Getting Started On Your Online Degree

You’ve decided to earn your bachelor’s degree online, but where do you start? Providing transcripts of any previous college work and planning your course schedule are important aspects of academic success. Here’s how to get started.

Understanding Online Degree Requirements
Whether you’ve been to college or not, you’ll want to understand degree, subject, and course credit requirements. This will help you plan which courses to take and when to take them. It will also assist you in getting previously completed college courses credited toward your online degree program. A bachelor’s degree typically requires approximately 120 credits, including approximately 60 credits of core requirements. Core requirements are general education courses usually required of most majors.

It’s All in the Details: Navigating Admissions and Records
In order to get an online degree, you’ll need to submit official transcripts of all college work you’ve previously completed. The key word is “official.” This means that your transcripts must be sent directly from your previous college to your online degree institution. It can take several weeks to get official transcripts, so it’s best to know the admission requirements and deadlines for your online program ahead of time.

Academic Advisement: Plotting the Course to Your Online Degree
Once your online degree institution reviews your transcripts, they may admit you to the program of your choice, or indicate that you have not met the prerequisites for the courses you want to study. Prerequisites refer to courses that must be completed before you can enroll in either an entire program or a particular class.

Academic advisors can assist you in determining which courses you need and which courses you want, and will help you strike a balance between demanding or intensive courses and electives. Learning is supposed to be challenging and enjoyable. Take courses at a pace that suits you, and you’ll have your bachelor’s degree sooner than you think.

Online Education Provides Advantages And Convenience

You want to advance in your career, or maybe it’s been a while since you were in college, and you’re thinking about taking a class or two. Online education provides a great variety of accredited courses, and you can study when and where it’s convenient. Many course formats are designed to accommodate today’s busy work schedules and lifestyles. Choose from individual courses or a complete online degree program, and enhance your life with online education.

Accounting to Zoology: Online Education Offers Something for Everyone
Thanks to the Internet and innovative educational technology, you can earn anything from a high school diploma to a doctoral degree online. If you’re not interested in a formal degree program, you can also take courses for personal enjoyment and enrichment. You can find a huge variety of online education opportunities, both on the Internet and locally.

Ready to get started? Here are some tips to help you succeed in online learning.

Finding and Starting Your Online Education Program
You’ll need access to the Internet and will want to be comfortable with basic computer skills in order to enjoy your online learning experience. It’s also a good idea to take your first online course by itself so you can become accustomed to online learning at a pace that works best for you. As you become familiar with online courses, you can add more courses.

Most online courses include access to technical support. The tech support folks can assist you in getting started and can help you determine what kind of equipment you’ll need to best support your online learning program.

There are many different formats for online education. You’ll want to check out several offerings for the course you want before enrolling. Some online courses provide chat sessions between professors and students, or may schedule specific times for an online class. Once you get started with online education, you may want to earn a certificate or college degree. It’s possible to meet many educational and career objectives through online learning.

How To Choose An Accredited Distance Learning Program

When getting ready to earn your degree online, it’s important to be sure that the degree program you select is properly accredited. Accreditation means that the institution offering your degree meets academic and professional standards for the degree programs it offers. Employers generally seek candidates holding degrees from accredited institutions. How do you know if your school is properly accredited?

What is Accreditation, and Who Does It?
In the United States, there are six regional agencies that accredit the majority of post-secondary educational institutions. Institutions accredited by these agencies are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as eligible for federal financial aid programs. The regional accrediting agencies are:

  • New England Association of Schools and Colleges
  • North Central Association of Colleges and Schools
  • Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools
  • Northwestern Association of Colleges and Schools
  • Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
  • Western Association of Colleges and Schools

Some distance learning institutions may be accredited by other agencies. It’s important to check with the US Department of Education website to make sure these accrediting agencies are recognized.

Beware of Online Degree and Accreditation Scams
If you spend your money on an online degree program from a college or school that is not properly accredited, you can suffer consequences, such as:

  • Failure to qualify for professional licensure
  • Possible loss of employment due to lack of educational qualifications
  • Failure to meet transfer requirements for graduate school programs

Do your homework before registering for an online degree. By verifying that your distance learning program is legitimately accredited, you can save yourself a lot of trouble and money later on.

Source
U.S. Department of Education

Distance Learning: Getting Started With An Online Degree Program

You’ve been thinking about earning your college degree. Or maybe you’re only a few courses away from getting your high school diploma. The Internet has made distance learning accessible and flexible. Here’s how to get started.

Tips for Choosing an Online Degree Program
Here are some important tips for getting started with distance learning online.

  • Verify accreditation
  • Transfer credits you’ve earned
  • Consult an academic advisor
  • Communicate with instructors, academic and technical support advisors

Let’s look at each of these tips in a bit more detail, as each of them is essential to your success in distance learning online.

Make Sure Your School is Properly Accredited
You’ve seen online ads offering a college degree overnight, and promising prestige and success. Don’t buy it! The only way to get a legitimate online degree is to take courses offered by an accredited institution. You can verify accreditation at the U.S. Department of Education website.

Transfer Credits from Other Institutions
You may be asked to submit official transcripts from your high school and any colleges you’ve attended. These are used to determine which courses you will need in order to complete your online degree. Distance learning programs will generally apply some credits earned from other institutions toward your online degree.

Consult an Academic Advisor
If you’re pursuing an online degree, you’ll want to set up an appointment for advisement, especially if you are transferring credits to be used toward your degree. Academic advisors can help you determine which courses to take in order to complete your degree, and can help you plan a course schedule that meets your needs.

Communication is Important
One drawback of distance learning is that you can feel isolated. Make use of chat sessions and online bulletin boards, and e-mail your instructor with questions and concerns. Finally, if you encounter technical problems with your distance learning program, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Distance learning programs offer a great way for busy adults to earn an online degree or diploma.

Earning Your High School Diploma Online

As more and more employers at all levels require formal education for their job applicants, it’s become crucial for adults to complete high school. Meanwhile, school violence and socially alienated students have caused many parents to seek alternative modes of education for their children. Today, many high school courses or entire diploma programs can be completed online.

Getting Started on a High School Diploma Program
Online schools vary in their course offerings, programs, and culture. It’s important to select a program that matches your academic needs and career goals. Your children may be able to take a course or two to supplement their traditional high school program, or you may be a working adult who wants to earn a high school diploma by taking courses online. It’s also possible to earn an entire high school diploma online, but before enrolling in this type of program, you might want to try a course or two online to make sure distance learning works for you.

Online Schools: Your Responsibilities
In today’s competitive work world, a high school diploma is often the minimum requirement for employment. You may be asked to provide high school transcripts when applying for jobs. You’ll want to choose an online school program that is properly accredited, and whose diploma will be accepted by employers, colleges, and universities. Here are some tips for success in earning your high school diploma online:

  • If you’re transferring from a traditional high school, work with your school’s counselor to ensure a smooth transition, and that no required credits will “slip through the cracks.”
  • Consider your reasons for wanting to study online, and your study habits. Do you have the discipline to complete assignments online? Will you meet “e-attendance” requirements? Accredited online high school programs have similar course content to traditional high schools, so don’t think there will be less homework to do.
  • Work with your teachers and counselors. They want you to succeed, and can help you choose and schedule courses to meet your needs.

Whether you need one course or several to complete your high school diploma online, there are a variety of online schools to choose from. Do your homework and find one that works for you.

15 Best Big Cities For New Grads

Big-cities

Graduating from college and preparing to make your mark on the world is one big feat. There are so many questions that pop up at this time of life, including where to live, how to land your dream job and what to do with your spare time.

It may be that big city life is for you. You may be the type of person who likes urban commutes, museums, the arts, the theater, ball games and more. If you are still deciding what place might be best, OnlineDegrees.com has made a list of the best big cities for college graduates in the U.S. Average median rent, the number of arts and entertainment centers and median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders were just some of the factors used to compile this list. This year, two new metrics were used to provide more perspective, including commute time to work and the crime rate per 100,000.

List of 15 Best Big Cities for New Grads

For this particular list we examined cities that had a population of more than 750,000 and used a nine-factor 10-point scale to rank the top 15 locations. Some of these cities, like Austin, Texas and Columbus, Ohio return to our list for another year, but others — like New York City — are new. Keep on reading to find out which big city might be right for a new college graduate just like you.

Southern New Hampshire University

  • Some of the nation’s most affordable tuition rates, from a private, nonprofit, NEASC accredited university
  • Qualified students with 2.5 GPA and up may receive up to $20K in grants & scholarships
  • Multiple term start dates throughout the year. 24/7 online classroom access
  • Offering over 200 online degree programs

1. Austin, Texas

Austin-Texas

Austin returns to our list of one of the top big cities for new graduates, moving up to the #1 spot from #2 last year. Several factors pushed it up to the top of the list, including low unemployment, an average commute time of less than 25 minutes and average median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders that are close to $60,000.

