7 Reasons to Skip Traditional Classroom Schooling
Traditional classroom learning has its benefits. Interacting with like-minded individuals and talking to a professor one-on-one are major assets. However, with the emergence of online universities, studying via the Internet is now just as efficient. Here are a few reasons to skip the doldrums of going to class and go to school in the comfort of your own home.
Maintaining Employment
Perhaps the most beneficial reason to pursue an online degree is maintaining your current job without having to duck out to attend class. For example, if you are pursuing a Master of Taxation online, you can still earn valuable work experience with an accounting or financial firm. Earning money through tuition reimbursement is another added bonus to counteract the financial effects of a costly university education.
Accreditation
Until recently, many for-profit online schools lacked the necessary accreditation to attract employers. Today, these same online schools have grown wise and now offer the same type of education you'd get at a regular brick-and-mortar school. Make sure to check and see if the school you're interested in has the proper credentials.
Improving Computer Skills
As opposed to sitting in class with a notebook and pen, online classes provide a forum for students to work on their computer literacy. As the Internet becomes a driving force in the workplace, being familiar with basic computer operations and programs provides an invaluable resource to students and know-how that employers find attractive.
No Worries About Proximity
If you have an idea of what profession you wish to pursue, then sometimes finding a school that offers that program can be difficult. In some cases, local schools may not offer exactly what you want. Online schools give you the ability to choose a major you want, especially if the proximity of the school is well outside your range.
Lower Prices
According to the College Board, tuition at an average university rose to about $9,000 for in-state public universities and $22,000 for out-of-state students. Add that to the $1 trillion worth of student debt in the country, and pinching every penny becomes a priority. You save about 50 percent by enrolling online. However, watch out for hidden fees that some online schools charge.
Work at Your Own Pace
The pace of traditional schooling is up to the professor and the aptitude of the students in the class. This is detrimental to students who want to work ahead or gather as much information as possible. That's why online education gives you the upper hand. If you want to work ahead, you're more than welcome. There's no extra charge for that.
Lectures and Material
With online schooling, you're no longer at the mercy of your professor to provide lecture materials. Instead, everything is on the Web, making it easily accessible 24 hours a day. This means you can't miss a class and be out of the material. It's all one click away.
When deciding how to pursue your education, look no further than an online degree. Its advantages are numerous, and you can advance your career how you deem fit. All you have to do is put in the work.