Most people aren't concerned with the amount of money they borrow in order to go to college- at least, not while they're still in college and avoiding payments by deferring them until after graduation. Students are taught to believe that going to college will result in higher paying jobs, and therefore- paying off the loans required to get that higher education will not only be “easy to pay off”, but well worth the investment, no matter how much that investment ends up being. When graduation comes and the job offers do not- many students are stuck with high loan payments that are anything but easy to pay off, and the day-to-day struggle; and living paycheck to paycheck- begins.
Education is never a bad thing; and it absolutely should be considered a valuable investment- but having tens of thousands of dollars in debt as you enter the 'adult world' after college can be an eye opening experience for most students. College does little to prepare people for the high payments that come due six months after you finish your college days. As much as having a degree should result in higher paying positions- there are no real guarantees that you will in fact find a position that pays you a high salary just because you finished college. If you do eventually land that amazing position that pays a high salary- chances are it won't be the day you graduate- and it may not even be within the six month grace period you have before the student loan statements start arriving in the mailbox- which means you've got to find another way to make your student loan payments and keep up with your day to day living expenses on a lower paying salary.
A program through Upromise.com actually lets you earn money on the things you are already purchasing- like grocery store products, online shopping, and restaurants. The money earned through this program was originally designed to help families save for college for their children; but recently, Upromise was acquired by Sallie Mae (a popular educational loan provider) and the program was expanded to allow people to apply their Upromise earnings to their own college loan payments. It works similar to rewards credit cards, in that each time you use your registered debit or credit cards to make a purchase with a participating retailer, a percentage is placed as a 'reward' in your Upromise account.
Once you create an account with Upromise, you just connect all of your existing debit cards and credit cards that you already have in your wallet. You don't need to apply for any new credit cards, but if you decide you want to increase the amount of Upromise earnings, the Citi Upromise credit card will help you earn more whenever you use that card to make your every day purchases.
You can also ask friends and family to start a Upromise account and connect their own debit and credit cards. Any earnings they get can be transferred into your account and can also be applied to your student loan debt.
You've got to buy groceries and pay for other things- you may as well connect your debit and credit cards to a Upromise account and get some of those necessary expenses back towards the cost of your educational loans. Every little bit helps!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
A Student Loan Consolidation Rate Means Lower Monthly Payments
After you have graduated from college or university, it will be time to start paying off your student loans. Since federal student loans are applied for each year, by the time you graduate, you will have several loans at various interest rates. A student loan consolidation makes perfect sense in this case.
By making a choice to apply for a student loan consolidation, a better rate of interest on the outstanding loan can be locked. The former student will also benefit from lower payments each month. This is important for individuals who are just starting their careers.
In addition to the benefits of a lower interest rate, a student loan consolidation makes sense from the point of view of the individual’s credit rating. When you choose to sign the documentation for a student loan consolidation (at any rate), your credit report will show that you have paid off all those outstanding student loans.
When your credit report shows that you have fewer outstanding loans (multiple student loans are replaced by one loan), the number of your credit score will go up. For future loans, a good credit score is vital to getting a better interest rate. Consider a student loan consolidation for this reason.
How to Apply for a Consolidation Loan
The first step in applying for a student loan consolidation is to fill out and submit the required application form. The application can be filled out either online or in a paper format. Once the application has been reviewed and approved, the lender will request payoff statements for each loan to be consolidated.
It can take some time for the consolidation lender to receive these payoff statements, so it is important that the former student continue to make the regular monthly payments on all student loans until the consolidation loan can be processed.
Once the interest rate and the student loan consolidation have been approved, a new federal loan will be taken out in the borrower’s name.
All of the previous student loans will be paid off completely. The former student will have the advantage of making one payment each month. The new payment will be lower, which will free up some cash in the monthly budget for other things.
If the borrower chooses to make these new monthly payments by way of an automatic withdrawal from his or her checking account, it is possible that he or she may be eligible for a lower interest rate on the student loan consolidation.
By making a choice to apply for a student loan consolidation, a better rate of interest on the outstanding loan can be locked. The former student will also benefit from lower payments each month. This is important for individuals who are just starting their careers.
In addition to the benefits of a lower interest rate, a student loan consolidation makes sense from the point of view of the individual’s credit rating. When you choose to sign the documentation for a student loan consolidation (at any rate), your credit report will show that you have paid off all those outstanding student loans.
When your credit report shows that you have fewer outstanding loans (multiple student loans are replaced by one loan), the number of your credit score will go up. For future loans, a good credit score is vital to getting a better interest rate. Consider a student loan consolidation for this reason.
How to Apply for a Consolidation Loan
The first step in applying for a student loan consolidation is to fill out and submit the required application form. The application can be filled out either online or in a paper format. Once the application has been reviewed and approved, the lender will request payoff statements for each loan to be consolidated.
It can take some time for the consolidation lender to receive these payoff statements, so it is important that the former student continue to make the regular monthly payments on all student loans until the consolidation loan can be processed.
