For most people, acquiring a college degree is not only a milestone, but a dream that would birth forth an endless list of possibilities. Traditional learning has existed for ages, and perhaps for a good reason.

Unlike traditional learning that entails on-campus education, one earns an online degree through online courses and programs. Thanks to the global pandemic, online learning has advanced to higher levels.

Hop onto this exciting journey to find out whether an online degree is your key to achieving dreams!

Should You Consider an Online Degree?

Listed below are 5 important factors you should ask yourself before embarking on an online degree course. The steps include cost implication, working independently, career advancement, time factor and educational possibilities.

1. Cost implication

A larger percentage of people pursuing an online degree gravitate towards it because of lower costs compared to on-site learning. This might be true. Still, it is prudent that you do the calculation and weigh the affordability of the specific program you intend to enroll before signing up.

Usually, there may be variation in terms of costs depending on whether you are choosing on-campus learning, online or hybrid. Some courses are offered both on-site and online while others are offered purely online or in-campus.

While online degree gives you a way of avoiding hidden costs like transportation, and meal plans you may have to incur others like technology fees that you would not have paid. Consequently, college charges may vary across different institutions based on such factors.

• Can You Work Independently?

A common feature of online learning is the asynchrony- meaning that each student has the liberty to access learning materials at their own pace. The biggest win here is the idea of flexibility. Is it a good thing? Depends. For a person juggling work and learning, this is a good way of striking a balance.

However, this kind of freedom requires a person who can work under little to no supervision. It requires self-motivation; a self-driven individual that knows exactly what he or she is after. There are timelines that should be met, assignments to be completed and more or less every other thing you would expect in on-campus setting.

• Career advancement, passion or interest?

If you are already pursuing your career, you may want to advance even further. If this is your projection, an online degree can suffice. Give up sitting at your desk waiting for your supervisor to recognize your excellent work and give you a promotion you deserve. Alternatively, you might choose to learn new abilities that will improve your chances and make you stand out from the others.

That may be the case, but there are a lot of people seeking avenues to enhance their passion and dreams besides developing their career. An online degree gives you an opportunity to compliment your skills, talent or interest with a certificate.

• Time factor

Let’s admit it-none of us has the luxury of time. So, when you can find of a way to save on time that you would otherwise be looking for, you grab it without second thoughts. An online degree saves you time that you would use on transportation-moving from place to place, department to another and such. You can then channel this time to your other pursuits including work, personal or academic pursuits.

Additionally, if you have access to the internet and the required devices, like a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, you can access your online course from any location.

• The availability of educational possibilities

Do you reside in an area where educational institutions are scarce? No need to worry. No matter where you live, you can obtain certification from the university of your choosing with online degrees. Finding a reputable, well-reviewed, and accredited college is all that is required.

Besides, online programs often offer specialized trainings or courses that may not be locally available giving you an opportunity to explore endless unique options.

Does Investing in an Online Degree Make Sense?

Weighing the benefits vs risk of attempting an online degree will save you from making obvious mistakes. An online degree offers you flexibility and wider access to courses. Moreover, there may be incentives and an opportunity to strike a balance between other facets of your life. However, it is important that you consider a couple of things before determining the worth of your investment.

• Is the online degree regionally recognized?
• Can you access support services for the course you are intending to pursue?
• Is the online degree respectable by your employers? Will it help you advance your career?
• Does it provide you with skills and qualifications that will put you ahead of your competitors?
• Is the college degree you are applying for legitimate?

Once you can answer these questions adequately, you will be able to determine the worth of investing in an online degree.

Cons of an Online Degree

• Online scams- While it is true that a lot of prestigious universities offer both on-campus and online learning, some other illegitimate institutions may take advantage of you and rob you of your money.
• Time mismanagement- discipline and self-management is important for anyone deciding to pursue an online degree because you can easily mismanage your time and fail to achieve your goal.

In a nutshell:

An online degree is totally worth it, but only if you choose right. Do yourself a favor and do extensive research keeping in mind quality, individual needs and relevance. Beware of online scams and ensure that you are a self-driven and disciplined individual. Amass the flexibility, support services and industry-related qualifications that an online degree avails. Ensure that you are well-conversant with the different models of online learning and choose the one that works for you perfectly. Considering an online degree has been easier than ever. When attending an online school, you can attend remotely from home or even work. You can log in on your own time. With all these considered, you can get ready to fuel yourself to an endless journey of opportunities awaiting you!