ALT-1 Reasons for Studying through an Online University
There are a multitude of reasons for studying through a reputable and accredited online university. They offer a rich source of high-quality and valuable content enabling anyone interested in obtaining a higher education, the opportunity to do so. This is done in an often simpler and more affordable fashion than before. Even old-school on campus universities are expanding into the online environment, recognizing its expansive opportunities.
Here are just a few reasons to consider the online route to obtaining a quality tertiary (higher) education for either yourself or someone close to you:-
Availability
There are a rapidly increasing number of online universities offering a vast number of higher-learning course content. Many ivy-league universities are going online too. The options available are greater than ever before. You can study an MBA through to a clinical psychologist. The really great ones offer real-world training opportunities anywhere in the world enabling you to easily complete the practical aspect of your training in a truly versatile manner – anywhere in the world.
Accessibility
Online universities are relatively easily to access. In essence all you need is access to a computer and the means to enroll. No need to commute to an out of the way university, live in student accommodation or even move to another country. Online universities make ‘attendance’ super accessible in terms .of acquiring the course work, submitting assignments and many even have physical examination spots in most cities around the world. This allows you to work full-time anywhere in the world and study part or full-time as well wherever you are, as you have access to your coursework, lecturers, tutors and examination spots.
Usability
The reputable online universities are very user-friendly. Generally, they have websites with an engaging interface, allowing the student to interact with lecturers, tutors and other students in online tutorials. The platforms for submitting assignments are simple to use and makes like really easy for the student.
Affordability
This is one of the greatest attractions of online universities, the affordability factor. For the first time in all the ages, a real higher education is available to almost anyone. Online universities are far more cost effective than their on-campus relatives. It is cheaper for many reasons. Online universities may have a physical headquarters but it is not as huge and expansive as on-campus universities. The online universities themselves save costs on utilities, maintenance, rates and rent therefore enabling them to pass on the savings to the student. You can now obtain a real bachelors, honors, masters or even doctorate degree and have money over to eat! (smile)
Flexibility
With some for-thought you can easily juggle full-time work, travel, family and all the rest that life has to offer and obtain your degree at the same time. The changing face of higher education allows you to follow and obtain more of your goals at the same time. You can interact with the university in your time, not theirs. The ball is truly in your court!
Up-skilling
In this new economy, the only way to stand out within your career is to be and have more to offer than your counter-parts. The way to get and keep a job or even create one is to gain more skills. This is vital to your success, even if it is learning another language or doing a short course, up-skilling is here to stay – the competition is far too fierce. The ability to gain new skills has never been more in anyone’s reach, thanks to the internet.
Marketability
Online universities allow you to market your new skills, opening new doors that may allow you to gain access to a whole new career. In this aspect, you are only limited by your own imagination.
Global Networking Opportunities
Online universities have students from all over the world, allowing you to easily connect and meet influential people at the peak of their career. This alongside social media allows you to network with more people who share your values and ideals opening up all kinds of opportunities for you.
Adaptability
Being able to obtain a degree while vacationing in Thailand, or working fulltime or raising a family…or all the above at the same time is the ultimate in adaptation. If you are someone who can adapt to different cultures, time-zones, ways of living while studying at the same time – online universities are for you. Where else can you go to class in your pajamas or without them?
Time
Your time is truly yours when studying through an online university. You have the choice of when to do your assignments or check in for online webinars. There are deadlines and scheduled tutorials but you can watch a webinar in the early hours of the morning when you can’t sleep…and sleep in. No worries about missing a class!
Online education allows you to fulfill your dreams and goals in a very real, affordable and versatile way. However, you must be able to exercise great discipline in order to really succeed in studying this way. You are accountable only to yourself. If you are motivated, disciplined and interested – not even the sky will be the limit!