Once the interest rate and the student loan consolidation have been approved, a new federal loan will be taken out in the borrower’s name.
All of the previous student loans will be paid off completely. The former student will have the advantage of making one payment each month. The new payment will be lower, which will free up some cash in the monthly budget for other things.
If the borrower chooses to make these new monthly payments by way of an automatic withdrawal from his or her checking account, it is possible that he or she may be eligible for a lower interest rate on the student loan consolidation.
A Students Guide To Federal Grants
Paying for university or college is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your life. As you know, however, it is also one of the biggest investments too. For this reason, good financial planning well in advance of attending the university of your choice is essential. You will want to create a budget and consider everything - not just tuition but also reasonable living costs. Unfortunately, sometimes budgeting simply isn't enough - and that's where federal grants come into play.
1. Grant Or Scholarship - What's The Difference?
The main difference between a grant and a scholarship is that a scholarship has far more restrictions placed upon it than a grant. Both grants and scholarships are non-repayable, that is, unlike a loan you don't have to pay them back when you are done your schooling. Furthermore, scholarships are for specific academic or athletic categories, whereas grants are awarded primarily on financial need only.
2. Raising Your Chances
There are a few things you can do to raise your chances of being elidgeable for financial assistance. The first and most important thing you can do is get good grades in school - good grades not only might qualify you for a scholarship, but they also make your chances a lot better of being accepted to the university of your choice.
3. Grants To The Rescue
Of course, what if youre not as smart as those students? What will you do to get into college by not spending a lot of money? The government can provide you money for college students who are in need of financial aid. This is called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA. This is a form of grant that will determine how much your familys financial strength is. You can fill out a FAFSA form in your school or via the internet in the FAFSA website at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Not only students who have financial difficulty should do this but everyone should do it. This will substantially decrease the amount you will spend to pay for college and can lessen the burden for your parents.
4. Have The Following Information Ready
- Social Security Number
- Latest W-2 forms and other records of money earned.
- Federal Income Tax Return of your parents.
- Permanent Residence Card if a non US citizen.
- Drivers license
1. Grant Or Scholarship - What's The Difference?
The main difference between a grant and a scholarship is that a scholarship has far more restrictions placed upon it than a grant. Both grants and scholarships are non-repayable, that is, unlike a loan you don't have to pay them back when you are done your schooling. Furthermore, scholarships are for specific academic or athletic categories, whereas grants are awarded primarily on financial need only.
2. Raising Your Chances
There are a few things you can do to raise your chances of being elidgeable for financial assistance. The first and most important thing you can do is get good grades in school - good grades not only might qualify you for a scholarship, but they also make your chances a lot better of being accepted to the university of your choice.
3. Grants To The Rescue
Of course, what if youre not as smart as those students? What will you do to get into college by not spending a lot of money? The government can provide you money for college students who are in need of financial aid. This is called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid or FAFSA. This is a form of grant that will determine how much your familys financial strength is. You can fill out a FAFSA form in your school or via the internet in the FAFSA website at http://www.fafsa.ed.gov. Not only students who have financial difficulty should do this but everyone should do it. This will substantially decrease the amount you will spend to pay for college and can lessen the burden for your parents.
4. Have The Following Information Ready
- Social Security Number
- Latest W-2 forms and other records of money earned.
- Federal Income Tax Return of your parents.
- Permanent Residence Card if a non US citizen.
- Drivers license
Thursday, January 15, 2009
Taking Advantage of an Accredited Online Bachelor Degree
More and more people are grabbing the opportunity of earning an accredited online bachelor degree. And why not take advantage of this new trend in education? There are quite a number of reasons why getting a bachelor degree online is so popular. Some of them include:
• An opportunity to go up the career ladder. Having a bachelor degree will make it easier for anyone to get a promotion in the workplace, perking up one’s employment status and monthly salary. It will also pave the way to a dream career which the lack of a college degree prevents you from achieving.
• No need to quit your current work. Getting your bachelor degree online requires only an internet connection and access the program wherever you may be. This means you get to keep your job and continue earning as you finish your education program.
• There is no need to travel long distances to attend conventional classroom sessions. This alone enables you to save on transportation fees. You can study in your pajamas or lying down on the couch and no one will ever mind. You can earn your bachelor degree in a way most comfortable to you.
• A very flexible schedule. The speed at which you finish your coursework or assignment greatly depends on you. This means you don’t have to skip work, or miss an important family outing or dream vacation. How early or late you finish your lessons relies solely on you.
• Relatively cheaper that attending a regular school. Getting your bachelor degree online means you just have to download the lessons and other learning manuals. And the cost-saving advantage doesn’t stop there if you consider gas, dormitory, meals and tuition fees.
No reason to get lazy
But don’t ever think that there is no need for you to study hard while getting your bachelor degree online. The truth is, whether you are attending a traditional school or studying online, you need to be hardworking and disciplined nevertheless. Online education presents more or less the same syllabus as any school does. It is best if you treat it as you would a traditional learning.
