Why are Record Numbers of Adults Enrolling in College?
There are now far more adults pursuing college and graduate school degrees than ever in history.
The factors responsible for this growing trend are readily identifiable. The most obvious is that the tremendous growth of online education has made it possible…even easy…for adults to schedule their academic responsibilities around the other demands on their time.
Next, it is now easier than ever for adults to qualify for financial aid, especially for online education. Twenty years ago, almost no aid was available to students enrolled in online degree programs or distance education.
Another factor responsible for the growing number of adults returning to higher education is the greatly increased acceptance of online degrees. Several recent surveys have found that employers are more likely than in past years to view an online degree as being valuable.
Just as online college programs are now frequently accepted as being equivalent to traditional, campus-based degrees, the awarding of college credit for life experience has enjoyed increasing acceptance in recent years. As a result, time-to-degree has been reduced for many adults. So has the cost.
And, it’s not just online colleges that are enrolling more adults. Traditional colleges are growing by making it possible for working adults to earn a degree by attending evening and/or weekend classes.
Convenience, the availability of scholarships and financial aid, the growth of online education, and other factors have been major contributors to the huge growth of adult higher education. But, most adults currently enrolled in degree programs will tell you the primary reason for their return to school is to acquire the skills and credentials necessary for career advancement.
Whatever your reason(s) for considering a return to school, be aware that you are living in a world where there are far more good educational options available to adults than ever before.
Careers Choices with Associate Degrees
An associates degree is often awarded through junior and community colleges as well as some 4-year institutions. To be awarded an associate degree you generally need about 60 credit hours.
On average, if you take classes full-time, you can earn your associates degree in about two years. However, part-time students enjoy are quite flexible with online classes and have a broad selection of classes that they require to complete their program of study.
There are two options for associate degrees – those that are aimed at professional preparation in your field of choice, and those that offer you the opportunity to complete general education requirements. In these programs you take your required program requirements, electives, and some general education courses. If you enroll in full time courses, you will generally take about 15 credit hours or about four semester. In accelerated distance learning programs you have the option of being more flexible will meeting the rigorous requirements of campus programs,
Two-year degrees are available in a variety of areas in business and management, education, and liberal arts. Some online degree options to consider are business, accounting, nursing, criminal justice, education, early childhood development, computer and information systems, health administration, medical administration as an example.
General education courses are an integral part of most associate degrees online and include coursework in Communication, Natural Sciences/Mathematics, Humanities, and Social Science. You can earn an Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree program, an Associate in Science (A.S.) degree program or an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree programs depending on whether you pursue arts or science track.
Both professional and occupational degree programs give their graduates the advantage of being qualified for entry-level positions in professions such as medical assisting, computer networking, computer programming, nursing, paralegal, and criminal justice. These programs offer graduate the advantage of expedited entry into their profession.
Generally, you will be required to have a high school diploma or GED. You also need a good GPA and some schools may want to see your SAT or ACT scores. Other colleges will accept relevant work experience in lieu of a diploma to qualify the student for entry. Confirm this with the college you are interested in.
With more adults working fulltime, yet wishing to return to college to get a degree or develop their knowledge and skills set, the need and demand for flexible online programs has also grown. One way to help you make the right decision is to conduct research on what online programs are accredited. In addition, also find out if they offer financial aid as an option to those who want to attend school full time.
Online Education: An Affordable Alternative for Working Adults
If you are searching for a way to better yourself through education, you may be looking into taking some online classes or a degree program. What are the things that you are looking for that will convince you to sign up for one? Here are some great ways to find an affordable online degree program that will get you started on the right track and help you achieve your educations goals.
If you think finding an online program is going to be a task – think again, it’s getting easier all the time thanks to resources found online. Many bigger schools are adding distance learning and virtual classroom technology to make it easier for students to complete their programs. It’s currently possible to find entire degree programs from associates to doctorates that are completely conducted online. Why? Because indicators have shown that virtual learning is better, more effective and helps busy students of all ages find time to complete their educational goals. Even busy parents or full-time career people can complete their degrees online.
Online degree programs are more affordable than traditional brick and mortar institutions. That’s mainly due to the lower costs associated with online programs, where instructors may teach from the convenience of their home offices, teach more courses and not require much in the way of salaries. This is as opposed to traditional learning environments where there is a building to maintain, lights to keep on and many staff members such as campus security, library personnel or other adjust faculty that must be paid for their time.