New college grads may be drawn by some of the city’s major employers, which include Apple, Inc., Cirrus Logic, Cisco Systems, Dell, Inc., Intel, 3M and Texas State University. Entertainment is an attraction, too, and includes the city’s Sixth Street, which is home to a hip music scene along with restaurants, shops and bars, including a dueling piano bar. Graduates with a bend toward history may enjoy visiting the state capitol, which opened in 1888 and offers free 30-minute tours. Young adults who want to settle close to this city of 950,000, can find lovely suburban communities in Rollingwood, Shady Hollow and West Lake Hills.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 30.1%
  • Median rent, 2017: $1,217.64
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $59,301.93
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 16.6%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 304
  • Average commute time to work: 24.9 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 8,296

2. San Francisco, California

San-Francisco

New to our list this year of best big cities for new grads, San Francisco scored a spot for being #1 of all the cities on our list for entertainment. This may come as no surprise, as entertainment in San Francisco includes diverse options like the theater, Giants baseball, the ballet, opera, 49ers football and countless activities that range from biking tours of the Golden Gate Bridge to food tours in the Chinatown district.

There are economic factors making this city of 884,000-plus attractive, too. For example, San Francisco ranks second on our list for a low unemployment rate of 3.8% and a high state projected employment. New grads might look for employment with some of the city’s largest employers, which include Wells Fargo, Kaiser Permanante, Uber and Salesforce. Of course, there are plenty of start-ups in this innovative city, too, including HotelTonight, reinventing hotel booking, and Cloud Passage, a cloud-based security company.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 29%
  • Median rent, 2017: $1,252.35
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $57,437.29
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 10.7%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 516
  • Average commute time to work: 33.8 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 13,861

3. Houston, Texas

Houston-Texas

Home to the largest medical center in the world, Houston, Texas could be a great city for new grads looking for fast-growing jobs. The Texas Medical Center contains more than 50 different medicine-related institutions, but that’s not the reason this city of 2.3 million (yes, 2.3 million!) returns to our list of best big cities for new grads for another year. Houston ranked second of all cities overall for median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders (above $61,000) and sixth for the number of entertainment venues.

New residents may want to start their entertainment explorations in Houston’s downtown tunnels, a network of air-conditioned walkways that provide a way for downtown workers to quickly get about. Restaurants like Cafe Basil, Fuddruckers and Salata can be found there. Entertainment in Houston stretches far beyond what’s underground to include kite festivals, children’s festivals (if you already have kids!), music, magic, state fairs and more.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 25.7%
  • Median rent, 2017: $943.53
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $61,806.02
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 16.6%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 269
  • Average commute time to work: 27.8 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 10,757

4. San Antonio, Texas

San-Antonio

The San Antonio River Walkway may be one reason that new grads want to make this city of 1.5 million people their home. However, this city returns to our list of best big cities for new grads for a plethora of other reasons. San Antonio ranks third on our list for average lowest commute time (Interstates like 10, 35, 37 and 410 may help!) and also took the 5th spot for lowest median rent.

Compare this rent to other large cities on this list (like San Francisco and Austin, Texas) and it’s easy to see the potential savings that could go into your pocket. Additionally, the percent of renters in this city also is among the lowest on our list, at 45.2 percent, suggesting that people may like to lay down roots here. Why not, when the cost of a median home is lower than other large cities and the attractions are endless and include the likes of the Alamo, Natural Bridge caverns, golfing caving, and, of course, that beautiful river walk?

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 24%
  • Median rent, 2017: $860.54
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $56,100.02
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 16.6%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 234
  • Average commute time to work: 24.6 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 11,251

5. Columbus, Ohio

Columbus-Ohio

The capital city of Ohio boasts a number of highlights that help it again return to our list of the best big cities for new grads. With a population of more than 880,000 and the lowest commute time of all cities on this list (21.6 minutes!), it has major employers that include JPMorgan Chase & Co (employing more than 20,000 people), Nationwide, Honda of America Manufacturing and Amazon.

Columbus also has a low median rent, the third lowest of cities on this list, and ranks fairly low among cities on this list for unemployment rate, too. Of course, Columbus has plenty of other interests to pull in new grads, too, whether that’s the Ohio Girls Roller Derby Team (which ranks among the top 10 in the nation), the large horse show hosted there every October or the opportunity to enjoy a craft brew at one of its many distilleries.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 29%
  • Median rent, 2017: $812.93
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $53,970.89
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 4.4%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 244
  • Average commute time to work: 21.6 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 9,008

6. Dallas, Texas

Dallas texas

New to our list of best big cities for new grads, Dallas has a population of more than 1.34 million and the highest ranking for median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders. This modern city in northern Texas is home not just to the Dallas Arts District, which features nearly 20 blocks of galleries, museums and venues, but also to the Dallas Cowboys, Texas Rangers, Dallas Mavericks and Dallas Stars.

Dallas, which ranked eighth on our list of best cities for new grads for lowest crime rate, is home to two airports and an Amtrak station. New grads looking for jobs might investigate Fortune 500 companies in the greater Dallas area that include AT&T, Exxon Mobile, JC Penney and Texas Instruments. While there are more than 200 golf courses in the area, Dallas also can get snow: a whopping average of 1.3 snow days a year.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 27%
  • Median rent, 2017: $944.62
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $62,125.99
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 16.6%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 227
  • Average commute time to work: 27.9 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 8,295

7. Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte-City

Charlotte joins this year’s list of best big cities for new college graduates for numerous reasons, not just for its historical charm, its large banking center or the fact that it just celebrated its 250th anniversary. Charlotte has impressive rankings on several key points, including median earnings above the national average for bachelor’s degree holders, an average commute time of less than half-an-hour and a 10th place ranking for overall number of entertainment venues.

The city was named after King George III’s wife, Queen Charlotte, and the city’s center still reflects a grid of square blocks highlighting its colonial heritage. At the same time, it features modern day entertainment venues as diverse as Bojangles Coliseum, Spectrum Center and the Belk Theater. College grads also might enjoy the city’s 30 miles of greenways or Jetton Park, a 105-acre waterfront park to the north.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 25.3%
  • Median rent, 2017: $1,001.29
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $60,288.11
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 10.1%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 255
  • Average commute time to work: 25.4 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 8,915

8. San Diego, California

san-diego

Averaging close to 3,000 hours of sunshine every year, San Diego is the second largest city in California and the eighth largest in the United States. Seventy miles of beach line are accessible to its residents, but so are more than 90 golf courses and 6,000-plus places to eat. Balboa Park is just one well-known enticement, boasting art galleries, 15 museums, gardens and the city’s San Diego Zoo.

This city of 1.3 million returns to our list of best large cities for college graduates for several factors, including a low crime rate (#3 overall on our list), strong projected state employment, more than 280 entertainment venues and an average commute time of less than 25 minutes. While the median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders is low compared to other cities on this list, there are plenty of companies with strong growth, including Arctic Zero, Innovative Commercial Environments and Zeeto, all included on the Inc. 5000 list.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 28.2%
  • Median rent, 2017: $1,092.73
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $40,397.29
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 10.7%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 284
  • Average commute time to work: 24.7 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 4,973

9. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis-city

Returning to our list of best big cities for new grads, Indianapolis, known as “Indy,” rose from a #14 ranking on last year’s list to #9 this year. Factors contributing to its upward move include a low average commute time (second lowest overall on our list!), the percent of the population between ages 20 to 34 and a low median monthly rent rate. In fact, Indianapolis has the lowest median monthly rent, at $778.69, of all 15 cities on this list.

At the same time, the city’s median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders reaches above $50,000, beating out the city of San Diego, which also has higher median rent. Money saved in this capital city can mean more discretionary income for enjoying the surroundings, which include the Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indiana Convention Center, 250 acres of green space at White River State Park and the Theater District.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 24.2%
  • Median rent, 2017: $778.69
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $51,735
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 7.6%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 264
  • Average commute time to work: 23.4 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 12,157

10. Fort Worth, Texas

Fort-Worth-Texas

New to our list of best big cities for new grads, Fort Worth, Texas — nicknamed “Cowtown” — offers upscale shopping, cowboy cuisine, NASCAR racing and a multitude of primary entertainment districts — eight, in total. The city of 876,000-plus ranked #10 on our list of best big cities for new grads for its impressive median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, strong state employment and a low crime rate.