Separating accredited ones from hoaxes
However, the internet is filled with a lot of scams. Of course you want to invest your precious time, money and effort only in the best online education there is. Before you enroll yourself in an online education where you intend to obtain your bachelor degree, take time out to do the following:
• Use the internet to check if the college or university is duly accredited. For instance, you can Google up the school of your choice and access its web page. Read about the school’s accreditation information. If you got further questions, list down the contact numbers of the school itself.
• You can always ask around about an accredited school. Most likely you know of people who got friends who earned a bachelor degree online. You may also visit a few message boards or education communities over the internet. People there will be able to point you to accredited schools.
It is important that you obtain an accredited online bachelor degree from a recognized school. A school’s proper accreditation can mean the difference between a qualified bachelor degree that will turn your dream career to a reality, and a complete waste of your investment.
• An opportunity to go up the career ladder. Having a bachelor degree will make it easier for anyone to get a promotion in the workplace, perking up one’s employment status and monthly salary. It will also pave the way to a dream career which the lack of a college degree prevents you from achieving.
• No need to quit your current work. Getting your bachelor degree online requires only an internet connection and access the program wherever you may be. This means you get to keep your job and continue earning as you finish your education program.
• There is no need to travel long distances to attend conventional classroom sessions. This alone enables you to save on transportation fees. You can study in your pajamas or lying down on the couch and no one will ever mind. You can earn your bachelor degree in a way most comfortable to you.
• A very flexible schedule. The speed at which you finish your coursework or assignment greatly depends on you. This means you don’t have to skip work, or miss an important family outing or dream vacation. How early or late you finish your lessons relies solely on you.
• Relatively cheaper that attending a regular school. Getting your bachelor degree online means you just have to download the lessons and other learning manuals. And the cost-saving advantage doesn’t stop there if you consider gas, dormitory, meals and tuition fees.
No reason to get lazy
But don’t ever think that there is no need for you to study hard while getting your bachelor degree online. The truth is, whether you are attending a traditional school or studying online, you need to be hardworking and disciplined nevertheless. Online education presents more or less the same syllabus as any school does. It is best if you treat it as you would a traditional learning.
Separating accredited ones from hoaxes
However, the internet is filled with a lot of scams. Of course you want to invest your precious time, money and effort only in the best online education there is. Before you enroll yourself in an online education where you intend to obtain your bachelor degree, take time out to do the following:
• Use the internet to check if the college or university is duly accredited. For instance, you can Google up the school of your choice and access its web page. Read about the school’s accreditation information. If you got further questions, list down the contact numbers of the school itself.
• You can always ask around about an accredited school. Most likely you know of people who got friends who earned a bachelor degree online. You may also visit a few message boards or education communities over the internet. People there will be able to point you to accredited schools.
It is important that you obtain an accredited online bachelor degree from a recognized school. A school’s proper accreditation can mean the difference between a qualified bachelor degree that will turn your dream career to a reality, and a complete waste of your investment.
The ABCs of online degrees
Everyone wants to have a good education. Everybody wants to get a degree to have a brighter future and a more competitive career. It important not only for people who are well off but it is more so with people who have just enough. Even during the times of the great philosophers, people would travel great lengths and travels through hell and high water to have a piece of information. Nowadays, it has become more and more important to have a good education because of the highly competitive nature of the workforce. Because of that necessity people have come up with more convenient ways of studying, one of those is online degrees.
Myths about online degrees
Like any innovative up and coming fad, there are a lot of myths about online education. New learning trends time and again are met with confrontation and online education. For online education, this struggle is from time to time experienced in the type of pessimistic assumptions.
1. Online schools are a less reputable method to receive a degree. Possibly this myth comes on or after the truth that there are many more unaccredited online schools than unaccredited conventional schools. Alternatively, possibly just the fact that online learning is new makes it prone for denigration. The truth is if an online curriculum is accredited, the degrees it presents should be appreciated and honored by employers, just like any common degree.
2. You can’t reassign credits from an online degree to a dissimilar college. Numerous people suppose that online courses can't be transferred to conventional colleges or universities. This is not essentially true. If an online education course or program is accredited by a regional accrediting organization, you can be guaranteed online credits can be transferred. In order to locate the details regarding transferring credit between schools, it is most excellent to ensure with the school to which you plan to move.
3. Online learning is easier than conventional education. Online courses, just like any conventional lessons, differ in difficulty. A quantity of online courses in fact takes additional time and effort to do well than traditional courses. In many cases, students use up more free time on online work because there is no time in class.
The requirements to get an online degree program
Online college degree programs like conventional schools often have detailed requirements for admission into a degree program. Several of the requirements for online schools are associated to latent students’ educational background. However, several of the requirements for online college degree programs are comparable to traditional schools, there are also some necessities that are exceptional to online education such as the:
- acceptable educational background for the degree that you are fascinated in pursuing;
- school requirements needed since most schools have personal set of criteria for admission into an online degree program, thus if you are attracted in a school’s program it is imperative to inquire with the precise school for extra information;
- equipment needed such as the computer which is a very important for the online learning practice since much of your schoolwork will have need of a computer; and
- Internet access that is fast and reliable and often is needed because linking to the online course material will be required throughout the duration of the course.
