College Students

[NoddaProbBob]

Hi all,
I was curious for you college students, or anyone really, what your opinions were about seeking a degree online. So far, I have an Associate's Degree which I obtained through traditional (in the classroom) learning. I'm looking to move on to a Bachelor's and beyond, but sticking with a traditional school would require a move which just isn't in the cards for me right now. Just from a little bit of research, I've narrowed down a consensus of online schools: University of Phoenix, Kaplan University, and Liberty University.
Many seem to be conflicted on whether or not degrees from online schools are credible, and yet, it seems as if employers are not all completely turned off by potential employees that have degrees from online schools.
So what do you think? Attempt to find a traditional school? Or see what online schools can offer me?

 

[explodingboy]

I wouldn't even try for myself personally.

I have a terrible track record for any work that is to be done out of class. In fact I got all the way through Maths without ever turning in a single homework assignment on the occasions that I even did them.

Several of my Sociology classes to I passed entirely on class work and test scores and the only reason I didn't get more A's was due to not handing in the papers or out of class work.

Schooling the traditional way isn't easy, and from what I see the online classes require even more self discipline to achieve.

 

[NoddaProbBob]

Thanks for your input!
I've taken about 3 or so online classes for my Associates degree through the same place as my traditional classes and did quite well.
I'm used to being a traditional student and it will feel weird to do everything solely online (if that's what I choose), but I know I could do it.

 

[firesoforion]

I really don't know much about online universities. I'd guess whether it mattered or not would depend on what you wanted to do with the degree, but many traditional universities also offer remote and online courses through things like the continuing education department that you can take for credit, then you'd have less you had to do in a traditional degree.

 

[unansweredprayers]

I just started at American Public University fora B.A. and so far I LOVE it! I would say if you're good at being self disciplined and finding time to do your work online, go for it!!! It's very easy to register and get everything started. It's also combined with AMU(American Military University) where everyone in the military goes while overseas and whatnot. So I would say it is very well looked upon by potential employers. The credentials are good, so I don't see why not. This school seriously had the absolute friendliest and most helpful/efficient staff I talked to when I was looking for an all-online school. The teachers are great, and very personable for being over the internet, I was surprised. However, I can't speak for any of the other schools from experience, just make sure you feel good about whatever you choose! Best of luck

 

[NiobiumTragedy]

Just whatever you do, make sure the school you're taking online classes at is credible as you said. There are a lot of schools out there that are mainly online that are laughable to employers.

I would hit up schools that are well known and see what online courses they offer in your field. More and more well known and respected schools are offering online courses because it's the new trend and saves money. Even your high end schools are doing this now.

 

[hedrick]

The schools you mentioned are all commercial online places. I'd suggest that you consider a normal university that has a fully online program. Penn State or some place like that.

 

[ModestGirlsRock]

University of Phoenix is credible. I know many people who have gotten their master degrees there, two people who work in admissions, and a professor.

 

[Mayflower1]

I am looking into this also. As a music major I can only take so many classes online, but I heard that getting your basics done online then taking traditional classes for your major is very beneficial and is helpful financially.

 

[NiobiumTragedy]

I am looking into this also. As a music major I can only take so many classes online, but I heard that getting your basics done online then taking traditional classes for your major is very beneficial and is helpful financially.

Berkley just expanded their online courses this year, actually.

 

[Mayflower1]

Berkley just expanded their online courses this year, actually.

Haha. Point taken. Some colleges at least. You don't have to pay to live on campus. Though I guess living off campus would be almost as much.