With an average commute time of 27 minutes, new employees in the city can easily make it from their place of business to any cultural spot or place of interest. Entertainment options include the zoo, botanical gardens and even the Stockyards District, which features historical landmarks, night clubs, unique shops and restaurants — and yes, even rodeo shows. To help pay for some of these diversions, new grads wanting to settle in Fort Worth might look for jobs in aerospace, education, healthcare and government, with AMR/American Airlines and Lockheed Martin being two of the area’s largest employers.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 23.9%
  • Median rent, 2017: $928.24
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $61,405.23
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 16.6%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 167
  • Average commute time to work: 27 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 8,239

11. Los Angeles, California

Los-Angeles

A city of 3.9 million, Los Angeles joins our list of best big cities for new grads this year. Compelling as it is for its entertainment industry — and the Hollywood stars that might be spotted there — Los Angeles has much to offer new graduates in terms of arts and entertainment centers, percentage of young adults living there and low median rent. In fact, compared to other large California cities on our list, Los Angeles may be the most attractive in terms of rental affordability.

While most people know Los Angeles for its famous Hollywood sign and Walk of Fame stars, the employment opportunities in this southern city stretch far beyond arts and entertainment. Leisure and hospitality is a key industry in the city, but there are other industries well entrenched there. Nearly 200,000 people work in aerospace or technology and about 700,000 are employed in biomedical or health services in the greater L.A. area.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 25.4%
  • Median rent, 2017: $894.43
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $36,491.87
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 10.7%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 396
  • Average commute time to work: 31.8 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 6,017

12. New York City, New York

New-York

It may be hard to imagine the Big Apple making this list, but this city of 8.6 million (Wow!) attracts all types of people. New grads settling here may be drawn by the city’s large number of arts and entertainment venues, the percentage of young adults who call the Big Apple their home or the relatively low crime rate compared to other large cities on this list.

Of course, New York City’s entertainment opportunities are endless, but include everything from Radio City Music Hall to Carnegie Hall and the Lincoln Center. The city’s well-known Central Park features yoga classes, walking tours and bike rentals, as well as a landscape of green. Enjoy restaurants and cafes in the city’s Financial District — home to Wall Street, the New York Stock Exchange, Statue of Liberty and financial deals. New grads landing here may want to turn to major employers like JPMorgan Chase & Co, Citigroup, Inc., Pfizer, Inc., and PricewaterhouseCoopers to look for stellar job opportunities.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 24.7%
  • Median rent, 2017: $932.01
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $44,760.45
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 12%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 315
  • Average commute time to work: 41.8 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 4,208

13. Phoenix, Arizona

phoenix

The largest city in Arizona, Phoenix offers light-rail service, ride-hailing services and bike-sharing programs, all of which provide various transportation options in this city of 1.62 million. New grads settling in Phoenix can take the light rail to the Central Avenue district to get a drink or a bite to eat right after work, stopping in at places such as Bitter & Twisted, Durant’s or Southern Rail.

A median rent of $866 makes this city affordable for grads obtaining their first job or looking to start off in a new place. The average pay for bachelor’s degree holders in this sunny city is well above $50,000, meaning the young adults could find a rent payment easily manageable. Of course, anyone living in this city — which averages 299 days of sun a year — might enjoy catching a Phoenix Suns or Arizona Cardinals game in their free time or after work.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 22.9%
  • Median rent, 2017: $866.22
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $52,488.01
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 18.6%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 175
  • Average commute time to work: 26.3 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 4,208

14. San Jose, California

San-Jose

Returning to our list of best big cities for new college grads for a consecutive year, San Jose is a tech area located in Silicon Valley. Rent may be on the higher end, but the major employers in this city of 1.03 million people include Adobe Inc., Maxim Integrated Products, Inc., and Prime Materials.

This state scored points to make this list for its overall low unemployment rate — compared to other large cities — and strong state projected employment. The third largest city in California, the city was once the first capital of California. It also has an airport, a relatively low crime rate and prohibits the use of plastic bags by retailers. Additionally, pet lovers may want to be aware: there also is a pet quota of five licensed animals total.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 22.7%
  • Median rent, 2017: $1,402.83
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $54,169.64
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 10.7%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 203
  • Average commute time to work: 31.3 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 5,522

15. Chicago, Illinois

chicago

Some theories that exist about this windy city suggest that Chicago got its name more from the politicians full of hot air there than the number of actual windy days. Whatever the reason, new college graduates may find this big city a good choice for its high median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, the large number of art and entertainment centers and an affordable average rent at less than $1,000.

Believe it or not, the first Ferris wheel made its debut in Chicago in 1893, but that is hardly the most interesting thing to entice young adults there. Attractions in this city of 2.7 million include an 18.5-mile lakefront path, more than 5,000 restaurants, over 50 museums, 200-plus music venues and 8,100 acres of green space. Of course, anyone who loves pizza knows that the Chicago deep dish pizza is something to write home about.

Featured data points:

  • Percent of population between 20 and 34, 2017: 27.6%
  • Median rent, 2017: $972.33
  • Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders, 2017: $59,230.37
  • Average projected job growth rate statewide among jobs requiring a bachelor’s degree or above, 2016-26: 5.8%
  • Art and entertainment centers: 255
  • Average commute time to work: 34.9 minutes
  • Crime rate per 100K people: 7,719

 

For this analysis, we ranked 17 U.S. cities that had a city population of 750,000 or more according to 2017 estimates from the U.S. Census Bureau. Each city was ranked on a 10 point scale, using the following seven data points and the weights specified.

  1. Median monthly rent adjusted to the Cost of Living Index, American Community Survey, 2017
  2. Percent of housing units that are occupied by renters rather than owners, American Community Survey, 2017
  3. Percent of the population between the ages of 20 and 34, American Community Survey, 2017
  4. Median earnings for bachelor’s degree holders adjusted to the Cost of Living Index, American Community Survey, 2017
  5. Arts & Entertainment: The number of performing arts, spectator sports and related industries; museums and historical sites; restaurants; and bars per 100,000 residents in each metro area, U.S. Census Population Estimates, 2012; County Business Patterns, 2012
  6. State job growth projections: The average projected growth rate and the projected number of new jobs per 100 people in each metro area, 2016-26, Projections Central, 2016
  7. Unemployment rate, American Community Survey, 2017
  8. Average Commute time, American Community Survey, 2017
  9. Crime rate per 100,000 people, Uniform Crime Reporting, 2015

Methodology Sources:

  • American Community Survey, 2017, U.S. Census Bureau, https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/acs/
  • 2017 Occupational Employment Statistics and 2016-26 Employment Projections, Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS.gov; 2016-26 State Occupational Projections, Projections Central, http://www.projectionscentral.com
  • Uniform Crime Reporting, 2015, Federal Bureau of Investigation, https://ucr.fbi.gov/crime-in-the-u.s/2015/crime-in-the-u.s.-2015

Sources

  • About, Fort Worth, Accessed March 2019, https://www.fortworth.com/about/
  • About San Diego, San Diego.com, Accessed March 2019, https://www.sandiego.org/articles/about-san-diego-ca.aspx
  • A Guide to Charlotte’s Live Music Venues, Charlotte’s Got a Lot, Accessed March 2019, https://www.charlottesgotalot.com/articles/nightlife/a-guide-to-charlottes-live-music-venues
  • Best Concert Venues in New York City, NYC.com, Accessed March 2019, https://www.nyc.com/nyc-guides/best_concert_venues_in_nyc.308/
  • Best Things to Do in Austin, U.S. News, Accessed March 2019, https://travel.usnews.com/Austin_TX/Things_To_Do/
  • Chicago Facts, Choose Chicago, Accessed March 2019, https://www.choosechicago.com/neighborhoods/about-chicago/
  • Dallas Stats and Fun Facts, Visit Dallas, Accessed March 2019, https://www.visitdallas.com/about/dallas-fun-facts.html
  • Drinks by Rail, Visit Phoenix, Accessed March 2019, https://www.visitphoenix.com/learn-plan/getting-around/
  • Facts about L.A., Discover Los Angeles, Accessed March 2019, https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/media/facts-about-la
  • Here are 25 of San Francisco’s Largest Employers, San Francisco Business Times, December 2016, https://www.bizjournals.com/sanfrancisco/subscriber-only/2016/12/30/employers-san-francisco.html
  • Houston Downtown Tunnel System, Houston on the Cheap, Accessed March 2019, https://www.houstononthecheap.com/downtown-houston-tunnels
  • Indy, Visit Indy, Accessed March 2019, https://www.visitindy.com/indianapolis-about-indianapolis
  • Major Employers and Top Companies in Austin, Austin Relocation Guide, Accessed April 2019, http://www.austinrelocationguide.com/Major-Employers-and-Top-Companies-in-Austin/
  • Major Employers in Santa Clara County, Economic Development Department State of California, Accessed March 2019, https://www.labormarketinfo.edd.ca.gov/majorer/countymajorer.asp?CountyCode=000085
  • One Hundred Companies Make the Inc. 5000 List, San Diego Life Changing, Accessed March 2019, https://sandiegolifechanging.org/100-san-diego-companies-make-the-inc-5000-list/
  • San Antonio, AA Roads, Accessed March 2019, https://www.aaroads.com/texas-highways/san-antonio/
  • San Antonio Home Prices and Values, Zillow, Accessed March 2019, https://www.zillow.com/san-antonio-tx/home-values/
  • San Francisco Events 2019, SF Tourism Tips, Accessed March 2019, https://www.sftourismtips.com/san-francisco-events.html
  • 10 Unique Facts about Houston You Didn’t Know, Culture Trip, Accessed March 2019, https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/texas/articles/10-unique-facts-about-houston-you-didnt-know/
  • 10 Unique Facts about Texas, Culture Trip, Accessed March 2019, https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/texas/articles/10-unique-facts-about-dallas-you-didnt-know/
  • The History of Charlotte, Charlotte’s Got a Lot, Accessed March 2019, https://www.charlottesgotalot.com/articles/history/the-history-of-charlotte
  • The 20 Biggest Employers in New York City, Money, Inc., Accessed March 2019, https://moneyinc.com/the-20-biggest-employers-in-nyc/
  • Thriving in the Columbus Region, Columbus Region, Accessed March 2019, https://columbusregion.com/market-research/largest-employers/
  • Twenty-five Things You Should Know about San Jose, Mental Floss, Accessed March 2019, mentalfloss.com/article/73156/25-things-you-should-know-about-san-jose
 