Online degrees are not that hard to come by, all you need is a little hard work and a lot of patience and before you know it the degree that you are working for maybe closer that you think.
Myths about online degrees
Like any innovative up and coming fad, there are a lot of myths about online education. New learning trends time and again are met with confrontation and online education. For online education, this struggle is from time to time experienced in the type of pessimistic assumptions.
1. Online schools are a less reputable method to receive a degree. Possibly this myth comes on or after the truth that there are many more unaccredited online schools than unaccredited conventional schools. Alternatively, possibly just the fact that online learning is new makes it prone for denigration. The truth is if an online curriculum is accredited, the degrees it presents should be appreciated and honored by employers, just like any common degree.
2. You can’t reassign credits from an online degree to a dissimilar college. Numerous people suppose that online courses can't be transferred to conventional colleges or universities. This is not essentially true. If an online education course or program is accredited by a regional accrediting organization, you can be guaranteed online credits can be transferred. In order to locate the details regarding transferring credit between schools, it is most excellent to ensure with the school to which you plan to move.
3. Online learning is easier than conventional education. Online courses, just like any conventional lessons, differ in difficulty. A quantity of online courses in fact takes additional time and effort to do well than traditional courses. In many cases, students use up more free time on online work because there is no time in class.
The requirements to get an online degree program
Online college degree programs like conventional schools often have detailed requirements for admission into a degree program. Several of the requirements for online schools are associated to latent students’ educational background. However, several of the requirements for online college degree programs are comparable to traditional schools, there are also some necessities that are exceptional to online education such as the:
- acceptable educational background for the degree that you are fascinated in pursuing;
- school requirements needed since most schools have personal set of criteria for admission into an online degree program, thus if you are attracted in a school’s program it is imperative to inquire with the precise school for extra information;
- equipment needed such as the computer which is a very important for the online learning practice since much of your schoolwork will have need of a computer; and
- Internet access that is fast and reliable and often is needed because linking to the online course material will be required throughout the duration of the course.
Online degrees are not that hard to come by, all you need is a little hard work and a lot of patience and before you know it the degree that you are working for maybe closer that you think.
Requirements for Online College Degree Programs
The proliferation of online degree programs offer everybody a chance to avail of a much-desired degree at the comfort of your own home and at your preferred pace, however, just like any traditional degree program, there are also requirements for online degree programs.
This is one way of ensuring not only regulatory and a checks and balance system, the process of getting through with all requirements is also a way to ensure the quality and standards of the inline degree program that one hopes to pursue.
Online college degree programs, like any other traditional school, also have specific admission requirements for entry into a degree program.
One of the major requirements for an online degree program by the schools offering it are mostly related to a potential students’ educational background and while many of the requirements for online programs are similar to traditional schools, there are some provisions that are unique to online or distance learning.
Here are some of those requirements;
One is the correct educational background for the degree of interested that one would opt to pursue.
If a person is interested in an upper level degree, perhaps an Online Masters Degree Program, a candidate must obtain a bachelors or baccalaureate degree.
Moreover, a similar process applies to online doctoral studies, where a candidate can only pursue a doctoral degree if the student has already earned a masters’ degree.
In some cases where a person would like to pursue a lower level degree like a certificate or Associate program, a high school diploma is sufficient.
School-specific requirements also apply, since a school has its own set of criteria for entry into an online degree program, thus, if you are interested in a school’s program it is important to inquire with the desired school for more information regarding their requirements, costs and guidelines, among others.
Since an online degree program would require one to be in front of a computer throughout the program process, a good performance computer with internet connection is definitely a must.
Although you can study at your own pace with an online degree program, bowever, this does not guarantee that you will have all the time in the world to go through the program anytime you wish.
There is are also time-bound limits to inline degree programs since educational programs also go through an advancement process, it is also imperative that students of online degree programs also adhere to time-bound principles for the these online programs.
Another common requirement are the course deliverables, including but not limited to the periodic or term examinations, project papers, research, term papers and other related paperworks, depending on the online degree program pursued.
Internet access is the means of connecting to online course material and other online students and most, if not all, schools would require students pursuing an online college degree program.
So, whether it be through the traditional degree program or the revolutionary online degree programs, the bottomline is it offers the diversity and versatility of the educational process and making it more available to those who wish to pursue better learning or even a fulfillment of a long-cherished dream to earn a degree.
All the same, like any other degree program, every requirement for online college degree programs are geared towards ensuring a better quality of education and the pursuit of academic excellence.
This is one way of ensuring not only regulatory and a checks and balance system, the process of getting through with all requirements is also a way to ensure the quality and standards of the inline degree program that one hopes to pursue.
Online college degree programs, like any other traditional school, also have specific admission requirements for entry into a degree program.
