Online Education: Top Five Reasons an Online Diploma Program Can Benefit You

Saturday, 28 May 2011

Top Five Reasons an Online Diploma Program Can Benefit You

Today, enrollment rates in online learning programs are exceeding the enrollment rates at traditional, campus-based universities. In fact, many universities are embracing the shift to online learning. In the fall of 2007, two out of every ten students in higher education programs took at least one course online.
Although numerous careers do not require a college degree, they do require training beyond a high school degree. As e-learning technologies have improved and more higher education institutions have embraced online learning programs, there has also been growth in a new type of degree to fulfill this post-secondary training--the online diploma.
If you have been skeptical of online learning, here are five reasons why an online diploma program may be of benefit to you.

Reason #1: Employment Opportunities

Many people are learning new skills to cope with the economic recession. Community colleges throughout the U.S. have reported escalating enrollments. President Obama's economic-stimulus bill even includes $4 billion that should go towards job training programs. To survive company lay-offs, or find new employment, many have benefitted from returning to school through online education programs.

Reason #2: Diverse Career Options

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many of the top 20 fastest growing occupations only require a diploma or certification rather than a degree. These include:

Personal and home care aides
Home health aides
Makeup artists, theatrical and performance
Medical assistants
Skin care specialists
Pharmacy technicians

Reason #3: Respect

While many people started out skeptical of online education, it's now become standard practice. Harvard, Columbia, and Cornell, all Ivy League schools, have extensive e-learning programs. Today, the University of Phoenix is the nation's largest private school with nearly 200,000 students.

Reason #4: Convenience

Enrolling in an online degree program allows you to attend a school anywhere in the world without relocating. Distance learning is typically flexible and can easily be integrated into your busy work and family schedules. Most distance learning programs make course materials available 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. You have the choice to study when and where you want--without the distractions of a busy library or classroom.
Using the Internet may also be less intimidating than the traditional classroom experience. E-learning programs offer anonymity and a comfortable learning environment--your own home.

Reason #5: Program Availability

Laura Horwitz has worked as a freelance writer and researcher for seven years in both London and the US, focusing frequently on education and career advice. She has also taught English and journalism. She currently lives in Los Angeles.

Online Education