Succeeding With An Online Degree

Online degrees have come a long way in the last decade. Today, many of the nation’s universities have jumped on the e-learning bandwagon, offering students the opportunity to earn a prestigious degree from the comfort and convenience of their own home. But even with this growing acceptance in academia, many students still worry if an online degree program can hold as much weight in the job market as a traditional one. For those interested in pursuing an online credential, but unsure of how it will look to potential employers, we’ve answered a few of the common questions concerning online degrees in the workplace.

  1. Are online degrees accepted and respected by employers?
  2. Can I get a job with an online degree? How do I prepare?
  3. What is a virtual internship?

Online degrees have made a lot of progress in the last several years, both in terms of the education they provide and the reputation they carry in the workforce. Today’s employers view most online degrees the same way they view degrees that are earned in the traditional way, in that the school that issued the degree tends to matter more than whether or not it was earned in a brick-and-mortar classroom.

Naturally, there are a few guidelines to follow to make sure that an individual online degree is worth pursuing. Here are a few vital details about reputable online colleges, as well as some insight into the general standing of certain online degrees in the real world.

How online education can enhance careers

Workforce statistics are pretty clear: education pays. According to data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), professionals with a bachelor’s degree earned around 70 percent more than those with just a high school diploma in 2013. Here’s how the rest of the year’s median annual salary figures break down by education level:

  • High school diploma: $33,852
  • Some college, no degree: $37,804
  • Associate degree: $40,404
  • Bachelor’s degree: $57,616
  • Master’s degree: $69,108
  • Professional degree: $89,128

The numbers speak for themselves. With the improving reputation of online degrees in the workforce, it makes more sense than ever for students to continue their education online.

Online master’s degrees are particularly good for professionals already working in their chosen career field. Continuous work experience can look good on a resume, and certain online degrees — online MBAs, for example — have been in workforce rotation for so long that employers hardly notice whether the degree was earned online or in person.

Are online degrees respected by all employers?

Employers have brightened considerably toward online degrees in the last decade or so, but that unfortunately doesn’t mean that the attitude of acceptance is present in every human resources department. A 2014 story by US News and World Report indicates that negative perceptions of online degrees may still exist in about 25 percent of companies.

A few academic reviews of online learning literature have discovered employers with negative opinions of online degrees tend to harbor the same few conventional stigmas. Here are a few of the most common ones, along with some helpful details about the online education experience that might help debunk these misconceptions:

Common stigma #1: “Online students don’t interact with classmates or professors and never learn how to communicate professionally.”

The truth is that dedicated students in online courses find themselves in nearly constant communication with professors and classmates, whether over email, on message boards, via telephone, or with videoconferencing software. Sure, an online degree might be accomplished without a high level of connectivity, but the same could also be said for most types of degrees earned on campus.

Common stigma #2: “Students don’t learn discipline in online programs because it’s so easy to cheat.”

It’s actually far from easy to cheat in online courses. “Distance learning institutions verify the identity of students when they access the learning management system,” says Dr. Patrick Jones, vice provost at Excelsior College, “and have implemented a host of fraud detection capabilities in recent years, such as keystroke speed, eye-tracking software, and plagiarism detection technology. The sheer number of assessment events within an online course provide ample opportunity for an instructor to detect anomalies.”

Common stigma #3: “Courses that lead to online degrees are less rigorous than those in traditional programs.”

Academic rigor is the same sort of spectrum for online universities as it is for traditional schools. “Specialized and regional accreditation agencies evaluate the rigor and quality of online and traditional degree programs based on the same standards,” Dr. Jones says. Accreditation is an important point to cover, so here’s some more about it and how it can help students identify reputable online programs.

Accreditation: The true academic standard

At least a portion of employers’ negative attitudes toward online degrees probably stems from the “diploma mill” institutes that soiled the reputation of distance learning long before online school came on the scene. Predatory pseudo-schools do still exist, but the Web makes it possible to double-check an institution’s credentials before you get caught in a trap.

Higher education accreditation in the U.S. is typically overseen by regional organizations, although some institutions are accredited by national or specialized accrediting bodies. Here are a few sources students can use for more info on the accreditation process, or to verify that a certain school is legitimately accredited:

  • U.S. Department of Education’s Overview of Accreditation
  • Council for Higher Education Accreditation Database
  • Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs

In addition to the school being accredited, it also tends to be important to employers that the degree-granting institution has a name they recognize. Plenty of respected traditional institutions are offering online degrees, these days; make sure to do plenty of research and the right decision should make itself clear.

People are sometimes hesitant to pursue an online degree because of the misconception that these credentials may not be accepted or respected by employers. The truth is that perceptions of online degrees have been changing in the last several years, and employers are coming to understand that the virtual classroom can provide just as valuable an education as a traditional campus.

Not only are perceptions changing, but more and more established universities are jumping on the online degree bandwagon. Here’s some detailed info about today’s offerings in online education and the changing perspectives on their value in the workplace.

Knowledge is high priority

For most employers, a candidate’s knowledge areas and skill proficiencies far outweigh the details of their degree. Samantha Lambert, director of human resources at digital marketing agency Blue Fountain Media, echoes this sentiment.

“As a general rule of thumb,” says Lambert, “I focus on the skillset and experience the prospect communicates to me before even looking to see what they got their degree in and where.”

What’s more, the numbers show that Ms. Lambert is not alone. A 2013 survey by Gallup and the Lumina Foundation indicates that 84 percent of business leaders polled put more emphasis on the knowledge a candidate possesses than on such details as whether a degree was earned online or on campus.

The Gallup/Lumina survey also uncovered an encouraging statistic about getting a job with an online degree. Poll results showed that 54 percent of employers and business leaders report that they’re actually more likely to hire candidates with online degrees than those who went to traditional schools, all else being equal.

Why perceptions are changing

Some students may remember the media frenzy over massive open online courses, or MOOCs, that took hold of the national education consciousness in 2012. All the press coverage about MOOCs and how they were set to change the face of education helped spread awareness of online education among academics, employers, and the public alike.

Some well-regarded traditional universities were offering online degrees before the MOOC blitz, and even more got into the game afterward. With the growing number of respected institutions offering online degrees, the respectability of online degrees themselves continues to rise.

Employers gaining direct experience with hard-working online graduates doesn’t hurt either. “Individuals with online degrees get tasks done faster,” says Lambert, “and are less affected by distractions.”

Overcoming workforce challenges

Improving perceptions aside, an online degree is no more of a ticket to an automatic job after graduation than a traditional degree. Here’s a rundown of some of the common challenges that online degree holders might face when entering the workforce.

How do I display my degree on my resume?

There’s no need to put an asterisk after the name of your alma mater if you earned your degree online. List the degree just as it appears on the certificate you received at graduation, and make sure to include any specific skills or knowledge areas studied in the same way you would if you’d attended brick-and-mortar classes.

How can I supplement my degree with “hands-on” work?

