According to a report by the U.S. Department of Education in 2010, students in an online program, on average, performed reasonably better than those learning the same material through on-campus instruction. It also discovered that learning outcomes for students in face-to-face instruction lagged behind those involved in the online setting. Online learning has quickly addressed its shortcomings identified through research and student reviews. Online programs resources now include 24/7 technical support in the form of virtual tutors and reference librarians, along with other facilities such as career counseling, financial assistance etc.
The benefits of online education are numerous. A student can access course materials from the comfort of their homes and can work around their own schedule. Unlike the pressures of traditional, on-campus education, there are no unnecessary pressures to keep up with the rest of the class. Only online education provides freedom to a student to study at the time and place of their choice.
Online education provides easy access to programs' resources. A hybrid of traditional and online education is also offered where students can complete the theoretical components online and the modules requiring hands-on experience in a traditional classroom setting. That is why online universities are offering social science, humanities, science, and liberal arts classes. Since students will find programs from every subject therefore it is prudent to focus and know the most popular online programs. The following is a sample of some of the most popular online programs:
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Business Programs;
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Nursing Programs;
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Accounting and Finance Programs;
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Healthcare Programs;
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Education Programs.
These programs are offered at various levels. People can enroll themselves in diploma or certificate programs. Those willing to commit more time can pursue degree programs like associate's bachelor's, master's and even doctoral programs. They will be assisted through open access to university's learning resources and flexible schedules. Students can choose an institute that matches their finances, interests and goals. The credibility of universities is established through accreditation. The accrediting agency should be recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) or both. This will ensure that you are not cheated by a diploma mill.
Employers do not and cannot legally discriminate between those with a traditional degree and an online degree. Since they are as likely to get hired as their traditionally educated counterparts, therefore online graduates are in great demand in today's competitive world, especially in the fields mentioned above.