If you’re a busy working adult who is thinking about starting – or finally finishing – your college degree, there’s a lot to consider.
For example, you may need the flexibility of an online degree program to achieve your goal.
Saint Leo University has developed a variety of resources to give you the information you need about online learning.
If you’re just looking for the big picture when it comes to the most important benefits – and the demands – of online learning, take a look at our ABCs of Online Learning. It's a lighter look at what to expect.
Advisor: Your most important resource for being a successful online student is your advisor.
Basic Computer Skills: You don’t need to be a technology expert – just comfortable navigating online.
Credit by exam: A way of accelerating your degree by taking an exam in place of the actual course.
Deadlines: Online programs are not self-paced. Courses include assignments with weekly deadlines.
Easy: One myth about online learning is that it’s easy. Online programs are intense and rigorous.
Flexibility: Online courses fit the busy schedules and lifestyles of working adults.
Grades: Grades for online courses are not identified any differently on transcripts than campus-based courses.
Help Desk: 24-7 technical support for online students in navigating the online learning environment.
Instructors: Online faculty should understand the busy lifestyles of adult learners and be easily accessible to students.
Join: Join online clubs and associations! Participation enhances your learning and looks great on your resume.
Knowledge: Online faculty with real-world experience provide adult learners with knowledge relevant to career goals.
Login: Online students must log in in to their courses on a regular basis.
Motivation: Without the structure of a traditional classroom, online students must be self-motivated to stay on top of assignments.
Network: Collaborating on group projects, participating in webinars and joining clubs give online students networking opportunities.
Organized: Organization is imperative for success. It enables you to complete assignments on time and lowers stress when you are exceptionally busy.
Perseverance: Learning is hard. Finding time for assignments can be stressful. Being a successful online student requires perseverance.
Quackery: Don’t fall for a diploma mill. Invest your time and money in an online program offered through an accredited institution.
Regional accreditation: Accreditation means the school has undergone extensive review and meets expectations for quality and effectiveness. Regional is considered the gold standard of accreditation.
Syllabus: A document with all the information students need for each course: assignments, deadlines, topics, and more. A great tool for success.
Time management: A critical skill for online students. Squeezing an online program into your free time doesn’t suffice. It’s a major commitment.
Understanding: You should expect faculty and staff to understand your needs as a busy adult and to work with you to overcome challenges.
Value: Research shows Americans value a college education more than ever. College grads earn significantly more over their lifetimes and may even live longer.
Writing: Nearly all communication occurs through writing in online courses, so strong writing and reading skills are essential.
X-ray: Look inside yourself and determine why you are considering an online program. Set clear goals to increase your chances of success.
You: Online courses are not for everyone. Make sure you find the program that is the right fit for you.
Zen: The simplicity and peace you will achieve when you complete your online degree program!