Most Wanted: The Popularity of Online Degrees

According to the Distance Education and Training Council, approximately 4 million students are involved in “distance” or online coursework at United States colleges and universities. Additionally, the number of overseas inquiries about online learning has increased 40 percent since September 11, 2001.

Why the interest in online education? Simply put, it is convenient and usually available when you are. Online learning works around your schedule and not the other way around. No more frustration of running from work to class, rushing through family dinner or having to make alternative employment arrangements to fit your education into your schedule. In particular, online learning is good for military service members who may find themselves anywhere in the world, as well as stay-at-home moms who need to be available for their children during the times when brick-and-mortar schools are in full-swing.

While some might point out that the quality of online learning is substandard to that of face-to-face schooling, this has not proven true. Online learning outcomes are comparable to traditional schools. According to research conducted by the Babson Survey Research Group/The Sloan Consortium, more than 76 percent of public institution leaders believe online learning is as good or better than face-to-face instruction. Apparently, even well-known and respected schools such as Cornell would agree, and have implemented online-only programs to further enhance their offerings.

Additionally, economic factors also weigh heavily on why so many people are choosing an online education. In a slow economy, the difference in earnings between degreed and non-degreed workings becomes glaringly apparent. According to the Department of Education, the average earnings for a person with a Bachelor’s degree is 50 percent higher than average of one holding only a high school diploma.

With everything in mind, having a degree makes sense, and obtaining one through a convenient means like the Internet makes this ring even more true.