Many students choose to study for a degree remotely. Most homes have a computer in place and an internet connection, and that’s all you need! But is it the right choice for you?

In the article that follows we will be looking at the benefits of online study over on-campus programs, as well as the potential pitfalls. Let’s begin by talking about the different types of degrees that you can study online.

Types of Online Degrees

A high school graduate has many options in front of them when they emerge with a high school diploma. They may choose to find employment, or they can further their education. There three main options if they choose the latter, these being:

-        Associates degree which is usually a two-year course that can be followed at junior or community college level, and later ‘topped up’ with a further two years at university into a bachelor's degree.

-        Bachelor’s degree is generally a four-year course, which will major in one subject and give a general education in others such as English, mathematics, humanities, and more. This level of degree is necessary for many jobs.

-        Vocational degree differs from the above in that it concentrates almost entirely on the major subject. It also involves physical experience in a real-world setting.

Can the above be studied online? In the case of the associate's degree and the bachelor’s degree, yes, they can. As the vocational degree requires work experience it is possible to study for part of it online, but preferable to take a college course.

Pros and Cons of Online Study

Now we want to talk about the benefits and otherwise of online or campus-based study.

Here are some of the obvious benefits that come with the remote study option:

-        Study in your own time

-        Great for people with families or who have a job

-        No travel and associated expenses

-        No rent to pay

-        Access to online tutorials.

Those are just a few, but consider this: if you are studying at home there will be interruptions, and these can eat into your available time. You may find that family demands to slow down your studying, and concentration is not always easy to sustain.

Now think about the benefits of on-campus studies:

-        Dedicated classroom teaching

-        All the benefits of being in a university

-        Easy access to help and advice

-        Other students and social life.

Many students choose college or university for the experience, and that’s no surprise. However, the downside is that it is expensive. Unless you live close to a relevant institution you will need to relocate, and the cost of renting, heating, and powering student accommodation coupled with travel costs can be daunting.

There is financial help in the form of federal and state grants for both online and campus-based study, and we recommend you investigate these further before deciding which option to take. Enjoy your studies, and look forward to that dream job you have in mind.