Changing Trends Lead to Popularity of Online Education

by Karen Lawson
Online Degrees Columnist

A 2005 research report states that enrollment in college distance learning courses increased from 1.98 million in 2003 to 2.35 million in 2004--and it's still growing. Why are so many Americans choosing to earn all or part of their college degrees online? Hectic schedules and time crunches may be part of the reason, but changes in social and work trends also contribute to career changes, and prompt many people to turn to online education.

Layoffs, Downsizing, and Displacement: A Springboard for Distance Learning

Most Americans no longer retire from the same company they originally went to work for; mobility among different companies can help workers advance faster. Downsizing, rightsizing, voluntary severance packages, and early retirement also add up displaced workers who want to return to work, whether in the same career or a new profession. Women who put their careers on hold for children are returning in greater numbers. In an effort to restructure or recover their professional lives, more people are turning to distance education.

Quality Education Programs Available Online

If you want to take online college courses, but are concerned about the quality of distance education, don't worry. A 2005 survey found that 63% of academic institutions offering traditional undergraduate degrees also offer distance learning. In addition, 65% of institutions report using primarily core faculty to teach online, compared with 62% of core faculty assigned to teach classroom courses (which means fewer grad students leading your classes). If you want to enhance your career potential, or train for an entirely new profession, online education programs offer everything from individual courses to graduate degree and certification programs. Make sure the online education program you choose is properly accredited and offers academic and technical support, and then get started on your first online college course!

About the Author
Karen Lawson spent more than twenty years in the business world before returning to college. She used student financial aid programs while earning her MA degree in English at the University of Nevada, Reno.

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