One of the major requirements for an online degree program by the schools offering it are mostly related to a potential students’ educational background and while many of the requirements for online programs are similar to traditional schools, there are some provisions that are unique to online or distance learning.
Here are some of those requirements;
One is the correct educational background for the degree of interested that one would opt to pursue.
If a person is interested in an upper level degree, perhaps an Online Masters Degree Program, a candidate must obtain a bachelors or baccalaureate degree.
Moreover, a similar process applies to online doctoral studies, where a candidate can only pursue a doctoral degree if the student has already earned a masters’ degree.
In some cases where a person would like to pursue a lower level degree like a certificate or Associate program, a high school diploma is sufficient.
School-specific requirements also apply, since a school has its own set of criteria for entry into an online degree program, thus, if you are interested in a school’s program it is important to inquire with the desired school for more information regarding their requirements, costs and guidelines, among others.
Since an online degree program would require one to be in front of a computer throughout the program process, a good performance computer with internet connection is definitely a must.
Although you can study at your own pace with an online degree program, bowever, this does not guarantee that you will have all the time in the world to go through the program anytime you wish.
There is are also time-bound limits to inline degree programs since educational programs also go through an advancement process, it is also imperative that students of online degree programs also adhere to time-bound principles for the these online programs.
Another common requirement are the course deliverables, including but not limited to the periodic or term examinations, project papers, research, term papers and other related paperworks, depending on the online degree program pursued.
Internet access is the means of connecting to online course material and other online students and most, if not all, schools would require students pursuing an online college degree program.
So, whether it be through the traditional degree program or the revolutionary online degree programs, the bottomline is it offers the diversity and versatility of the educational process and making it more available to those who wish to pursue better learning or even a fulfillment of a long-cherished dream to earn a degree.
All the same, like any other degree program, every requirement for online college degree programs are geared towards ensuring a better quality of education and the pursuit of academic excellence.
Types of online degree programs
Earning a your desired degree right at the comfort of your own home is now possible, thanks to the many types of online degree programs. In today’s fast-paced generation, where lifestyles and careers greatly differ from that of previous decades, it is not a surprise to find out that many people oftentimes balance career and family life, that has resulted to many not sensing the need to pursue a higher level of education beyond the secondary level.
But with the emergence of online degree programs, many are given the chance to pursue that long-desired educational attainments at their own pace and at the comfort of their own homes.
Nowadays, the same degrees offered through traditional institutions and universities are also offered through online college degree programs, where students in online programs can also earn their desired educational degrees.
The simplest and least tedious online degree program is the Certificate degree, which is geared towards providing a focused educational program by applying the basic theoretical framework and educational process of a particular career specialty.
Online Certificate degrees are as varied as any other online degree course, but will take up less time to finish, and are only focused on certain specialties of any general career field. A certificate program usually lasts no more than a year.
Next is the Associate online degree program, which is a program broader than a certificate degree.
An associate program offers to provide the basic and related studies of certain career fields.
An Associate program does not require an apprenticeship process, unlike a baccalaureate or bachelor’s degree, where it is a requirement for completion.
Online education also offer Bachelors degree programs. As stated earlier, it requires an apprenticeship program before it can be earned.
Masters degrees can also be earned online through the distance learning program offered my many colleges and universities. A bachelors degree is a prerequisite for this degree program.
Online Masters degree programs are as tedious and detail-oriented as traditional masters degree programs.
Although you get to study at your own pace, an aspirant for an online masters degree program is not bereft of researches, related studies and paper works required for this post-graduate program.
The prestige of a master’s degree to belt offers better chances and opportunities for higher career opportunities with higher pay and level of position in the workplace.
The highest online degree program is just like any other traditional degree program, which is the Doctorate degree.
The masters degree is also a prerequisite for the doctorate degree program and is the highest educational degree that can be attained.
There are numerous universities and institutions worldwide offering online doctoral degree programs, which is as prestigious as any traditional degree program.
However, this does not mean that all disciplines are offered through online degree programs.
There are still many subjects, such as medical programs and student-teacher training processes, among others, that would still require the traditional institutional process due to the nature of the work.
Since there are still many career paths that require hands-on training, some online college degree programs, in order to remedy the hands-on training requirement, offer blended programs that require students to do a combination of work online and in-class, not limited to fieldwork.
Should one wish to check out more information about the types of online degree programs and their offerings, try to look it up online and look for programs that would best suit your needs.
But with the emergence of online degree programs, many are given the chance to pursue that long-desired educational attainments at their own pace and at the comfort of their own homes.
Nowadays, the same degrees offered through traditional institutions and universities are also offered through online college degree programs, where students in online programs can also earn their desired educational degrees.
The simplest and least tedious online degree program is the Certificate degree, which is geared towards providing a focused educational program by applying the basic theoretical framework and educational process of a particular career specialty.
Online Certificate degrees are as varied as any other online degree course, but will take up less time to finish, and are only focused on certain specialties of any general career field. A certificate program usually lasts no more than a year.
