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.
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.
Online Christian Studies – Faith Filled Colleges
Here’s something to think about with regard to christian college online degree options. Tons of people wanting to find distance learning christian schools have no idea where to find them. To begin with, a faith-based university chooses to align itself with world view of both traditional and contemporary christian teachings. An online broad curriculum that is grounded in Jesus christ’s teach is the typical online learning christian Study Program. Degree programs available nearly always have AA, BA/BS and Master level degrees and the Online University level program is generally accredited by various agencies.
You can elect align yourself with knowledge and theoretical coursework grounded in Christ. People want want to understand the advantages of an online Christian University. This type of education is perfect for the learner that does not have the work schedule, travel time, or family situation for the ordinary campus studies. Enrollment online allows the students to study with stay-at-the home convenience while actively participating in university level education that is based on christian values. Online crist-centered learning makes it possible for new or continuing school pupils to go to class using modern technology.
Completion of the degree prepares the student to serve family and community with accredited arts and humanities courses and christian principles and beliefs. Many christian employers are searching for employees that have chosen to align a christ centered education with a professional career. Another question students ponder is how Is distance education different from a typical on campus college or school? Online Studies only require a computer and Internet connection for enrollment. Whereas traditional campus schedules require the pupil to attend class at a time convenient to teacher and institution, Online Studies offer the same subjects in a virtual classroom and a classroom schedule that is determined by the pupil. Virtual classrooms allow teacher and fellow pupils to actively engage in discussion as a group -within the comfort of one’s own home. The virtual University Program also offers individualized tutoring any hour of the day or night that is sent to the convenience of the student.
Many people want to understand what sort of job or profession they can have with christian University degrees. In Fact career careers and jobs in a very large range of choices are available to pupils. These include careers in law enforcemen,healthcare, education, psychology, high tech and computers and business. Hands-on studies in computer arts, medical billing, automotive technology and the cooking arts are additonal also available. Find out the benefits of distance education from christian universities] – it can definitely help you.
There are a few of ideal accredited online accredited – but you have to be knowledgeable about where to find them. First, many institutions in a similar are represented by organizations like the commission on colleges of the Southern Association of colleges and schools or the American Association of christian colleges and Seminaries.
A definition of a collegiate quality, purposefully christ-centered process that has chosen to align itself with an online process that is influenced by in christ-centered standards and an Arts and Sciences curriculum is the normal christian colleges and universities]. Accredited Online college degree studies offer Associate, Bachelor and Master
Degrees positioned with learning and theoretical development grounded in christ. Advantages and Benefits Virtual education is ideal for pupils whose employment schedules, schedule, or family situation make it too limiting to be involved in classical on-campus collegiate studies. Enrollment via Internet gives learners stay-at-the home convenience comfort while proactively participating in higher education that is based on christian ideals.
Online Degree christian studies make it convenient for new or continuing education attendees to go to school using modern technology. completion of the degree equips the graduate to assist family and community with accredited arts and sciences education and christian principles and values. Many christian enterprises are scouting for workers that have chosen to align a christ centered education with a specialized career. Difference between Online college and Traditional On-campus college Traditional campus plans require the attendee to go for class at a hour convenient for teacher and institution. Online Studies offer the same subjects in a virtual classroom and a classroom schedule that is convenient to the student. Virtual classrooms allow teacher, student, and fellow students to vigorously have a discussion as a group -within the comfort of student’s your home personal space and within a private christ-centered schooling environment. The online education college program also makes available one-to-one tutoring any hour of the day or night, at the convenience of the student. Students very often want to discover what kind of profession is at their feet when they study at the right college.
How To Choose Between Campus and Online Colleges
In order to decide between an online or traditional college education, a student must weigh the pros and cons.
The Pros and Cons of Online College Courses
There certainly are both advantages and disadvantages to taking courses at either an online or traditional college. In order to decide which type of college is best for you, it is important to evaluate the amount of time you have to dedicate to your education. Consider the specific field you would like to enter; there are some online programs that are more prestigious that traditional universities, and vice-versa.