Getting financial aid to cover the costs of an online program is actually a simple process. Not only are accredited online programs eligible for grants, financial aid loans and other sources of assistance, but there are many more opportunities for students to qualify for scholarships. An excellent resource when searching for these scholarships is by heading to your computer and searching online, where you can locate possible sources of financial help in just minutes.
If you are working for an employer who offers tuition reimbursement, then you may want to take advantage of that as well. Many employers value higher education and training for their staff, so they are more than willing to help you pay for your education. Better educated employees are much more effective problem solvers and productive assets of the company. Look for many employers to finance at least $5K annually or more. Some will help with books and other college fees to make sure you reach your goals. After you do, be sure to work for your employer for at least a year or more to let them know you appreciated their help.
Getting an online degree does not have to be as difficult as one may think. There are many ways to find a program and learn about financing that program by doing research online.
Distance Education- The World is in Your Hands
Distance education has come a long way since it was first developed in the 1700′s when weekly course assignments were passed out by horsemen messengers in a very small area of Boston. In the 19th century correspondence courses got a serious boost when the Postal Service was established and college courses could be completed in a matter of six to ten years. That was a major boon to Victorians looking to advance their education. It got even better when airplanes came and started express mailing assignments.
Today we do it in real time! Distance education like many other disciplines has come into its own with the advancement of the internet and computers. With the lightning speed of the internet and the well heeled platform of Web 2.0 attending an online university has come a long way since the 1700′s or even the 19th century. Forget 6-10 years or even 4-5 years, you can pretty much get your degree anytime you want.
The flexibility of online courses has put you in the driver’s seat. You can work as hard as you want or take your time depending on your situation but one thing remains true, you can get a quality education and achieve a higher degree that is just as marketable from an online college as a traditional one.
Your career options will become much more accessible and varied because of your education. No matter which type of degree you seek, or what level of education you’re after, your degree will show that you’re committed to your career choice. There are online programs for all levels of education, which will be a great tool to add to your arsenal. After all, you need everything you can to get the career that you want in today’s society, and online education is sure to help.
You don’t have to worry about the hassle of moving or commuting to a traditional campus, and the possibilities of what you can do with an online degree are basically endless. You can work anywhere you like, as long as you’ve got a computer. Also, the online education programs are much more affordable than traditional college or university educations.
Distance education is not a new concept. However, the advances in technology have made it much more accessible and convenient than ever before, which has increased its popularity. Many people turn to online education on a daily basis as a way to advance or jump start their careers. Since it’s affordable and convenient, online education is great for anyone who wants to pursue it. You can even enroll in an online program and start your education right now.
College Admission: An Inside Look
Question a high schooler about his/her greatest sources of stress and you can bet that college admission is close to the top of the list.
To make the process even more stressful (to parents as well as students), many people are confused about how it works. Perhaps we can clarify things a bit here.
Sure, a student’s high school transcript is critically important. But, when an admissions committee reviews transcripts, it looks at more than grades and GPA. The more selective colleges are very focused on the degree to which students challenge themselves as demonstrated by AP courses, honors courses, and courses that may not come easily to them.
Similarly, admissions committees at selective institutions expect students to carry a rigorous academic load for four years. A light twelfth grade schedule can mean the kiss of death.
ACT and SAT scores do not carry the same weight everywhere that they once did; in fact, some institutions no longer require them. However, they remain a major factor at many colleges and universities. The one constant is that virtually no college believes that standardized test scores do a better job of predicting college success than academic achievement.
Fewer colleges than ever require recommendations, but they can be important if they are strong enough or weak enough. If you are certain your recommendations will be good, waive your right to see them; it might increase their weight.
Extra-curricular activities, work experience, and community service, unless extraordinary, are generally less important to admissions committees than most people believe. Being “well rounded” seldom compensates for academic deficiencies or gives an applicant’s candidacy a big boost.
Are there exceptions? Are athletes, legacies (children of alumni), and the well connected sometimes given a break? The answer is yes, but the vast majority of students fall within the published profiles of the colleges they attend.
Essays, when required, are likely to be no more than a tip factor, unless their quality (high or low) make them stand out. An institution’s wish for diversity (ethnic, racial, cultural, or geographic) may also influence a small percentage of admissions decisions.
Here is a factor that surprises many families, because it’s not often discussed. As a result of institutional ego, and the desire to be viewed as prestigious, colleges may deny admission to students they feel are unlikely to enroll while admitting weaker applicants who appear more likely to attend if granted admission. That is why experienced counselors advise students to visit colleges, meet with admissions counselors at college fairs, and take other steps to demonstrate serious interest in the colleges to which they decide to apply.