Next is the Associate online degree program, which is a program broader than a certificate degree.
An associate program offers to provide the basic and related studies of certain career fields.
An Associate program does not require an apprenticeship process, unlike a baccalaureate or bachelor’s degree, where it is a requirement for completion.
Online education also offer Bachelors degree programs. As stated earlier, it requires an apprenticeship program before it can be earned.
Masters degrees can also be earned online through the distance learning program offered my many colleges and universities. A bachelors degree is a prerequisite for this degree program.
Online Masters degree programs are as tedious and detail-oriented as traditional masters degree programs.
Although you get to study at your own pace, an aspirant for an online masters degree program is not bereft of researches, related studies and paper works required for this post-graduate program.
The prestige of a master’s degree to belt offers better chances and opportunities for higher career opportunities with higher pay and level of position in the workplace.
The highest online degree program is just like any other traditional degree program, which is the Doctorate degree.
The masters degree is also a prerequisite for the doctorate degree program and is the highest educational degree that can be attained.
There are numerous universities and institutions worldwide offering online doctoral degree programs, which is as prestigious as any traditional degree program.
However, this does not mean that all disciplines are offered through online degree programs.
There are still many subjects, such as medical programs and student-teacher training processes, among others, that would still require the traditional institutional process due to the nature of the work.
Since there are still many career paths that require hands-on training, some online college degree programs, in order to remedy the hands-on training requirement, offer blended programs that require students to do a combination of work online and in-class, not limited to fieldwork.
Should one wish to check out more information about the types of online degree programs and their offerings, try to look it up online and look for programs that would best suit your needs.
What to look for in an online degree
The industry of online education has indeed come a long way. Online degrees are a dime a dozen nowadays and some major universities are even riding the new wave and installing their own online degrees that are patterned from the courses that they offer in their schools.
This is a welcome change especially to those who seek to legitimize the online education industry. Before, people see it as something that people can take when they don’t have the budget or the time to really seriously study. Most of the courses are short-term and often those that only strengthen the skill. Some do not even give out diplomas only certificate that people can add to their diplomas for a better looking resume.
This is not so today. Now, more and more universities are offering online degrees that really give out diplomas to its students. The length of study is the same as when you enroll in traditional courses. Some will even have sit-down classes added to the online curriculum as some subjects are not really fit to be studied online like Science subjects, which require laboratory work and experiments.
But with the increasing number of online degrees being offered, people are confronted with a bigger dilemma. Which should you take? Below are some of the things that you can look when applying for an online degree.
1. School or educational institution
Remember that there are still educational institutions that are using this platform to con a lot of students. That is why it is better to stick to institutions that already have names or those that have established a good reputation in the field. You will not be able to expect better education in these types of schools, you can also be sure that more companies will be able to recognize and accept your diploma.
2. Schedule
Even if it is an online course, there will still be a schedule of classes and before you sign up, make sure that you have an idea on whether you can participate and attend the online classes. That way, you can be sure that the money that you will be paying will be well worth it. Besides, if you will not be able to keep up with the schedule, you can always enroll at another date.
3. Curriculum
Most educational institutions online will give you a rundown of the courses and the lessons that they will be giving you during the course. Study the lessons that they will be offering and see if they fit what you need. There are online courses that allow for students to customize their education according to their needs. If you feel that the course is not what you need then you can always look for other online degrees. There are a lot in the market, don't you worry.
4. Teachers
If you really want to learn, then research on the teachers that will be handling the course in the online school. Remember that though you will not be seeing them as you take the online degree, they will still be the ones to impart their knowledge. They will factor a lot in how well you learn and how much you learn. Look at their education and their credentials in the field that you will be taking up. Do they have graduate degrees? Are they big names in the industry that you are getting into?
This is a welcome change especially to those who seek to legitimize the online education industry. Before, people see it as something that people can take when they don’t have the budget or the time to really seriously study. Most of the courses are short-term and often those that only strengthen the skill. Some do not even give out diplomas only certificate that people can add to their diplomas for a better looking resume.
This is not so today. Now, more and more universities are offering online degrees that really give out diplomas to its students. The length of study is the same as when you enroll in traditional courses. Some will even have sit-down classes added to the online curriculum as some subjects are not really fit to be studied online like Science subjects, which require laboratory work and experiments.
But with the increasing number of online degrees being offered, people are confronted with a bigger dilemma. Which should you take? Below are some of the things that you can look when applying for an online degree.
1. School or educational institution
Remember that there are still educational institutions that are using this platform to con a lot of students. That is why it is better to stick to institutions that already have names or those that have established a good reputation in the field. You will not be able to expect better education in these types of schools, you can also be sure that more companies will be able to recognize and accept your diploma.
2. Schedule
Even if it is an online course, there will still be a schedule of classes and before you sign up, make sure that you have an idea on whether you can participate and attend the online classes. That way, you can be sure that the money that you will be paying will be well worth it. Besides, if you will not be able to keep up with the schedule, you can always enroll at another date.