The downside to a traditional college is that this type of school does not offer the student much flexibility when it comes to choosing courses and class schedules. For someone that works full-time or has a family, a traditional college makes it more difficult to receive a degree. Not all students are able to take a required course that starts at 8 a.m. or noon.
Depending upon the major and each college’s reputation, a degree from a traditional college may be held at a higher value in the workplace then an online degree. However, this will change as students attend online degree programs. In fact, the University of Phoenix has the largest number of enrolled students than any college in America.
The Pros and Cons of Traditional College Courses
A traditional college usually offers students a wider course and major selection. This is helpful for a student that is going into a specialized or particular field of study that provides hands-on experience. For example, if a student chooses a major that requires laboratory time, then a traditional college would be the best route to take.
An online college is great for a working student or a student that has family commitments. Many adults take online courses in order to advance in their careers and to increase their earning potential. However, when attending online classes, a student must set aside a certain amount of time each day. for lectures, coursework and studying.
The Pros and Cons of Traditional College Courses
Evaluate your needs to choose the best option for you
The downside to a traditional college is that this type of school does not offer the student much flexibility when it comes to choosing courses and class schedules. For someone that works full-time or has a family, a traditional college makes it more difficult to receive a degree. Not all students are able to take a required course that starts at 8 a.m. or noon.
The most important factor to remember is that no matter how you obtain your college degree, the degree is the most important part. A college degree offers many career opportunities, whether that degree is from a traditional or online school.
Getting the Most Out of College
If you are a college student, good grades should be your top priority. But, college is about much more than success in the classroom. Here are a few suggestions that can help all college students.
Although you should study hard enough to get good grades, that shouldn’t be your only focus on campus. In fact, being a total bookworm is not recommended, as you will not develop the appropriate social skills for a successful career if you are constantly isolated. You need a good balance of studying, health and social life in order to have total college success. You should still take some time to do sports or exercise. Like study habits, it’s best to develop good fitness habits now because it will be darn hard later in life. If you don’t believe me, just take a good look outside or in a shopping mall to see your average American physique.
If you want to keep having a healthy body for many years to come, you have to stay physically active. It doesn’t matter whether you exercise through sports on campus, outside clubs/leagues, with your friends or even on your own. Just be active. Find activities that you will enjoy. If you don’t know what you like, try different things out. You can play tennis, try team sports like basketball, workout at one of the campus gyms, snowboard, do martial arts or even dance. The options are endless on college campuses.
One of the benefits of living on campus is easy access to modern exercise and athletic facilities. Remember that diet is also important. Limit your junk food intake but be sure to get the calories you need to support an active lifestyle .
Make time for a social life. Social interaction will of course help develop good skills for your future career. Partying is okay, but if too much partying is affecting your grades, then you have to cut down. Go ahead and party if your grades are ok, but don’t let them sink.
And, don’t put your future at risk by violating drug, drinking, or other laws. Don’t make a stupid mistake that results in an arrest record which may haunt you forever.
If you have time, consider part-time work during the school year and be sure to work during the summers, in your related fields if possible. Besides making some of your own extra spending money, you will learn to deal with different people. You can only develop these people skills outside the classroom. Often a well-rounded B+ average individual with good people skills will achieve more than the A+ student lacking in social skills. Professional success will depend on a combination of intelligence and people skills, not intelligence alone.
Develop a culturally diverse circle of friends. Not only will it enrich your life, it will prepare you for success in our increasingly diverse workplaces.
Finally, sit in when good guest speakers are on campus. Guest speakers can expose you to useful or entertaining content that you do not get in your regular classes.
Study hard and keep your grades up. But, understand that there is more to college than academics alone. Don’t leave college without enjoying all of its benefits.
Explaining Student Loans
Choosing the right college loan(s) will help students finance their education and avoid a bad experience when repayment becomes due. Failure to understand the rules and the options, on the other hand, can lead to unpleasant surprises and serious financial difficulties.
Two kinds of loans are available to studentssubsidized and unsubsidized.
Subsidized student loans are limited to students who demonstrate financial need: students whose incomes are not sufficient to meet college costs. There is a fixed limit on the subsidized loan money students may borrow, but the government pays the interest on such loans while students are enrolled in college and during the first six months thereafter.