Some colleges have very straightforward admissions criteria; complete a prescribed group of courses, achieve specified GPA’s and test scores, and you’re in. Those colleges are in the minority; at most, there are numerous variables that can come into play. The solution is to not agonize over the process. Instead, do the best you can in the classroom and in your community, and be sure that your college list includes two institutions which are a good fit for you and are almost certain to offer you admission.
Traditional and Online Degree Programs: Is there a difference?
Whether you choose a traditional or an online college, higher education is worthwhile. An online degree can allow you to get a better job or earn more at the job you currently have. That being said, it is important to take the time to do a little research and a little thinking before you pay your tuition. Here are a few questions you might want to ask yourself.
What do you want to learn about? Sometimes, you might have to choose a traditional, rather than an online college, in order to take the classes that you are interested in. Some fields require lab-work or other classes that cannot be completed long distance. Today, many colleges allow you to complete some of your courses over the Internet, while attending a few classes in the traditional setting. This may give you more options.
Will you need financial aid? At one time, financial aid was only available at traditional campuses. Today, you can qualify for financial aid, scholarships and student loans, even if you are hoping to earn an online degree.
But, be sure to read the fine print if you are applying for a loan. The Federal Trade Commission has warnings about deceptive loan offers that are targeted towards students. The lenders that offer these loans charge high interest rates and unreasonable terms. You may qualify for a federal loan. That’s a better choice.
How much time do I have? Earning an online degree requires an investment of time and money. While it is a worthwhile investment, it is important to consider how much free time you have and how quickly you would like to receive your diploma.
The FTC also warns students about “Diploma Mills”. These kinds of scammers have been in business for a long time. The Internet is their latest venue of operation. If it looks like an online college, but you are promised a degree in a very short time, then you have run across a Diploma Mill. The paper is worthless.
Are you motivated to achieve? Working towards an online degree or a traditional diploma requires some motivation. The Internet allows many people to work at their own pace, but there are still some deadlines. A person that usually puts things off to the last minute will need to get in the habit of scheduling regular study time.
If you decide that an online college is the right choice for you, it is wise to plan on doing your class work at a specific time of day and promising yourself to stick to that schedule. Students attending traditional universities have to do the same thing.
You can succeed in learning online, but you need to start by following these guidelines
World economies have changed dramatically over the last few years, and will continue to change at an increasing pace. And with these changes have come corresponding changes in our work and our lives. Lifelong education becomes particularly important in this constantly changing, highly competitive, environment.
Education on-campus at university or college is a fixed place, fixed time activity that is not possible for many people because of jobs or other commitments. Online learning, on the other hand, is an anywhere, anytime, any place activity that provides a flexible learning solution for such people. However, all too often learners are disappointed with their first experience of online learning because they didnt realise the problems they would face. Here are six things that the learner should watch out for.
Online education is a flexible form of education, but it doesnt mean that you can keep putting off your learning day after day. All too often, that is what often happens ” and this results in failure to learn. So be organised ” manage your time. Set aside a regular time in your diary for study of the material and completion of assignments.
To complete a degree online means often working alone when your friends are out enjoying themselves, and it means maintaining this level of commitment for a long period of time. To achieve this, you must have a high degree of motivation. We did some research on success factors for our mature-age online learners. The number one factor wasnt previous exam results ” it was motivation. Even with very few previous academic qualifications, we found that students would succeed providing they were motivated. So, do make sure that you are highly motivated.
You shouldn’t only acquire knowledge ” you should also acquire the skills to acquire knowledge. In particular, learning online requires that you develop these skills. This means having well-developed critical reading and thinking skills as well as the technical skills of how find books or web sites on a particular subject.
If you are learning online, the materials replace the lectures that students get in a face-to-face course. But they usually does more than those lectures ” the courseware often includes questions, exercises and further reading so that your learning can be active rather than passive. And that is the key – ACTIVE LEARNING. Make sure that you complete all the exercises and actively read the text.
Lectures in high school classrooms and in undergraduate classes can all so easily encourage the passive learning already referred to. But real learning takes place when you are interacting with the materials and with others. So try to find a learning group, either in your area or online, and exchange ideas regularly. Also, make sure that you respond to all the e-Tutors requests for participation in the discussion forums. There may even be a mark allocated for such participation.
I recently heard of a government official who had his position taken away from him on the grounds that he hadnt earned his qualifications because they were from a diploma mill – a business that simply prints diplomas and degrees. He protested that he had earned them because he paid good money for them. You must always make sure that the online qualification you receive is from an accredited institution and the form of accreditation is recognised in your country. Never buy a qualification from a diploma mill.