3. Curriculum
Most educational institutions online will give you a rundown of the courses and the lessons that they will be giving you during the course. Study the lessons that they will be offering and see if they fit what you need. There are online courses that allow for students to customize their education according to their needs. If you feel that the course is not what you need then you can always look for other online degrees. There are a lot in the market, don't you worry.
4. Teachers
If you really want to learn, then research on the teachers that will be handling the course in the online school. Remember that though you will not be seeing them as you take the online degree, they will still be the ones to impart their knowledge. They will factor a lot in how well you learn and how much you learn. Look at their education and their credentials in the field that you will be taking up. Do they have graduate degrees? Are they big names in the industry that you are getting into?
What you should know before you enroll in an online degree
Online degrees are hot commodities. With the rising prices of college tuitions and the also skyrocketing prices of gas, some high school graduates are turning their attention to courses that are being offered online. After all, without having to travel and to attend classes, they will be cutting their college spending by a lot with their savings in gas expenses and miscellaneous fees for the school year.
But getting an online degree is not all sweetness and light. Even though you basically do not have to wake up early in the morning to get to class, there are other facts that you need to deal with in order to decide whether an online course is for you. That is why it is important that you study your options and see where you stand. Online degrees are not for everybody, the same way that university degrees are not. If you are caught in between, there are some university degrees that offer hybrid methods. This means that majority of your classes may be online but there will be some conducted in the classroom setting and vice versa.
1. There is less interaction
Being in an online course means that you will no be able to interact with your classmates and teachers. Unlike in middle school and high school, they will be able to foster relationships. In fact, some students just get to know each other because they are groupmates in one project and therefore will have to meet up outside the online class.
If you are the type to flourish with independent work, this is for you. People who are not much into reciting verbally because of timidity or stage fright will find online classes a breath of fresh air because they don't need to open their mouths when they comment. They just need to write them down.
2. More paperwork
Because you rarely see each other, your teachers will have to rely on some solid evidence of your learning and your improvement as an individual. They can do this by assigning project theses and project portfolio that they will be able to work on independently or with group mates. Usually, teachers will give out group and individual projects.
3. Time management is still key
If you think you have managed to escape the trials of being always on time, guess again. Just because you do not have to wake up early does not mean that you don't have to log on early when there is a class. Actually, kinda like your schedule in the university, you will also be required to attend classes virtually. The only difference is, you can join the class anywhere from the world. Now you don't have any more excuse not to come.
4. Not yet recognized
Online degrees although a dime and dozen already in the Internet are still not recognized as legitimate full-time online degree. Some companies still see online courses as those that are only taken for shorter amounts of time either because of its vocational, skill-building or technical lessons.
Still there are other courses that are recognized degrees. You just have to make sure that you enroll in those kinds of online degrees. Often, you can find them being offered by large and prestigious universities in the region.
But getting an online degree is not all sweetness and light. Even though you basically do not have to wake up early in the morning to get to class, there are other facts that you need to deal with in order to decide whether an online course is for you. That is why it is important that you study your options and see where you stand. Online degrees are not for everybody, the same way that university degrees are not. If you are caught in between, there are some university degrees that offer hybrid methods. This means that majority of your classes may be online but there will be some conducted in the classroom setting and vice versa.
1. There is less interaction
Being in an online course means that you will no be able to interact with your classmates and teachers. Unlike in middle school and high school, they will be able to foster relationships. In fact, some students just get to know each other because they are groupmates in one project and therefore will have to meet up outside the online class.
If you are the type to flourish with independent work, this is for you. People who are not much into reciting verbally because of timidity or stage fright will find online classes a breath of fresh air because they don't need to open their mouths when they comment. They just need to write them down.
2. More paperwork
Because you rarely see each other, your teachers will have to rely on some solid evidence of your learning and your improvement as an individual. They can do this by assigning project theses and project portfolio that they will be able to work on independently or with group mates. Usually, teachers will give out group and individual projects.
3. Time management is still key
If you think you have managed to escape the trials of being always on time, guess again. Just because you do not have to wake up early does not mean that you don't have to log on early when there is a class. Actually, kinda like your schedule in the university, you will also be required to attend classes virtually. The only difference is, you can join the class anywhere from the world. Now you don't have any more excuse not to come.
4. Not yet recognized
Online degrees although a dime and dozen already in the Internet are still not recognized as legitimate full-time online degree. Some companies still see online courses as those that are only taken for shorter amounts of time either because of its vocational, skill-building or technical lessons.
Still there are other courses that are recognized degrees. You just have to make sure that you enroll in those kinds of online degrees. Often, you can find them being offered by large and prestigious universities in the region.
Why an online degree?
This is a question that if asked from someone ten years ago would balk at the idea of replacing the traditional education process to that of an innovative, study0from home approach. Nowadays, with the advent of technology and the internet, the prospect of having an online degree is becoming one of the fastest growing segment of the global educational system- one that is cost-efficient and widely-encompassing.
