Business is the most popular field to study today whether it’s an on-campus or online program. Unlike in the past when online degrees were looked on negatively, today online programs are extremely popular. Considering studying this but not sure if your schedule allows for the time required? Learn how fast and easy is can be to get an education in this popular field over the Internet.
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1. What Level of Study Interests You?
Before you choose a program or an online school, you should know what you want to study, what degrees they offer and what you hope to pursue. Associate degrees typically takes two years to complete, and bachelor’s take four years. If a master’s is your ultimate goal, you can plan on a couple more years. One main advantage to Internet education is that you can decide how fast you want to complete your training.
2. Get Some Experience
Most programs require that students have some sort of experience whether it’s an online or on-campus program. It’s advantageous if you can find a job in business/company setting so you can obtain some experience prior to enrollment. However, online programs do give you the opportunity to work while you study.
3. Choose a School
Getting an education through distance learning gives you many more options in terms of choosing a school. Since you don’t have to travel, the sky is the limit so to speak. There are some things to consider when choosing your school.
- Does the school offer the major that interests you?
- What type of student support do they offer?
- What are the admission requirements?
- What are the school’s graduation rate?
- What are the school’s job placement rate?
- Is the school accredited?
4. What About Accreditation?
Do not underestimate the importance of choosing a school that’s accredited. It can make all the difference in a potential employer respecting an Internet education. It can also mean the difference of your eligibility for student loans or grants. A school can be regionally accredited, nationally accredited or both. Just because a school says it’s accredited on its website does not necessarily mean it’s accredited by reputable agency.
Consider checking with the Council for Higher Education Accreditation or the U.S. Department of Education. Both of these agencies have a list of legitimate accreditation agencies. Most reputable online schools will be accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. A business school may also be accredited through the ACBSP and the AACSB.
5. What to Expect
As an online student, things will be much different than if you’re in an on-campus program. While you’ll be working at your own pace, there may still be certain deadlines you’ll need to meet for exams or certain assignments. If a class requires lectures and classroom discussions, you may be required to be online at certain times. Even with easy online programs, a certain level of commitment is required. Although many of your classes will depend on your major, you can expect to complete the following courses.
- Communication
- Statistics
- Accounting
- Ethics
- Management information systems
- Human resources management
- Principles of finance
- Principles of marketing
Advantages of Distance Learning
When considering an Internet, the first thing students think of is that they can study at home at their convenience. However, there are many other advantages to attending school via distance learning.
- No commuting required
- No fuel expenses
- More affordable than on-campus programs due to fewer program and school fees
- No need for lodging expenses
- No relocation requirements
- Flexible class schedules
- Can continue to work while getting an education