Things to consider when choosing between online and campus-based colleges
June 13, 2011
If you've decided that you're ready to go back to school to better your career, there are a few different options that you'll want to understand before jumping into anything.
Flexible Hours
If you're busy taking care of your children or working a full-time job, online courses may work best for you. Attending college virtually gives you the flexibility to study and do homework at your leisure, when you can get a break between work and time with your family. Going to a campus-based college means you'll be responsible for showing up for classes and tests, even when it might not be convenient for you. With many colleges, if you miss more than a handful of lessons, your grade could be affected.
Social Interaction
One of the best things about attending college is the social interaction with your teachers and classmates. If you live for raising your hand and partaking in in-depth discussions, then a campus-based college may work for you. However, with advances in technology, online colleges have also become much more interactive. Now you can email, chat with classmates and even help each other with homework and studying, just like you might at a campus-based institution.
Age
Going to college with a bunch of teens may not be your cup of tea if you're a bit older than the general population of campus-based colleges. Online classes are a great option in this case, as those taking the courses are typically a bit older and are in the class because they genuinely want to better their situations. On a campus-based college, not everyone is so focused on academia.
Cost
The cost of going to college continues to rise every year. The high price of a college education can affect your decision - especially if you're going back to school later in life, since older students have to worry about bills, kids, employment and gas money in addition to tuition. For those with more on their plates, online courses may feel more doable - you can take as many or as few as you like, and you may even qualify for a scholarship from the online school of your choice. Single mother scholarships are also available through the government and privately funded groups.
Whichever venue you choose for college, make sure to look into these types of aid to better your chances of success in a career you've always wanted.