Practically, online education is particularly well-suited to people seeking career education but whose circumstances either prevent them from doing so in a traditional classroom setting or those seeking for a variety of degree programs catered to their specific needs.
Often those interested in further career training wouldn't be able to manage a traditional school schedule, thus, the option to take an online degree right at the comfort of their own homes, or the convenience of pursuing a degree by adjusting to their individual schedules.
The beauty of online career education is that it allows professionals with full time jobs, full-time parents and aspiring students who cannot afford to move to a different territory to attend college classes, provide them with the opportunity to earn a degree without having to take a step out of their front home porches.
Most online degree programs offer a variety of classes, assignments, and involvement, which is one consideration an aspiring candidate must weigh to find the program that best fit your needs.
On the other hand, an online career education can be a great way to advance an individual’s field of endeavor.
Many people seek training within a field in which they already work, focused primarily on getting a step promotion or aspire for a higher position within the company they’re working for and would need a higher level of education for the post.
By pursuing their career training online, they do not need to leave their current position in order to pursue further certification, and can pursue their studies during time off work.
Working students who are currently endeavoring within a field while they are pursuing often feel that their ability to immediately apply lessons they have learned in their online degree programs and work better at more advanced processes that make them get more out of their education.
Truth be told, there are a myriad reasons why someone would need to choose an online degree rather than traditional and conventional ways of higher education.
Nowadays, in the face of a competitive and demanding market, most online degree programs are now seen as high quality educational programs.
Here are some common motivations for people to choose online degrees :
Online degrees make it possible to study for people who live far away, especially for people living in isolated communities or far from the nearest college or university.
Online degrees also allow very busy people, full-time parents and company executives to choose the timing and schedule of their studies, not having to spend all the time confined to classrooms.
Online degrees also offer accessibility and convenience for people who did not have the luxury of time to achieve a formal degree when they were younger, and whether they are at home, the office, and at the desired pace without compromising work or family schedules, they now have the opportunity to complete their education.
Online degrees are also very helpful to people with special circumstances, like immigrants whose original diplomas are not valid in their new country, former convicts and socially-excluded individuals, among others, who are now afforded the access to high quality distance education and ensure them a brighter future.
Online degrees can be mobile, no matter where you are. Whether you are in the jungles of Africa, taking a vacation on a firs-class resort or taking a road trip, the versatility of online degree programs provide that sense of freedom and not getting tied down to your educational responsibilities like conventional classroom learning.
So ask yourself again, why an online degree? Why not?
Practically, online education is particularly well-suited to people seeking career education but whose circumstances either prevent them from doing so in a traditional classroom setting or those seeking for a variety of degree programs catered to their specific needs.
Often those interested in further career training wouldn't be able to manage a traditional school schedule, thus, the option to take an online degree right at the comfort of their own homes, or the convenience of pursuing a degree by adjusting to their individual schedules.
The beauty of online career education is that it allows professionals with full time jobs, full-time parents and aspiring students who cannot afford to move to a different territory to attend college classes, provide them with the opportunity to earn a degree without having to take a step out of their front home porches.
Most online degree programs offer a variety of classes, assignments, and involvement, which is one consideration an aspiring candidate must weigh to find the program that best fit your needs.
On the other hand, an online career education can be a great way to advance an individual’s field of endeavor.
Many people seek training within a field in which they already work, focused primarily on getting a step promotion or aspire for a higher position within the company they’re working for and would need a higher level of education for the post.
By pursuing their career training online, they do not need to leave their current position in order to pursue further certification, and can pursue their studies during time off work.
Working students who are currently endeavoring within a field while they are pursuing often feel that their ability to immediately apply lessons they have learned in their online degree programs and work better at more advanced processes that make them get more out of their education.
Truth be told, there are a myriad reasons why someone would need to choose an online degree rather than traditional and conventional ways of higher education.
Nowadays, in the face of a competitive and demanding market, most online degree programs are now seen as high quality educational programs.
Here are some common motivations for people to choose online degrees :
Online degrees make it possible to study for people who live far away, especially for people living in isolated communities or far from the nearest college or university.
Online degrees also allow very busy people, full-time parents and company executives to choose the timing and schedule of their studies, not having to spend all the time confined to classrooms.
Online degrees also offer accessibility and convenience for people who did not have the luxury of time to achieve a formal degree when they were younger, and whether they are at home, the office, and at the desired pace without compromising work or family schedules, they now have the opportunity to complete their education.
Online degrees are also very helpful to people with special circumstances, like immigrants whose original diplomas are not valid in their new country, former convicts and socially-excluded individuals, among others, who are now afforded the access to high quality distance education and ensure them a brighter future.
Online degrees can be mobile, no matter where you are. Whether you are in the jungles of Africa, taking a vacation on a firs-class resort or taking a road trip, the versatility of online degree programs provide that sense of freedom and not getting tied down to your educational responsibilities like conventional classroom learning.
So ask yourself again, why an online degree? Why not?
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