you hopefully mention something that you may share in common. If you notice that "Amy" is from the same state you lived in for 10 years, try to mention that in a response email to her. Or if "Joe" enjoys camping, you might mention a new campground you have recently found.

Making friends is vital to establishing that all-important support group. Since you are all continuing through this journey together, it is always wonderful to know who you can ask for help. Leaders will emerge regardless, and hopefully you will be one. not only will others look to you for assistance and be there when you need it, but instructors will also take note. Many opportunities may arise later as you continue working on your degree.

Put forth the effort to get to know others, and the benefits will come full circle even greater. Get chatting!

Charity L. Weber is an author, teacher, parent, trainer, student, and manager. Most importantly, in all of the previously mentioned: she is an educator. The ability to teach someone something new is a gift that few truly appreciate. ARE YOU INTERESTED IN SUBSCRIBING TO A FREE E-LEARNING E-ZINE AND RECEIVE A FREE BONUS GIFT? You can visit her at http://web.mac.com/charitypreston/iWeb/Master%20Classroom%20Organization/Welcome.html

Is Online Learning a Viable Option For You?

A lot of people have found online colleges to be the number one solution for continuing education. The class schedules are certainly more flexible and many times the tuition is more affordable because there are not as many (if any) physical campuses that need to be maintained.

That said, getting an online degree is not for everybody and not all online colleges are equal. It depends a lot on the type of career you are interested in pursuing. For many technical trades and lower level white collar professions, an online degree may be perfect for these individuals. For these people it is a matter of deciding which online school is going to best meet their expectations.

Choosing a college, whether one with a physical campus or an online campus, is obviously a serious process where you must take many different factors under consideration. However, choosing from a selection of online colleges can be somewhat trickier for a number of reasons.

First of all, it may harder to get a feel for how a college is run and what you can expect while attending classes if you cannot tour the campus and talk with representatives in person. You may find that online classes are not for you. Speaking with prospective online colleges will give you a good idea of how well you will mesh with an online learning environment.

If you are good at time management and setting your own schedules then an online degree can be the perfect solution. If, however, you find it difficult to keep track of regular class schedules chances are you will quickly become overwhelmed trying to manage time and work deadlines in a cyber learning environment.

While there are many top notch online colleges, there are at least as many not so good operations out there. If at all possible, enroll in online classes offered by your local community . This is a way to sidestep the dubious online schools altogether.

If you do decide to pursue a completely online college, there are some things to be aware of. First of all, I would stay away from online schools that do not permit you to browse curriculum and schedules online before talking with a representative. If you visit a school website and the furthest you can get is to fill out a contact form, you could as well keep on looking at other schools. This is one of the first signs that the school is a degree mill.

Be wary of pushy salesmanship type behavior, When you are contacted by an online school representative. I have run into too many people that were forced into submitting outrageous pre-enrollment or other types of so-called deposits to garanty a place in classes. No respectable college is going to make you feel like there is a rush to send them money. If you feel pressured to send in vaguely labeled funds, hang up and look at other schools.

There are many reputable online colleges, but the best ones are still online classes offered by traditional educational institutions. If you are going to enroll in a completely online school to get an online degree, do your homework. Search for discussion forums and find out what other people have experienced with particular online degree institutions, as well as online learning in general.

Remember, it is your future you are dealing with. Getting your degree, online or not is serious. Take all the time you need and especially use your common sense. Be the best you can. The most important person is you, invest your time wisely. Now, start searching...

The author is an Internet lover and really enjoys to share information with readers. You can read more about online learning and all about online degree education news at his website www.educationdegreeonlinelearning.com

Advantages of Online Degrees

We can attend online classes from anywhere around the world whether it is home city or any other city or country. We don't need to stay in one city or place we can continue our studies as a traveler with the help of laptop computer with wireless internet connection. Live in north region and attend colleges of south.

We can communicate and discuss about the subject from the students and colleagues who are studying same subject from the same university or college. During exams we can study online with colleagues.

It becomes easy for the students who want to go outside the country for their Higher education. Today, many reputed universities are offering the courses online in very low tuition fees. Some institutes are making pathway programs online which enable student to go foreign after three or six months for the further education.

We can choose any course according to our interest and also any university of the world which is providing online education facility. So, it has removed the Barrier between an intelligent student and a moderate student. There is no entrance exam required; if we are eligible for the course we can get admission easily

Online education system is low costlier as we don't need to buy any admission form, uniform, shoes, bags, notebooks, pen, pencils and books etc from the market. We don't need to spend money on bus fees or in petrol .What we need is just a personal or laptop computer having internet connection.

This system is time consuming as we don't need to get up early and ready for going to institute, we don't need to wait for the Bus that will take you to the college. We can attend lectures and give exams according to our schedule so the time management becomes easy. If a person is doing any job or working anywhere this system can best suits for them.

Documents and Study materials are available on the college websites. Videos of lectures and e books can be retrieved from the e-mail. Online Live discussions programs are organized by the institutes at regular intervals. Discussions plays very important role to share and increase the practical knowledge between the students.

As the books and notes are available we don't need to buy books it reduces our expenses for books and time to go in market. Working on a project become easy for the students if everyone is online and share their working.

If we are making any assignment and preparing for presentation we don't need to take out print outs or hard copy, Big file just prepare your electronic document online and submit them by e mail or enrolling on the college website. Due to over enrollment student cannot deny entering the class. Instead of complicated attendance system student can register with the click of mouse.

It totally depends upon the students how they maintain their time and plan schedule teachers will not force you to complete your homework, assignment or presentation. So the student should be responsible and hard worker.

Keith Londrie II is the Webmaster of http://best-online-degrees.info, a website that specializes in providing information on Online Degrees that you can research on the internet.

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Online Degrees - Powerful Advice To Know Beforehand

In this day and age, more people are turning to online colleges to obtain accelerated degrees that will help enhance their careers. Law degrees from reputable universities and colleges are now available on the net. This article looks at the current level of acceptance of internet degrees by employers, and advises prospective students on comparing those available from the traditional institutions with those from the newer providers who offer only web-based degrees.

Considering the traditional learning institutions, over two-thirds of them now offer online degrees, at either bachelor or master's level. Advanced degrees are also available internet, such as a Master's of Arts (MA) in Education or Master's of Science (MS) in Education. To address this problem many online masters degrees programs now offer student tutors or mentor that are available through email to address a student's personal needs.

The main drawback to internet masters degrees programs is that they are done entirely online. The programs offered in the form of web degrees very greatly. Thankfully, with the advent of online bachelors degrees afforded by educational institutions who have acknowledged complicated life situations such as job and family commitments, people can now go back and finish that degree and move ahead in the world.

People who are seeking better educational and employment advantages but are usually limited by their lack of time and resources can now turn to the many benefits of online college degrees. Is the world of online degrees and internet learning for you?

But perhaps the biggest shortcoming of the online education is that it is quite expensive. Now is the time to take action, the online education market is growing approximately 40% each year.

Research the Internet's leading online universities! Earn the college degree of your dreams, where & when it is the most convenient for you http://www.getuniversitydegreesonline.com - the truly powerful resource site on locating and gathering information from the top online schools.