The Financial Benefits of a Distance Learning College Education

According to a report by The College Board, the cost of four-year tuition at a public college or university in 2002-2003 was around $16,324, while the cost of four-year tuition at a private college or university was $73,092.

Get What You Pay For

For many, getting the most bang for their college buck begins with investigating the benefits of college through distance learning. Distance learning is quickly becoming one of the best ways for working adults to further their education while making the most of their time and money.

Going the Distance for Education

One way to avoid at least some of the economic burden of earning your college degree is through distance learning. For working adults, distance education means you won't need to quit your current job, so you can keep earning the money you count on while you're in school. Distance education can also decrease or eliminate transportation costs associated with commuting to a school campus since it's all done from the comfort of your own home.

Best Investments: College Degrees and Distance Learning

Salary.com reports that the average salary for a high school graduate was around $26,000 in 2003, while the average salary for an employee with an associate's degree was $33,000. It may only be a difference of $7,000 per year, but over the course of your lifetime, that can really add up.

Degrees of Success: The Best Distance Learning Degrees

Which distance education degrees are the best investments? Based on the cost-to-benefit ratio, an associate's degree is a great place to begin your investigation into distance learning, but don't stop there. A bachelor's degree means an average salary of $43,000 and a master's degree, $53,000, so every investment in education you make can have a significant financial impact.
With distance learning there's no limit to your education and your financial future.
Sources:
The College Board
Salary.com

Edward Castro is a freelance writer specializing in new technology, entertainment, and the World Wide Web. He currently assists entrepreneurs in using the Web.