Why Distance Learning?

Much has been said of distance education and online learning. My personal experience has been very positive. Online learning through University of Phoenix has allowed me to continual my professional career and further my skills at the same time. That being said one of the major advantages of pursuing an online degree is the caliber of the colleagues you will be working with. Many of your classmates will have a wealth of professional experience and will in many cases be actually engaged in the field in which you are studying. I have had classes with high level professionals from all over the world, from Jamaica to Japan. This exposure to actual practitioners is a plus if you plan to establish a career in the field in which you are studying. Theory is great and has its place, but learning how to execute that theory is what makes the difference between success and “another trip to the drawing board”.

The selection of online universities has perhaps never been greater; many universities are now offering online programs. Penn State University and The University of Wisconsin have become two “traditional” higher education powers who are now seeking to establish a major presence in the “online” arena as well. The University of Phoenix and Capella University are two distance education “heavyweights” that focus on providing higher education to the working professional.

My advice to those seeking higher education is to investigate the university before enrolling. Talk to practitioners in the field in which you intend to study, find out what their impressions are of the university and its graduates, also speak with graduates of the school which you are considering attending. What are the pervading sentiments among the institution’s students?

The final and most important point I will make is to make sure that the university is accredited through a recognized body. Look to see what other schools are accredited by the accrediting body. For instance the University of Phoenix is accredited by the same organization that accredits The Ohio State University, Ohio University, The University of Michigan (Go Blue) and Michigan State University… not bad company.