Copyright 2006 Alvin Toh

An online degree opens up a world of opportunities including a new career, better job prospects, skill enhancement and career progression. Studying online is a great way to further your education while keeping your present job and looking after your family.

Here are 7 tips on choosing an online degree.

1. Check the credibility of online colleges or universities. Spend time to speak with friends and search for reviews on the internet or in publications. Find out faculty-to-student ratios and class sizes. Smaller class is better because you get more attention from a tutor.

2. Make sure you pursue an accredited online degree program. Otherwise, you may end up with a degree that is not recognized by your employer. Search for third party reviews and testimonials on the internet. You should be able to find out what others are saying about a particular program. Remember, if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Use your common sense.

3. You must be committed to spending the required amount of time to obtain your degree. Studying online can be difficult for some students because they can be lacking in the motivation usually given by close contact with other students and lecturers.

4. Determine your interests and choice of subjects. If you choose a degree program that you enjoy, you are more likely to complete it successfully.

5. You should be able to set a schedule for your work, study and other commitments. If you can't find the time to do so, then you definitely won't have time to study. Make sure that you have a quiet place to study. If you have a spouse, kids or friends in the house, there are bound to be distractions. Can they give you the time and space you need? If not, consider going to a nearby library.

6. What is the technology expected from you? Are the technology requirements beyond your capacity? Do you have the required level of computing knowledge? Most likely, you are required to have a computer, printer and internet connection. You may be communicating with tutors and students via email or teleconference. Would the technology or computing knowledge be a barrier to you pursuing an online degree? Consider taking a computing course to brush up your computer skills. Make sure there is tech support from the online college or university.

7. Some programs require occasional attendances at the college or university campus. Can you fit these into your schedule? If you don't show up for a meeting or class, you can be penalized by losing marks in your overall score.

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