Unsubsidized loans are available to all students, regardless of financial need, and are available in far larger amounts. But, students, not the federal government, assume responsibility for the interest payments.
Generally, students who qualify for unsubsidized loans need the maximum they are allowed to borrow. If they require additional funds, unsubsidized loans are also available to them.
Students can apply for the Perkins Loan or the Stafford Loan. Repayment of both begins six months after a student has graduated, stopped out, or dropped out. When there is good reason, lenders will frequently extend this six month grace period, although they are not obligated to do.
There is also the PLUS loan, which can be taken out by parents. The PLUS loan offers a relatively low interest rate, but requires repayment to begin sixty days after the loan is awarded.
Student loans must be repaid. Even bankruptcy does cancel repayment obligation. Lenders will almost always work with folks having financial problems if they are making a genuine effort to repay their loans. However, those who attempt to avoid repayment face wage garnishment, the withholding of income tax refunds, and other serious penalties.
Because a college degree will increase your lifetime income by an average of nearly $1 million, it’s a great investment. But, you certainly want to shop for the best terms you can get and avoid the temptation to borrow more than is necessary.
Key Steps In Order To Finish College Fast
After high school many people dream of going to college for the next several years, meeting lots of life long friends and going to a lot of parties. That reality is not the case for everyone though. It costs money and takes time for that lifestyle and many people need to finish college fast to earn a degree and get out in the real world supporting them and their family.
A person who holds down a full time job and can not afford to quit working in order to go back to school is a good example. A person serving in the military is another example of someone who would not likely be able to go to college on a fulltime basis.
Whatever the reason for not being able to go to college fulltime to finish a degree there are other options to consider. So yes the traditional experience of going to college may not happen fully or at all, but at least it is possible to still complete a degree and get on with your professional working life as quick as possible.
Having some freedom or flexibility to earn a college degree via a distance based or online degree program is an option to consider.
To finish as fast as you can it may require additional steps as well. In case you are not aware there are tests that if you successfully pass them (and there are study guides) you may not be required to then complete certain college classes. Completing one or several of these tests could save you money and time.
The College Level Examination Program (a.k.a. CLEP) is accepted by some colleges allowing you to earn up to 12 credit hours for every exam passed. Check with the college you are looking into as not all colleges accept CLEP exams for credits. Some colleges also use the CLEP for admissions purposes.
A few CLEP exam examples include Analyzing and Interpreting Literature, College Algebra, College Mathematics, English Composition, and more.
Now you should be able to see that you may be able to earn a degree faster by using the CLEP exams to reduce the number of college courses you will need to take. You may also save time by using either an online college or distance learning program (assuming they accept CLEP). Do not rule out campus based programs also as many know offer a lot of flexibility as well.
Online Phd in Psychology – Resources
Many people reach the point in their careers when they are contemplating whether or not to return to college for more specialized training.
The online PhD program in psychology prepares students for practicing psychoanalytic counseling. Graduates will learn about self-analysis, theory, developmental process, dream analysis and much more.
Having a busy and pressured work may sometimes lead to frustration and depression that may encounter on today’s time. That is the reason why there is a much increased demand for psychologists and counselors in the field irrespective of which stage in life they are In US alone, the demand for psychologists is expected to increase considerably in the next five years. A person can met and join in the university to avail the course wanted and can help solve some certain problems.
To be a full-time psychologist, you need a graduate degree, either master’s or doctorate. PhD field may require you to have first a master’s degree before working on the organization you wanted. If you have a PhD, you can work as an independent consultant anywhere you like. They have much to contribute to research as well. If you are taking pyschology courses online, ensure that your institution providing the courses is accredited by the American Pyschological Association. (apa).
A doctorate in Psychology enables you to work as an independent consultant or within a health care framework. Nearly 40% of all psychologists currently practicing in the USA are self-employed. Professional salaries are usually $42,000 – $58,000. Once enrolled, one may opt to specialize in any of the various disciplines, like clinical counseling, educational, rehabilitation, or sport psychology etc. Sometimes in the internet may find the college of your choice that will suit your wants. Online doctoral degree programs in Psychology are a great investment in your future.