Benefits of an Online Education

By: Rebecca Grissom & Jake Hreha

Furthering your education with a college degree is an excellent opportunity for any lifelong learner and curious mind. However, in today's day and age, a four-year, on-campus experience is not the only way to obtain a college degree. College can look different for everyone, and receiving a degree online is an excellent option for students looking for a flexible and rewarding education. Online learning benefits you in many ways. Listed below are some of the top reasons why seeking an online degree might be the best option for you:

Maintain Career and Family Responsibilities While Taking Online Courses

The online learning environment allows you to take classes while staying committed to responsibilities at home and at work. It's hard to step away from your job and/or family to commit to a weekly class or commute to campus. With a distance learning degree, you have the flexibility of completing your weekly coursework from the comfort of your home. An online program lets you arrange your coursework around working and maintaining social responsibilities.

Pay Affordable Tuition Costs for Online Classes 

Another great advantage of distance learning is the price. Online degree options are often more affordable than traditional on-campus degrees because the costs of living, activities, and resources that come with an on-campus education do not have to be included in the price of an online education. Additionally, most colleges with online programs offer an array of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctorate degrees, giving online students seeking higher education an incredible opportunity to continue their postsecondary learning online. Some online programs even offer a wider range of degree programs than their campus-based equivalents.

Work at Your Own Pace with Online Learning

Learning outside of a traditional classroom gives students the flexibility to work at their own pace. Lectures are often recorded ahead of time so students can watch when it’s most convenient and complete the coursework at their own pace. This also helps students learning online develop their time management skills. Because scheduling needs are different for each student, online programs often allow students to finish a degree within a flexible timeline – whether that’s two, four, or even six years. There are options for accelerated learning paths in the online environment to finish a degree as quickly possible, or there are extended tracks for students who are still working full-time or focusing on other goals.

Enjoy the Benefits of Online Learning

Students who take online courses enjoy many benefits that were not available to earlier generations. The opportunity to take an online course or an entire online degree program gives students the ability to also pursue other priorities in their lives. Online learning programs offer students the ability to make a schedule that blends personal and professional life in a way that meets their needs. Online learners also have the ability to interact with course materials in new and exciting ways through the advancement of online learning platforms. For example a student taking an online class can develop the technical skills they need to perform a job on their own schedule. Online degrees do not mean a student is isolated. Students learning in an online format can connect with other students through online discussions or a virtual classroom. The opportunities for online learning are endless.

Because the opportunities within online education are so broad, any student can discover the right learning path. With increased flexibility and affordability – and the chance to work at your own pace – an online degree can help you achieve your goals. Visit our Programs page today to discover the perfect path for your college dreams and take the next step towards your future.

Rebecca Grissom

Copywriting and Marketing Assistant, IWU-National and Global

Rebecca Grissom is currently a junior at Indiana Wesleyan University pursuing degrees in Strategic Communications and Humanities. She is passionate about good books, good coffee, and telling stories. When she's not working, Rebecca enjoys time spent with her dogs, nature, and friends.

Jake Hreha

SEO Copywriter, IWU

Jake Hreha is a graduate of Ball State University, where he majored in advertising with a concentration in media presentation and design. He is passionate about design, and in his free time he enjoys cycling, traveling, and reading.