Quickest Degree – Five Steps to Getting a Bachelor Degree in the Quickest Time Possible!
It is a bright shiny world for people with college degrees. You will find that numerous doors will open for you, once you have some kind of advanced degree in your chosen profession where there is demand for more employees. To get the most of a degree you have to complete your schooling though.
With this in mind, you need to know that the more time it takes you to complete on your degree, the more chance there is that great opportunities will get away from you. This is the reason many choose the quickest way to get a bachelor’s degree. It is important here though, to point out 5 useful steps to ensure you earn your bachelor’s degree as quickly as possible.
Step Number 1: To Receive Credit, Pass the Advanced Placement Tests
For all degrees including bachelor’s degrees certain requirements are needed for the degree, these are usually called core courses. While all students usually understand this point, they do not always know that there are some courses that you can be tested on externally to get credit. You get tested on your knowledge on the subject, and if you manage to get a high grade, then you do not have to complete the subject, and you still get your credits. For some students this has helped erase complete semesters from their path to earning a bachelor’s degree.
Step Number 2: Take your Bachelor’s Degree Program Online
Enrolling courses online can also help you speed up your bachelors degree program. Namely, online course provide an opportunity to take courses at your own convenience. This is perfect not only for those who work full-time, but those who wish to load up on their credits in order to acquire the quickest bachelor degree. Yes, it can be a lot of work to add online classes to your schedule; but, the end result could be a degree achieved a year or more earlier.
Step Number 3: Find a Flexible Program
Avoid any school that has programs that are not flexible. Many universities have great programs setup but the way they schedule classes does not work for people trying to get a bachelor’s degree quickly. Sometimes the core courses are only held during the daytime, which means you have to work all other classes around them. Most of time, you wind up having to put off something you want to take until another semester. This slows down your efforts of attaining your bachelor’s degree the quickest way.
Step Number 4: Take Courses 12 Months out of the Year
Work on your courses all year long. This means take courses in the summer too not just fall, winter and/or spring. This will give you a full 4 semesters instead of just 2 or 3 semesters like some do. This will definitely speed up your trek to getting your bachelor’s degree.
Fifth Step: Enroll into Accelerated Programs
Search out those universities that have an accelerated program. These are specially designed to allow the student to move through to graduation much faster than standard programs. For people looking to get their bachelor’s degree quicker, this offers the advantage of not having to figure out how to fast track. All the planning is done for you, along with the counseling to help with achieving your goal.
Is this an easy way to attain your bachelor’s degree? No, in fact, it can be difficult, but with the correct amount of effort and a proper plan, it can be done. You should also remember that the sooner you find the right course and get started the sooner you will get your degree. Follow the 5 steps laid out here and you can definitely get to your goal of obtaining the quickest bachelor’s degree, finding a great job and building the successful career you have been dreaming of.
Why Online Degree Programs are a Great Option
Are you a career person limited by your current education and need to earn a higher degree to get promoted? Worried that you may not find a program that will fit your personal and financial needs? Well, no more worries are needed. Here are some excellent resources to help you get started in locating and financing the degree program you need to get ahead in life and at work.
Since the advent of the Internet, there are five times as many colleges and universities offering distance and virtual learning programs. This has made it easier and cheaper for working adults to find ways to complete their educations or seek advancement in their occupations. Many more career minded individuals than ever are taking online classes. There are many to choose from, ranging from skill-enhancing certificate programs to advanced degree programs up to doctorate level. These may overwhelm you at first, but they don’t have to if you know where to start.
Once you get serious about wanting to start a degree program online, you may want to check out resources found online where you can search for programs and other helpful information to get started. There are a multitude of programs to choose from, so take your time to learn all you can before you decide what will work best for you. Remember, each college has advisors there to help you with questions.
Fortunately for you, online education is generally less expensive than regular college because you are taking classes from the comfort of your home computer. Course instructors are more than likely teaching several subjects and they are also teaching from their home offices. This cuts down on having to fully staff a brick and mortar college or university. Savings are passed onto students this way.
Learning in the virtual classroom is enhanced by the interactive, low student to instructor ratio and the millions of resources found on the Internet. In just seconds, information can be shared and students respond in an online classroom, interactively and by sharing information. The classes are generally more flexible so that students can study and participate when they are at their peak learning ability.
As long as the college is accredited by an institute of higher learning, there are many resources available to help students pay their tuition. Students can take advantage of student loans, federal grants, or scholarships to fund their education.
By using the hints above, you will be on your way to getting that education you’ve always dreamed about, at a fraction of what you’d pay at a traditional college and in some cases a lot faster.