Some online degree programs at colleges and universities offer hybrid classes, wherein a portion of the coursework is completed at a nearby campus or another associated learning facility. Current or former online students can also seek out internships, either traditional or virtual, or apply for volunteer work at an agency in their chosen field.

How do I prove my degree is “real”?

Employers today understand that your degree is a “real” degree if it comes from an accredited institution. Accreditation is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an online school. If a school doesn’t show up on the U.S. Department of Education’s Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs, it might be what’s known as a “diploma mill” and should be avoided.

Career services at online schools

A potential lack of career services may also warn some students off of online education, but those services are becoming more and more available every day. At many online schools, students can now access job portals, career coaching, resume assistance, job interview training, recruiter partnerships, and other related resources.

Penn Foster Career School is one example of an online institution that provides job services to its students and alumni. According to Penn Foster’s website, nearly 80 percent of their graduates who found work in their field of study did so in three months or less.

The last word on getting a job with an online degree

This is perhaps the most important thing for online students to remember: if your online school is accredited and you dedicate yourself to your education, there’s no reason employers won’t be interested.

It’s a point that HR Director Lambert went out of her way to stress: “Again, I strongly believe that it is not where or how you got your degree but what you did and do with it that matters most. What you took away from your learning experience and how you applied it to your career and skillset is what employers look for.”

To see the supervisor at her last internship, Kendall Murtha had to go hang out on her Google+ account. It was either that or wait until their monthly dinner appointment.

It wasn’t that Murtha’s supervisor was AWOL or negligent. Instead, it was because Murtha is one of a new breed of virtual interns. Rather than head to an office or job site, virtual interns connect with employers either online, via Skype, or on the phone, and then complete their assigned duties on their own.

Online internships are an increasingly popular way for college students to conveniently gain professional experience. A 2013 report from Internships.com found 33 percent of employers had hired virtual interns, an increase of 20 percent from the year before. In addition, 71 percent of students said they would consider a virtual internship.

Murtha, a senior at Colgate University, says she has this advice for students considering virtual internships: “Absolutely take advantage of these opportunities.”

Online internships connect students and businesses

Just as there are many different types of regular internships, there are also many varieties of online internships. For Murtha, her three virtual internships involved monitoring social media accounts, drafting correspondence, and conducting research. Other companies may bring on interns for tasks related to web development, sales, and public relations.

Of course, it isn’t just interns who benefit from the opportunity to work virtually. Angela Hood, the founder and CEO of ThisWay Global, a startup being incubated at ideaSpace – University of Cambridge, says her company has benefited from having a larger pool of talent from which to pull interns.

“We want input from talented people from all over the world, and virtual internships allow us access to people we would not have been able to reach otherwise,” she says.

Recent interns for ThisWay Global have done branding work and coordinated voiceovers, among other things.

Only self-starters need apply

However, having a virtual internship may not be for everyone. With no on-site accountability, individuals must have the self-discipline to stay on task and on schedule.

“Self-reliant students who are looking for opportunities to work independently and are comfortable communicating through email and phone calls should consider virtual internships,” says Yair Riemer, Chief Marketing Officer with CareerArc Group, which includes Internships.com.

Hood adds that even self-reliant students need clear direction to be successful. Her company relies on Skype to communicate regularly with their virtual interns and establishes up front what is acceptable and unacceptable in terms of product delivery. Ultimately, online internships do an excellent job of weeding out poor candidates quickly.

“This format lets you quickly determine which people are self-starters and self-motivated, and which people are not,” explains Hood.

Murtha adds that regular communication is vital to a successful internship, “One of the best tips my old boss gave me was that status updates, even if you don’t hear back, are always appreciated.”

Where to find virtual internships

Internships.com has an extensive listing of virtual internships, which is where Murtha found all three of her online positions. However, opportunities can also be found on a number of other internship and job websites. Of these, InternMatch.com may be among the most prominent.

Students shouldn’t get discouraged if there are limited opportunities for virtual internships in their particular field. The number of companies offering online internships for college students is increasing dramatically.

“Employers are now realizing the potential they have to work with students all across the country and are becoming more comfortable with the many ways that are available to communicate with them,” says Riemer. “That, combined with the flexibility inherent for both students and employers, has led to a surge.”

Questions to ask first

Since every virtual internship is different, it is critical students understand what is expected both of them and of the company before they start.

Riemer suggests students ask the following questions before signing up for an online internship:

  • Who is the point of contact?
  • What is the preferred method of communication?
  • Is the work schedule flexible or are interns expected to be working at specific times?
  • What type of work will be assigned?
  • Will feedback be provided and how will be that be conveyed?

“The more questions you ask and have answered up front, the better your internship experience will be,” says Riemer.

When successful, a virtual internship is a win-win for employers and students alike. Businesses get access to fresh talent while students have the opportunity to gain professional experience for their resume. Riemer suggests a virtual internship can also be a great way for college seniors to extend their summer internship into the fall and keep in touch with potential future employers.

Murtha, with three virtual internships under her belt and plans to graduate next spring, undoubtedly hopes Riemer is right. But either way, the college senior says her experiences have been worth it.

“Every virtual internship I took on helped me gain skills relevant to my ideal career path,” she notes, which may be why virtual internships should make the short list of experiences every college student should consider having before graduation.


Sources:
2014 Virtual Internships, InternMatch.com, https://www.internmatch.com/s/virtual-internships

Angela Hood, Founder/CEO of ThisWay Global, Interview with the author on July 30, 2014
Career Services, Penn Foster Career School, http://www.pennfoster.edu/career-school/career-services
“Earnings and unemployment rates by educational attainment,” Employment Projections, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, http://www.bls.gov/emp/ep_chart_001.htm
Email interview, Dr. Patrick Jones, June 26, 2014
Email interview, Samantha Lambert, July 30, 2014
“Employer Perceptions of Online Degrees: A Literature Review,” Online Journal of Distance Learning, Norina L. Columbaro and Catherine H. Monaghan, www.westga.edu/~distance/ojdla/spring121/columbaro121/
“How Employers View Your Online Bachelor’s Degree,” U.S. News & World Report, Devon Haynie, March 4, 2014, http://www.usnews.com/education/online-education/articles/2014/02/28/what-employers-really-think-about-your-online-bachelors-degree
Internships Survey and 2013 Internship Trend, Internships.com, http://www.internships.com/eyeoftheintern/news/idc-news/internships-survey-2013-internship-trends/
Kendall Murtha, Interview with the author on July 30, 2014
“Today’s business leaders say ‘It’s what you know, not where you go’ when making hiring decisions, new study shows,” Lumina Foundation, February 25, 2014, http://www.luminafoundation.org/newsroom/news_releases/2014-02-25/
Yair Riemer, Chief Marketing Officer, CareerArc Group, Interview with the author on July 30, 2014

How To Earn Your General Education Requirements Online

Most college degree programs typically have certain general course requirements. These courses may include life and physical sciences, history, humanities, math and English, and foreign language. Known as general education or core requirements, these courses can take two to three years to complete.

Can I Take General Education Courses Online?

If you’re working full time and/or have a family, this might discourage you from getting your degree — but don’t let it. Online general education courses make it possible to take these courses without having to attend college.

Because of the flexibility associated with online programs, taking your general education courses online can help you finish them at your own pace, in the convenience of your own home, allowing you to balance work, life and family commitments.

Purdue University Global

  • Experience world-class education online with more than 175 programs at associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels.
  • Apply eligible work experience and prior college credits toward up to 75% of your undergraduate degree.
  • You have the option of trying out a Purdue Global undergraduate program for an introductory 3-week period. There’s no cost beyond the application fee.
  • Competency-based ExcelTrack™ programs may allow you to earn your degree faster and for less money

What Are General Education Courses?

The curriculum for undergraduate programs is typically divided into two parts:

  • General education courses
  • The major field of study

General education courses can be further divided into two components:

  • Core classes, which are mandatory for all undergraduate students. The core curriculum is usually designed to ensure students receive a basic education in foundational topics like math and English.
  • Electives from a specified list that usually includes an assortment of subjects like art appreciation, science and social sciences. The number of electives you need to choose can depend on your degree program.

If you haven’t decided on a major, you may want to look at choosing general education courses that allow you to explore these subjects. For example, you may be interested in psychology as well as English literature. General education courses on those topics may help you decide if you want to major in English or psychology.

If you have decided on your major, you may want to choose electives that complement your major or might enhance your employability in the career you wish to pursue. For example, if you are studying engineering and want to work in academia, a technical writing course may be a good fit. Learning a foreign language may complement a travel and tourism degree.

What Is The Purpose of General Education Courses?

General education courses are designed to provide a broad interdisciplinary education that can help students develop life skills, improve employability and become an informed citizen. In the words of Harvard philosophy professor Sean Kelly, general education courses can help students be “prepared to enter the broader world and to aspire to live a good life in it.”

