Earning a college degree is often a necessary part of getting a decent paying job and learning important skills. People want to attend college, but they may not have the time, especially if they need to earn a living to help pay for tuition costs. Online classes and degrees have emerged as a viable option for many people as the internet has become more widely used and accessible. If you are thinking of enrolling in an online college, you may have encountered certain myths that could seem discouraging. Let’s debunk a few.
"Online degrees are easier to earn."
People think that earning an online college degree is easier than earning from in a traditional brick and mortar setting. This is not true. Online degrees take just as much effort to earn. The material used is the same. The textbooks used are the same. The tests are the same. The aim is to help the student master the material and gain an education, no matter the course.
"Online degrees are not widely accepted."
Some people believe that a college degree earned online via an online school will not be as widely accepted as one that is earned in a traditional setting. As is true of all degrees, this depends on the kind of college where the degree was earned. Some colleges are more prestigious than others. If you are planning to attend graduate school, do not let the mere fact that the degreecame from an online school be a major factor in your college planning decisions. Instead, focus on the school's overall reputation.
"You won't spend any time in a physical classroom."
This depends on the kind of degree that you are planning to get. Some college degrees can be obtained entirely online; other programs will require completion of an internship that must be completed in person. For example, if you are aiming for a degree in nursing, you will need to complete onsite clinical training at a hospital or other health care facility.
"Online programs only offer certain majors."
Any college degree that can be earned in a brick and mortar setting can also be earned online or by a combination of online classes and in-person internships. Many colleges now offer both types of degrees, allowing students the maximum flexibility possible when completing their degree.
For anyone considering higher education, it's important to do as much research as possible. You may wish to opt for a brick and mortar institution that offers some online classes. You may want to attend an entirely online program. Do your homework and find out which program works best for your needs.
