Today, a single click opens the door to a huge world of online degree and distance learning opportunities. However, you should not take them for granted. Some may not be of high quality, while others are just scams. So how can you tell the difference between a good online degree and a less effective or even bogus curriculum? Here are 4 steps before you decide to graduate online.
1. Be sure to apply to accredited universities
The main thing on your “To Do” list is to verify that the university is accredited. In general, you should be able to perform a simple accreditation check on the university website, as it always includes the logos of the accreditation bodies at the bottom of the home page or has a special tab/symbol for accreditation. Click on the logo to check and verify if you can join the same accreditation body indicated on the logo.
You can also do a quick Google search and find fraud requests from students who have submitted an application to the same university you are applying to. Several non-governmental organizations deal with problems of accreditation in education. You can easily access the websites of these agencies, enter the name of the university you wish to apply for and see if they are accredited or not.
2. Make sure you have a look at what you pay for
Even if you have the problem of accreditation, you should still consult the online bachelor’s or master’s degree program that you choose. Although degrees will have an identical degree, programs frequently vary by way of university. Take a look at its consistency and its topics to get an idea of what the program is focusing on. If you think it meets your expectations, you have a perfect combination!
During this step, you should also do some research on the credit system. You should opt for online programs with transferable credits. With these programs, you can use the credits earned on a professional certificate to obtain another full-time diploma on-campus or online.
3. Explore funding opportunities
Many universities offer financial support to students, including students enrolling in distance education programs. It is important to check whether the university offers public funds. If you do, it is a sign of government recognition that your chosen program is legitimate. This clearly contributes to the overall quality factor of the degrees offered and of the university itself. You should also check the scholarships offered by the university or check if they advise you on how to pay for your studies.
4. Take a look at student support services – you will need them!
With online courses or degrees, the need for academic support is much greater and a very important aspect of your study experience. As a potential online student, you should be able to contact the Student Support Service staff at any time if you have any concerns or problems with your curriculum.
Do your homework before you start learning online
Do your homework before embarking on a long-distance trip, whether for a full degree or a short course. Analyze and assess the points above and they should provide a clear picture of the status and quality level of the online program you are applying for. Be open-minded and don’t forget to check the different options before arriving at a result!