Apart from giving students a well-rounded education, general education courses can provide students with skills employers want. According to a survey conducted by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 82 percent of employers looked for candidates with problem-solving skills — something that can be learned through general education courses. And these courses can also help you develop other skills employers usually desire, such as communication and interpersonal skills along with analytical, creative, and technical abilities.

Another benefit: You may discover new interests through your online general education courses.

What Factors Should I Consider When Choosing General Education Courses?

Whether or not you’ve decided on a degree program, here are a few factors that are important to consider:

Credit Transfers

If you intend to transfer or apply your credits toward a formal degree program, it’s important that you take your online general education courses from an accredited school. You may find that some state universities actually have cooperative programs with community colleges making it easier to transfer credits earned. While credits for general education core courses that meet certain criteria are generally transferable, schools may not accept elective credits toward a specific degree program. Be sure to explore their transferability before you enroll.

Online Course Format

Many general education courses offered online are asynchronous, which means you can access the course material at any time that is convenient to you. Synchronous classes require you to be available at a certain time online to participate in a live class. Blended or hybrid programs require you to attend some classes in-person and others online. Look for a format that works best with your schedule.

GPA Boost

Selecting a lighter elective can add a little fun to your college experience and alleviate some of the stress of a busy semester. It may also be a somewhat easier to earn a good grade in the class – something that could boost your GPA. However, be aware that not all schools accept transfer credits for all types of courses, so choose wisely.

How Many General Education Courses Do I Need To Take?

The number of general education courses required can vary depending on your college or university and degree. However, you can expect them to cover a third or even half of the credits (typically between 42-60 semester-based college credits of the total 130 – 180 credits) required for your undergraduate degree.

For example, a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree may require more liberal arts and humanities electives compared to a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree, which may require fewer electives and a concentration or specialization instead of general electives. Some highly technical degrees may require fewer general education courses.

Non-credit general education courses

If you want to learn new skills or pursue an interest that falls out of the scope of your degree program and electives offered, you might consider taking non-credit courses online for your personal development – something that could culminate in a certificate of completion. It is important to remember, however, that non-credit courses do not count toward your degree requirements and are not eligible for federal financial aid.

When Do I Need To Complete My General Education Courses?

Typically, colleges allow students to complete their general education course requirements any time throughout the degree program. To make it easier for students, some colleges offer them online with multiple starting dates throughout the year. For example, Penn State University offers online general education courses at a discount during the summer sessions to help students stay on track for their degree requirements.

Students can complete these courses online before they enroll in a degree program or after they finish their specific major requirements. Some states like Arkansas, Kansas and Oklahoma have concurrent enrollment schemes that allow you to earn college credits for your general education courses while still finishing high school.

General Education Course Topics

The university or degree program usually has a set of goals or learning outcomes they expect their students to achieve through taking general education classes. Broadly, most universities expect their students to cultivate the following basic skills through general education:

  • Analytical reading and elucidative writing: Students learn to read and understand complex subjects and describe them
  • Critical thinking: Students learn to understand the nuances of reasoning and distinguish logical reasoning from defective
  • Mathematics: Students understand mathematical ideas and quantifiable reasoning
  • Oral communication: Students can verbally communicate their ideas and thoughts clearly

Typical subject areas and courses are:

English

Many degree programs require up to six credits in English. Courses is this broad area may help you develop your presentation skills, be able to clearly convey your ideas and defend them, and be able to plan, outline, write and edit your work. Some potential classes are:

  • Contemporary literature
  • Poetry appreciation
  • Academic or technical writing
  • College composition

Math

General education math requirements can vary depending on your major. Math courses may help you interpret statistical data and graphs and use the information from them in your work. You can also gain an understanding of the mathematical process and prove simple results using them. Some examples of math courses are:

  • College algebra
  • Principles of mathematics
  • Statistics

Science

General electives in science can give you an understanding of how the materials in the world around you interact and they can even help you in your daily life. A basic understanding of biology, for example, may help you explain your symptoms to a doctor clearly. Some courses you might take are:

  • Principles of scientific thought
  • Earth science
  • Biology

Social Sciences

Social sciences can help you gain an insight into human relationships and help you apply your learnings in your daily interactions with other people. You may also learn how social interactions have changed over time and their diversity in different cultures. Courses may cover:

  • Sociology
  • History
  • Political science

Arts and Humanities

General education classes in this subject area are designed to help students appreciate human history and knowledge as well as how ideas are expressed through art, literature, music and philosophy. You may find courses such as:

  • Modern film
  • Introduction to music
  • Fine art appreciation
  • Religion
  • Philosophy

Apart from these main categories, you may also find general education courses online in covering topics like theology, personal wellness, foreign languages, gender studies and technology.

Sources:

  • Benefits Of Concurrent Enrollment, Investopedia, https://www.investopedia.com/articles/pf/12/concurrent-enrollment.asp, accessed September 2018 Dual Enrollment In Your State, LetsHomeSchoolHighSchool.com, 2017, https://letshomeschoolhighschool.com/2012/07/15/dual-enrollment-in-your-state/
  • General Education, Concordia University Irvine, https://online.cui.edu/degrees/general-education, accessed August 2018 General Education Student Learning Outcomes, California State University Northridge, https://catalog.csun.edu/general-education/student-learning-outcomes/, accessed August 2018
  • Select online General Education courses offered at special rate for summer 2017, 2017, Penn State News, https://news.psu.edu/story/459610/2017/03/31/select-online-general-education-courses-offered-special-rate-summer-2017
  • The Key Attributes Employers Seek on Students’ Resumes, 2017, https://www.naceweb.org/about-us/press/2017/the-key-attributes-employers-seek-on-students-resumes/, National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE)
  • What is the Difference between a BA and a BS?, Grand Canyon University, https://blogs.gcu.edu/blog/what-is-the-difference-between-a-ba-and-a-bs/ What Is the Purpose of Taking General Classes for a College Degree?, Seattle Pi, https://education.seattlepi.com/purpose-taking-general-classes-college-degree-1876/, accessed August 2018
 

Earning a Degree Online

Earning-a-degree-online Better technology tools, improved online learning curriculum and professors better trained to deliver successful experiences to online students — all of which are paving the way to make it easier for students who want to earn a degree online. The popularity of online degree programs is set to boom with colleges and universities across the country introducing more online versions of traditional, on-campus programs. There are thousands of quality degree program choices for those thinking of earning a degree online. A study by Quality Matters, a nationally-recognized nonprofit organization that assures online program quality, states that “online enrollment has continued to outpace overall enrollment in U.S. higher education, fueling greater student and institutional interest”. According to findings from Statista, a leading provider of market and consumer data, 64 percent of higher education administrators chose to increase degree program accessibility by creating online programs on par with their existing on-campus programs. College administrators are also adding new features to their online offerings and implementing marketing strategies to attract more online students, according to a 2018 survey by the Learning House. The increasing popularity of online degree programs along with improvements in their quality has opened access to higher education to a variety of people for whom attending a campus-program would have been nigh impossible. These include:

  • Working professionals looking to earn an online degree for career advancement
  • Career changers looking to switch to a career that has better earning potential
  • Those with family or other commitments have greater flexibility to balance their commitments and earn their degree online

No matter what the motivation to enroll in an online degree program might be, we are sure you have plenty of questions. How do these online degree programs stack up to their on-campus counterparts? And what options are available to online students today? Here you can find the answers to these and more frequently asked questions.

What are the advantages of an online degree program?

There are numerous advantages of studying online. Some of them are:

  • Flexibility: Most online degree programs allow students to study when it is most convenient to them as long as assignments are submitted on time. This means you can still adhere to work, family or other commitments while earning a degree.
  • No commute: Online degree programs do away with commuting to a class allowing you to study from wherever you might be — as long as you have access to the Internet, of course. Students not only save time by avoiding the commute, but the cost of gas, and parking fees. Additional wear and tear on a car is eliminated, and those who are parents can circumvent costs for childcare. Imagine never needing to brave bad weather driving to your campus!
  • Learn without distractions: Online classes allow you to learn at your own pace without distractions and go over coursework as many times as you need to before moving on.
  • Demonstrate your commitment to your field: Earning your degree despite other commitments can show potential employers you are serious about your field and have the dedication necessary to acquire the knowledge you need to succeed.
  • Demonstrate technical skills: Online degree programs may require you to develop new computer skills. This may show potential employers that you are comfortable with technology and are not afraid to learn new skills in general.
  • Advance your career: Earning an online degree may help working professionals make a career change or move up the career ladder in their own field.
  • Increase earning potential: Data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows median earnings increase with higher educational attainment, as does the likelihood of working in management or other professional job roles. For example, weekly earnings of an associate degree holder in 2018 was reported to $862, while those who possessed a bachelor’s degree was $1,198; while weekly earnings of those with a master’s degree were $1,434.

