Myths and Realities About Online School
Despite growing in size and popularity, many people still have misconceptions about distance learning. Take the time to clear up any false ideas you might hold about online education, before you decide if it’s right for you.
1. Myth: You can’t get financial aid for an online degree program.
Some people think that just because a degree program happens to be online, you won’t qualify for financial aid.
Reality: Aid is widely available for accredited online colleges.
Just like brick-and-mortar schools, in order to receive federal financial aid to attend online school, the school you choose has to be accredited by an agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education.
2. Myth: Online courses take less time.
Some people think that because a course in online, it’s somehow less rigorous or requires less homework or class participation.
Reality: Online courses are just as time-consuming as traditional ones.
Online classes aren’t abridged or somehow less exacting in standards than in-person classes, just because the learning platform is different. You can expect two to three hours of homework outside of class, for every credit hour you take. In fact, some people may find online college to be more difficult to manage, since it requires such a large amount of self motivation.
3. Myth: Online courses are only good for learning trades, like medical coding or court reporting.
Some people consider online learning to be somehow less prestigious than traditional degree programs.
Reality: Online learning is particularly suited for some advanced degrees.
While online education got its start in programs that are short and easily adapted to Web-based learning, it’s no longer just for certificate programs. In fact, online master’s degree are some of the best degrees to earn online; they are geared toward professionals, only take a few years to earn, and allow you to continue working while you advance your skills.
4. Myth: These days, you can find an online program for any degree you want.
Do a cursory Google search, and you might believe you can earn any degree, from a certificate in medical coding to a Ph.D. in business, through online learning.
Reality: While online programs are expanding, not every degree is available online.
You should be wary of online programs that your common sense tells you should require some hands-on training. Bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering or chemistry, for example, would be very hard to earn completely online; extensive lab work is required for both sorts of degree. Make sure to check for the appropriate accreditation or in-person requirements if an online degree sounds dubious to you; while someone might try to sell you a bachelor’s in mechanical engineering through completely online course work, that doesn’t mean that the piece of paper you earn will be highly regarded by employers.