Whos Got The Time? Online College Degrees

What prevents most people from going back to college to complete their studies? Well, for starters, a busy person might have family commitments. They may have children at home (especially small children) who need constant care. Or they may have older parents who need looking after.

For other adults, their major obstacle to meeting their educational goals is current job responsibilities. Adults without education who are working are people who NEED to work - they have bills, financial responsibilities that must be met. They simply cannot afford to take time off from their job, or quit, in order to go to school.

And so they find themselves in a Catch-22 situation: they need to work, but they also need to get that better job and the better life that it affords. And that better life will remain an elusive goal without the degree to go with it. So, what is a busy adult to do? The traditional approach to schooling - attending classes every day on campus - will not work for them. That's where online college degrees come in.

When you enroll in an online college degree program you will need a computer for sure, because your entire educational experience is funneled through your PC at home. Via the miracle of the Internet you can not only attend class lectures, but communicate with your instructor and classmates as well. How? Well, in addition to live interaction in your virtual classroom, you can also exchange e-mails and hang out in forums. You will be able to exchange vital information, collaborate on assignments and complete group projects. In short, you will be able to do most of your coursework online!

I know your next question: "Are these schools for real?" And the short answer is yes. And the reputable schools are always accredited. This will protect you from the scammers out there. You will be able to transfer your credits to another school, and future employers will recognize the validity of your degree as long as you go to an accredited school.

What kinds of programs are available - what kinds of courses of study can you choose from? Well, take your pick: You can enroll in a business or trade school, or a more traditional college or university (such as the well-known online programs from the University of Phoenix). You can find courses in everything from Culinary Arts to Management, from IT to Engineering, Medical Assisting to Journalism.

And here's some really good news: Enrolling in an online college degree program doesn't mean that you will be short-changed on financial aid. In fact many of the usual financial aid options (such as student loans) are still available, as long as your school and program of study are approved.

So, supposing you've heard enough - how do you begin? Well, the best place to begin is to search for information on online college degrees ONLINE. Locate some schools offering degrees and courses in your area of interest. Note what degrees they award. Make sure that they are properly accredited. Compare the costs - both tuition as well as administrative fees. Here's a good tip: ask someone already active in your planned field of study for their opinion: would THEY attend this school? Then when you have narrowed down your choices to 3 or 4 schools, contact them individually to indicate your interest. Ask any questions you may have. When you are ready, make your choice. Congratulations -- and welcome to the world of higher education!