Apart from the benefits mentioned above, online degree programs may let you work full-time, transfer credits, use your work experience toward your degree, which may work toward potential savings in time and money. We discuss these benefits in more detail in the sections below.

Can I still work a full-time job while studying for my online degree?

As crazy as it sounds, it is possible to work full-time and study full-time simultaneously. Possible — but not necessarily easy. Studying for your degree while working full-time requires dedication and a clear view of what you want to achieve. Online degree programs typically allow you to access your classes in your free time so you may utilize your lunch breaks, evenings, weekends and even travel-time to catch up with your education. A few tips for students earning an online degree to help you balance work, family and education:

  • Draw up a study schedule and stick to it. Make sure your family and friends know your study hours so you aren’t disturbed.
  • Schedule your vacation time from work around your exam times or when you know you have a major assignment due to help reduce stress.
  • Keep your employer in the loop — you might just be pleasantly surprised about how encouraging they are.
  • Use every spare minute possible — listen to audio lectures while working out or catch up on reading material on the train.

It may also be important to stay in touch with your online college as they may be able to help you reschedule coursework or take a mini break if work commitments put too much of a strain on you.

What kinds of degree programs are offered online?

You can find a wide range of online programs including art and design , business and management , hospitality and culinary arts , liberal arts and humanities , engineering and architecture , healthcare and nursing , law and criminal justice , computer and technology , as well as education and teaching . According to Schools.com there are 2,325 colleges offering numerous online degree programs. Online programs can usually be found as:

  • Online certificate programs: Not to be confused with professional certifications, these certificate programs are non-degree programs that typically take up to a year to complete. They can act as an introduction to a particular subject and can allow you to apply the skills you learn directly to the workplace.
  • Online associate degrees : Associate degree programs typically consist of general education courses as well as classes specific to your major. Associate degree programs may be terminal degree programs or designed to prepare you to transfer to a four-year college to complete a bachelor’s degree.
  • Online bachelor’s degrees : Bachelor’s degree programs typically build on the topics in an associate degree program to delve in-depth into your chosen field of study. The BLS estimates that about a fourth of the labor force in the country hold a bachelor’s degree only. Additionally, it projects that the employment in occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree for entry-level roles is expected to grow at 10 percent which is faster than the seven percent for others.
  • Online master’s degrees : Master’s degree programs typically focus on advanced topics in your field of study. The BLS predicts that occupations that require a master’s degree are projected to grow by almost 17 percent from 2016 to 2026.
  • Online doctoral degrees : These are typically the highest academic degrees awarded. Of the 101 occupations typically requiring a graduate degree, 63 are likely to require a doctoral or professional degree for entry-level positions.

What are some of the best degrees to earn online?

This is a rather subjective question. Naturally, the “best” online degree would be the one most suited to your needs and interests. That being said, there are some degree programs that lend themselves well to online study. According to a 2018 report by the Learning House, business degree programs are the most popular among online students at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Popular undergraduate online degree programs included psychology and computer science while popular graduate degree program choices included the fields of nursing, education, computer science and social work. Additionally, any good online degree program should be accredited or offered by an accredited online college. If you want to explore online degree programs in more depth, have a look at our article on the Best Online Degrees for 2019 where we’ve ranked online degree programs by looking at factors like accessible education, strong job prospects and earning potential.

What are some of the easiest degrees to earn online?

Answering this question might require reviewing the definition of the word “easy” and in what context it is used. It is hard to list the easiest degrees to earn online because: What is easy for some may not be easy for others: A popular view is that liberal arts degree programs are “easy” while STEM-based majors are difficult. However, the ease of earning a degree is completely subjective and can vary from individual to individual. For example, someone with an aptitude for math may not find a degree program in English easy. Some degree programs are conducive to online learning: Some fields are easier to study online because the curriculum contains subjects that may not need practical or in-person instruction, so you may not need to travel to a brick-and-mortar facility at any point during your study. “Easy” can mean a reduced load of coursework: Another aspect that might make earning a degree online easier is being able to transfer credits from any previous college program you may have taken toward completing you current degree. According to the Online Learning Consortium, many online degree programs also evaluate “alternative credentials” for college credit, so you can make your life experience count. This may make your course load lighter and therefore make it easier to earn your degree online.

How long does it take to get a degree online?

The time taken to earn a degree online may depend on several factors like whether you are studying full-time or part-time, the number of transferable credits you may be able to apply to your degree program which can generally help to reduce the time to degree completion. Time toward degree completion can vary for part-time online students depending on the individual situation and capacities. Usually, those who are studying full-time, take as long to complete an online degree program as their on-campus counterparts:

  • An online associate degree program may take you two years
  • An online bachelor’s degree program may take you four years
  • An online master’s program may take up to two years
  • An online doctoral program can usually take between three to seven years of full-time study

Some online colleges also offer accelerated degree options that may help you complete the required curriculum within a shorter time frame.

What’s the difference between an online and a hybrid degree program?

The only difference between an online degree program and a hybrid program is that hybrid programs require on-campus attendance for certain practical components of the program; whereas online degree programs are 100% online — students need not step on-campus at all. Hybrid degree programs are also known as blended programs and are normally used for degree programs that require practical instruction. Students in blended or hybrid programs usually study theory-based topics online and attend classes on campus for discussions, seminars or practical study. Many science-based, medical and teaching degree programs incorporate this model. Some online colleges may allow you to complete the practical aspects of your degree program at an approved center close to your place of residence, while others may require you to attend short residencies on-campus. Both online and hybrid programs involve interactions with professors and peers through discussion boards, emails and Skype sessions. Online formats may be:

  • Asynchronous: In this format students can access lectures, discussion boards and forums at times that are most convenient to them. Research by Quality Matters shows that online courses are overwhelmingly asynchronous.
  • Synchronous: Synchronous classes are classes that are held at a fixed time. So while students still access their classes remotely, they still need to be present at a particular time to attend the class virtually.

Online learning versus traditional: Which is better?

Deciding whether to earn a degree online or in a more traditional brick-and-mortar setting may pose quite a problem for some. In terms of the quality of instruction you receive, online degree programs are on par with traditional programs. According to a survey of online students conducted by the Learning House, 85 percent of online students (who had previously attended face-to-face classes) felt that their experience in an online course was actually better than their experience in a more traditional setting and 86 percent felt that the value of education they received met or exceeded the cost. Other advantages of an online degree program lie in the flexibility they allow you in terms of study-time and accessibility. Online degree programs may work well if you are self-driven and have the dedication to see your program through to completion. If you work better in a structured environment and are able to commit to a specific schedule, then perhaps a traditional degree program may work better for you. Additionally, online degree programs allow you to focus on your program without the various distractions present in a classroom. However, they still allow you to interact with your peers through group discussions. Some food for thought: The Learning House survey revealed that 60 percent of students who had a choice between online programs and more traditional ones actively chose online learning.

The short answer is no. In fact, some individuals may find them slightly harder as there is no set schedule. When it comes to time management and dedication toward your degree, the ball is in your court. Many online degree programs are nearly identical to their campus-based counterparts in terms of rigor and curriculum, but simply delivered in a different manner so the workload and the required credits for a degree program rarely varies, whether it’s online or on-campus. Additionally, the online nature of your studies doesn’t mean you’ll be exempt from group assignments. In fact, group assignments completed remotely may be viewed as a strong point by potential employers in today’s digitally connected world.

Are online degrees offered by reputable colleges?

Yes. Many reputed brick-and-mortar schools now offer online programs. According to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Labor Economics proposes that one of the advantages of an online degree program from a reputable institute is that it expands access to education and increases educational attainment by opening opportunities for individuals who might not have otherwise chosen to pursue higher education. Employers and college registrars tend to pay more attention to an institution’s name than whether a degree was earned online or traditionally. In short, reputable institutions give respected degrees.

What factors should I consider while choosing an online degree program?

