Earning your degree online has become an increasingly popular option for many students. Going to college looks different than it has in the past and colleges are adapting to the shifting needs of students of all ages and backgrounds. If the past several years have shown us anything, it’s that people need more from colleges and universities to make earning a degree a reality.
Online degrees make it possible for more people to achieve better careers and stability by offering an alternative to the traditional on-campus degree program. Online degree programs make college more accessible for any one with the dream of advancing their education. No matter your personal circumstances, here are seven reasons why you should consider earning a degree online.
Flexibility
One of the most significant advantages of earning a degree online is the flexibility online learning offers. Online programs are designed to accommodate busy schedules so that you can complete coursework at your own pace and on your own time. Many of our students hold down one or more jobs or take care of family members while also going to school. Our faculty members understand that life happens and things come up — showing our students empathy and understanding of outside factors that can influence one’s education.
Convenience
Until recently, going to college meant moving to a new city, uprooting your life, and starting over to achieve your dream of a college education. That might sound wonderful for some of us, but for others, it’s impossible to start over in a new place to earn a degree. In the past, financial and personal restraints have prevented many people from going to college in the first place. Online programs have changed that. With an online degree, you don’t have to worry about commuting to campus or finding a place to live near your school. You can complete your coursework from anywhere with an internet connection, making it a perfect option for people who live in rural and underserved areas.
Cost-Effectiveness
Being financially savvy means evaluating the cost vs. benefit of any investment, including the price of your college degree. Committing to a college education comes with a hefty price tag. Online degrees are often more affordable than traditional on-campus programs because they don’t require the same overhead costs as their brick-and-mortar counterparts. Colleges can then pass those savings on to you through lower tuition and fees.
Program Options
With online programs, you can access a broader range of degree options than you might find at a local college or university. This is because you’re not limited by your geographic location when searching for online degree programs. You can apply to a school, no matter where it’s located in the country or the world.
Advanced Technology
Like any advancing technology, online and distance learning haven’t been without growing pains. Unlike in the past, online programs now offer high-quality course materials and interactive experiences that make earning your degree just as rigorous as a traditional on-campus degree. Faculty members hold virtual office hours and provide opportunities to collaborate and connect with your peers digitally. Online programs use interactive tools and resources, such as discussion forums and video conferencing, to create collaborative learning environments from a distance. Here, our faculty members are experts in their fields and professional practitioners, delivering student-centered educational experiences that you can take part in from anywhere in the world. At Goodwin, you’ll get the support you need, no matter your time zone.
Career Advancement
Online programs are perfect for working professionals.
If you’re already working, an online degree program can help you advance your career without putting your life and your job on hold. Many employers value the skills and knowledge that come with a degree — earning an online degree can demonstrate your commitment to your field and your ability to balance multiple responsibilities. An advanced degree or certificate in your field can open doors to new opportunities like promotions and leadership opportunities, leading to higher earning potential without having to take time away from work.
Networking Opportunities
An online program can provide opportunities to network with people outside your immediate geographic location. Many online programs offer networking events and digital career fairs, allowing you to connect with other students, alumni, and potential employers from all over the globe.
Inclusive educational opportunities, like online learning, break down barriers to education that may have prevented you from going to school in the past. An online degree program makes learning and achieving your degree possible for more people. At Goodwin, we put our students first by making going back to school truly possible.
We offer fully online programs in:
- Business Administration
- Education
- Medical Billing and Coding
- Nursing
- Organizational Leadership
- Professional Studies
- Public Health
Interested in learning more about Goodwin University’s flexible online degree programs? Reach out to us to learn more today!
Goodwin University is a nonprofit institution of higher education and is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), formerly known as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). Goodwin University was founded in 1999, with the goal of serving a diverse student population with career-focused degree programs that lead to strong employment outcomes.