General Education FAQ      

 

Table of Contents

  1. Do I really need to go back to College?
  2. What is distance learning?
  3. Can I really earn a degree online?
  4. What are the advantages of an online degree?
  5. What are the disadvantages of an online degree?
  6. Is distance learning for me?
  7. Is there financial aid for an online degree?
  8. Do I need a high-school diploma to get an online degree?

Do I really need to go back to College?

It is usually a very good investment in time and money. Adult education is the fastest growing segment of advanced education. Recent statistics from the U.S. Department of Education show that almost 40% of the students are over 25 years old. The average age of adult students is now over 30 and increasing steadily. 

In general, the higher the level of education, the more money a person makes. >From the U.S. Department of Labor, the median income by education:

  • high-school diploma - $23,000
  • associate degree - $29,000
  • bachelor's degree - $39,000
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What is distance learning?

Distance Learning is education set in an environment where the student and the instructor are geographically separated. Distance learning can be delivered via most any media including: 

  • snail mail
  • video
  • interactive video or teleconferencing
  • internet technologies (message boards, desktop conferencing, CBT, etc.)
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Can I really earn a degree online?

Certainly! Just look here for a wide selection of online degree programs. Many adults just like you earn their first degree or an advanced degree every year. 

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What are the advantages of an online degree?

Flexibility - Set your own schedule and change it as demands require. Most adults returning for a degree don't have the ability to drop everything and attend classes for several years to earn a degree. Most of us have to work and therefore need a degree program that can work around our schedule.

Convenience - Work in the comfort of your own home. No commute, no strict schedule, no interruption of you job.

Wide range of programs - Select exactly the program that works for you.

Cohorts - Work with a group of similar people. Most students are older, more experience in life, and are motivated to similar goals.

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What are the disadvantages of an online degree?

Isolation - You must be able to work alone for the most part. There is limited access to students, tutors and instructors. You will often have to find your own resources to complete assignments.

Commitment - Managing time demands of family, friend, work and the new degree program can be daunting. You may find it difficult to set aside time to study.

Technology - You must be comfortable with technology since most online programs use technology for teaching and communication.

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Is distance learning for me?

Are you:

  • self-motivated - It takes time and effort to earn a degree.
  • self-disciplined - It takes dedication to earn a degree.
  • able to manage you time and efforts
  • able to study 10-15 hours a week
  • goal-oriented - It requires focus to reach the goal of earning a degree.
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Is there financial aid for an online degree?

Yes there is a limited amount of financial aid for online degree programs for students who qualify. See our (insert hyperlink to financial aid).

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Do I need a high-school diploma to get an online degree?

Yes, you need a high-school diploma or equivalent to enroll in most online degree programs. If you don't have a high-school diploma, you should consider testing for a GED. See our (insert hyperlink to GEDs).

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