As with choosing any educational program, there are plenty of factors to consider while choosing an online degree program. The Learning House Survey of online students published in 2018 stated that the cost of tuitions and fees was at the top of the list when it came to factors students considered before enrolling in a program. Other factors included the reputation of the program and school, its location, the faculty involved and the study formats used. Some other factors to look at include:

  • Accreditation: This ensures that an institution meets national standards of quality and accountability. Accreditation helps to ensure students that a program or school has been thoroughly assessed for its offerings, faculty members, and curriculum. This may be done through a regional institution, a programmatic institution, or both. Accreditation ensures that an institution meets national standards of quality and accountability. The U.S. Department of Education helps to set standards to assure quality education and any institution can undergo third-party review by an accrediting agency.
  • Student services: Many online colleges offer career support and financial aid services
  • Ability to transfer credits: Being able to transfer credits from work experience and previous college education may mean your workload reduces along with your fees
  • Alumni: Seeing what kind of jobs graduates of the program have been able to secure may demonstrate the outcomes of the program

Numerous colleges offer online degree programs in a wide variety of subjects. Many of these degree programs are entirely online, available to anyone who can meet the admissions requirements of the university. Theoretical subjects like business and accounting lend themselves well to online degree programs as your entire coursework may be studied in an online format. However, programs like nursing, teaching and engineering which may require hands-on learning can require you to attend face-to-face instruction on-campus at scheduled intervals or at a facility approved by your college. Some colleges even include the cost of an on-campus residency in their tuition fees. Additionally, you may need to complete an internship in order to earn bachelor’s degree online. According to a 2018 report tracking distance education in the United States just under half of students enrolled in distance education are taking exclusively online programs. That’s nearly 3 million students!

Are online programs cheaper than on-campus ones?

Not really. The fees you pay for an online degree program can often be comparable to an on-campus program. While the 2018 Learning House survey of online students found that tuition and fees was the top consideration for online students while selecting a program, students also factored in features like the institute’s reputation and convenience of the program to calculate if they received value for money. The survey also found that at the undergraduate level, the common tuition rates were between $300 and $600 per credit. The 2018 Quality Matters Report found that 74 percent of online programs charge the same tuition per course or credit hour as the on-campus rate. While the tuition may often be similar to on-campus programs, there are other factors that may help you save money.

  • Quite a few online degree programs use Open Educational Resources instead of textbooks, allowing you to save money.
  • Transferring previously earned college credits may also help you save on tuition costs.
  • You may also be able to save on living and commuting costs by not having to pay residential fees by living at home.

As Maria Hanson, an online degree student puts it, “I did not have to sacrifice my responsibilities. There is no set time to be in class, no worrying about gas money, traffic or finding a parking space. I simply sit at my computer when I am able and ready and go to work.”

V.J. Sleight gives a great example of one of the biggest advantages of an online degree program, “I had just finished at a brick-and-mortar school and I found it very constrictive. For example, in one of the advanced classes, we had to do a group PowerPoint project — “because it would look good on our resume” — but at my age, I had already delivered PowerPoint presentations at national conferences.” She went on to further state why choosing an online degree program made better sense to her, “I didn’t want to spend countless hours on the freeway commuting, and, locally, the program options didn’t fit into my career path.” The 2018 Learning House survey of online students states that online degree programs offer many services that traditional on-campus facilities lack. In fact, 85 percent of online students surveyed had prior college credit they could transfer. Colleges that cater to adult learners often have prior learning evaluation procedures in place. A 2017 study of six online colleges commissioned by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission demonstrated that online learning institutions have rigorous prior learning assessment (PLA) measures in place and take into account both formal learning such as corporate training, American Council on Education (ACE) credits and college transcripts as well as informal learning from volunteering and work experience. One issue the study uncovered was that many colleges do not make their PLA measure clear on their websites so it can be a good idea to contact the college you are considering to find out what benefits you can avail of. This may help save on the number of modules you have to take, reduce the time taken toward your degree and also tuition costs. It is important to remember that most colleges only accept college credits from accredited colleges and programs. Bridge degree programs operate in a similar fashion allowing eligible students from a two-year college to earn a bachelor’s degree online using their credits from their associate degree.

Are online students eligible for scholarships, grants and other financial aid?

As with traditional students, online students are eligible for federal financial aid. Similarly, the financial aid you are eligible for can vary depending on whether you are enrolled in a full-time or part-time program. The opportunities for scholarships may also vary with some grant-making bodies providing scholarships to both online and traditional students. There are also various scholarships available that cater exclusively to eligible students of online degree programs. However, most financial aid and scholarship programs are only available for students enrolled in accredited online degree programs, so it is important that you check your school or program’s accreditation status before enrolling. According to the Learning House, scholarships offered by colleges and online degree programs have a strong draw for online students and even a relatively small amount could sway their decision to choose one school over another. Tuition reimbursement can also be an important benefit you may be able to use if you work full-time. As college finance may be complicated, especially if you are planning on taking a break while studying or in case of an emergency, it is important to speak to your college’s financial aid office to navigate through it. Any good college may have competent advisors who are happy to help.

Are online degrees accepted by employers?

It is perhaps best to get one thing clear right from the start — your degree is not the only criteria employers are looking at when they are thinking of hiring you. They may want to know how good a fit you are with their company and what you can bring to the table. Having said that, they typically also want to know where you received your education. As online degree programs have gained in popularity, employers too are becoming more comfortable with hiring students who have earned their degree online. As with any degree, employers may want to know if the program you attended was accredited. Regionally accredited degree programs generally have greater standing with employers. The school you attended can also play a big role. Again, as with traditional on-campus degree programs, a reputed institution may have a higher standing. An online degree can also demonstrate:

  • That you have excellent time-management skills
  • You can communicate and manage projects remotely
  • That you have the dedication to learn more and advance in your chosen field

Older students may feel that one of the biggest barriers they have to cross is learning to use the technology needed to study online. However, this is one area where you can set your mind at ease. One of the many advantages of online degree programs is that you don’t need to be a millennial or a computer whiz. A decent internet connection, a laptop that can support programs like Word, PowerPoint and Excel and the ability to use email and navigate the internet using a browser are pretty much the skills and tech you need. Most online colleges deliver their classes through Learning Management Systems that you access using your Internet browser. And if this still sounds a bit daunting, there is usually tech support on-hand to help you whenever you need it.

Can I still interact with my professors and classmates? How does it work?

As many online degree programs are asynchronous in nature, the question of how much interaction you may have with your professors and classmates may cross your mind. The 2018 Learning House survey found that 57 percent of current and past online students found that being able to interact with their peers was extremely important. Interactions can occur through group discussions, group assignments, email and skype. In fact, many online students that we have spoken to over the years have stated how pleasantly surprised they were about how responsive professors were to any questions and how fast they responded. As Linda Rich, who earned two online degrees, puts it “You actually forget that you’re not sitting there and talking to people. The discussion boards can get lively. It depends on the instructors.”

How do I get the practical experience I need for my degree?

Hands-on lab work can be an important part of your degree program, especially if you are studying subjects like biology or chemistry. Online degree programs tackle this through a number of different ways — from virtual labs to having kits delivered to your home. For experiments that require sophisticated equipment or the supervision of your professor, online colleges may either set up a schedule for you to attend laboratory courses on-campus at specific intervals or during short residencies. Online degree programs like nursing or teaching, which require extensive practical experience throughout, may allow you to obtain your experience at an approved center near your place of residence. It can be useful, in that sense, to enroll in an online college with a physical campus near you. In fact, over two thirds of online students live within a hundred miles of their college according to the 2018 Learning House survey of online students. You may also need to complete internships in order to earn your associate degree online or your bachelor’s. This can help you gain a sense of what working in your chosen field is actually like.

Do I need to purchase textbooks?

Whether you need to purchase textbooks can depend entirely on your program. Many schools offering online degree programs may provide you with a list of textbooks and reading material you may require before the start of any program. You may also have the option to rent your textbooks through your university. It can also be a good idea to get in touch with your professors to see if the edition of the textbook matters for your program as the price difference for these can be quite high. According to the Learning House Survey, Open Educational Resources (OERs) can lower your textbook costs significantly. Many online degree programs use these along with providing their students access to virtual libraries.

Short answer? Yes. Assignments still need to be turned in on time and you may need to sit for proctored examinations depending on your online degree program. Additionally, you may still have to complete group assignments where you collaborate with other students virtually to get them finished. While coordinating across different time-zones can be difficult, the fact that you managed to get a good grade on your group assignment can look great on your CV in today’s digital world. Contrary to what one might think, it can be difficult to cheat on online assignments as most universities have anti-plagiarism systems in place.

What kind of career support services do colleges offer online students?

The support systems colleges offer their online students may vary. Career services are a popular feature offered with over 75 percent of online students surveyed by the Learning House stating that their college offered these services. Some colleges allow alumni to continue to access these services long after they have graduated. As graphic design alumnus Cassandra Allen has experienced, “The school provided student job placement. I continue to have the opportunity to utilize the online job board.” Career services can also include resume building, interview workshops, job fairs, networking events and more. The Learning House reports that two thirds of the students who did not have access to career services stated that they wished their colleges offered them.

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