+ Q: How will I know how I’m doing in an online course?

A: You’ll receive feedback by way of grades and comments on exams, papers and group projects. In addition, universities may offer ‘live’ office hours during which students can interact with instructors via live chat and/or email.
 
            + Q: How do I know if an online degree is right for me?
A: This is an important question. And, we’ve identified the key attributes of successful online learners.
First, it’s essential to be an experienced user of computers, the Internet, real-time Internet chat, eMail, computer-based CD-Roms, and word processing software—and have access to a computer and modem.

Next, online learners need to be self-motivated, and good at written communication.

Lastly, the student must be willing to commit 10 to 15 hours per week to studying, and believe that high quality learning can take place without going to a traditional classroom.
If this sounds like you, you’re probably a good candidate!
 
           + Q: How do students interact with each other and professors in an
            online class?
Some courses require students to login at specific times for a lecture. Outside of class, students interact on group projects through email, message boards, chat rooms and conferencing. They can chat regularly with professors during designated office hours or converse via email.
 
            + Q: How are courses scheduled? How do students make-up a missed
            class?
A: Some universities may schedule Instructor-led, live classes more than once a week. If you miss a class, it may be archived so you have the ability to view it later in the week—at your own pace—when it’s convenient.
 
            + Q: Can I take the class from any computer or location?
A: Yes, as long as the computer you’re using meets the minimum system requirements for the class. You can also work from any location with Internet access. In some cases, you will receive an assigned password and username to access your classes from any location.
 
             + Q: Will my online degree be worth as much in the marketplace as
              a traditional degree?
A: Yes, as long as the degree is earned at an accredited institution of higher learning. Accreditation is much like a validation process. Institutions are evaluated against established standards, at regular intervals, to insure the highest level of educational quality.

Additionally, some accredited online Universities with a brick and mortar presence do not include the word, ‘online’ on their diplomas.
 
             + Q: What is Accreditation?
A: Accreditation is the primary way in which institutions of higher learning assure quality. That’s why getting a degree from an accredited school is so important to job seekers and employers. There are national and regional accrediting agencies in the U.S. Most are recognized by CHEA, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Secretary of Education.

CHEA maintains a list of all currently recognized accreditation agencies, as well as agencies that are not recognized. If you want to be sure that an accrediting body is recognized, or prove it to a prospective employer, check with CHEA.

Also, be aware that institutions that offer only professional training or continuing education are not eligible to seek accreditation.
 
             + Q: Are financial aid and scholarships available to online students?
A: Yes. In fact, 60% to 70% of all students receive some sort of financial aid. Accreditation is an important factor here too. Federal and State governments only award grants and loans to students at accredited institutions.

Online students cannot receive Federal financial aid if they are:
  1. Enrolled at school less than half time.
  2. Attending less than 30 weeks of instruction in any given academic year
  3. An International student that is not an eligible non-citizen (for more information, review the ‘Financial Aid for International Students’ section.)
             + Q: How do I choose the right school for me?
A: Verify the school’s accreditation.

Study the school’s history. Does it have a brick and mortar presence? How long has it been around?

Find out what type of learning environment the school offers: Are courses text-based or interactive? Does the University offer a multi-media format? Ask to sample a live course.

Talk to students who have earned their degrees in your program of interest. If you know any professionals in your field of choice, by all means, ask them about the educational background of those entering the field.