E-Learning: From High School Diplomas to Graduate Degrees

You need two courses to finish your high school diploma, or GED. You've noticed that all of the new hires in your company have four year degrees, and want to finish yours. Your career has hit a dead end, and you're thinking a professional certification or graduate degree will get enhance your career potential. If any of these situations apply to you, then online education can assist in meeting your goals.

Reduce or Eliminate Time Consuming Classroom Attendance

You've delayed completing your education due to time constraints created by personal and professional responsibilities. You may also feel that you won't fit in among traditional students. E-learning programs provide a very flexible platform for completing your studies when convenient. They may also allow extended time for completion.

Tips for Finding the Right Online Education Program:

• Make sure the program you choose is properly accredited. This ensures that your e-learning program meets regional academic standards and that the credits you earn are transferable to other academic institutions.
• Compare online course content to traditional academic programs. If little or no course work is required, or if you can earn a degree solely by sending a check, it's too good to be true. Beware of scams and "diploma mills."
• Find out if, how and when you can communicate with your instructors. Most e-learning programs provide for online discussion groups, dedicated e-mail, and "bulletin boards" for posting questions and comments pertinent to your coursework. It's important that you will be able to contact your instructor and expect timely responses. Online interaction with other e-learning students can be helpful, too.

Do Your Homework

Contact several schools to discuss your questions, goals, and expectations. If you choose a local program, you may be able to set up an appointment with an academic advisor. It's important to be comfortable with e-learning and the program you select. Online education programs provide a great variety of e-learning opportunities; don't delay in finding one that's right for you.

Karen Lawson is a freelance writer whose interests include topics in postsecondary education and healthcare. She holds BA and MA degrees in English from the University of Nevada, Reno.