5 QUALITIES YOU MUST LOOK FOR TO IDENTIFY BEST ONLINE COLLEGE UNIVERSITIES

To earn better salaries, higher education is important. However, it is not feasible for everyone to take out the time and attend traditional classes that last for an hour or two at the university. So, what’s the next best option you ask? Well, the answer is quite simple; apply to an Online University. Online Universities not only allow you to earn your degree but also you can do it at your convenience.

According to a report published by Babson Survey Research Group, in 2015 to 2016, the online course enrollment of public colleges and universities was at 7.31%, the largest. Moreover, based on federal data, the report also found out that more than 6.3 million students, mostly undergraduates, took at least one online course in the fall of 2016. Seeing these numbers, rest assured, your choice in pursuing a degree from an online college is worthwhile.

Now that you are assured about your choice, the question that may befuddle you is how to find the right college for you among all the best online universities ? Here are 5 qualities that you need to look for to identify the best online universities.

1. EXPERIENCE & REPUTATION

When it comes to education, never play around. Look for colleges and universities that have been around for decades. It is extremely easy to be lured in by the low tuition fees offered by newly established online colleges which more often than not end up being fraudulent. While looking for online colleges ensure that it has been around for a longer period. Additionally, on the side of caution and try to find out about the reputation of the college, check reviews of the college on chat forums or ask the opinion of someone who has already taken an online course at the same college. Your degree won’t be in jeopardy as reputed colleges are more trustworthy.

Another significant thing to consider is the experience of the teaching faculty. Apply to an online university where most of the staff has relevant experience in online learning as well as their field of choice.

2. ACCREDITATION

Whenever applying for any college or university, on campus or online, ascertain whether the institution is accredited or not. Accreditation ensures that the university passes the standards of quality education set by the state or the center. Check whether the university has national or regional accreditation. Employers generally look for prospective employees who have graduated from accredited institutions.

3 . CONVENIENCE OF LEARNING

One of the most common reasons for choosing to pursue a degree via online colleges is the flexibility that it affords. Before fixing upon an online university verify whether the university has a fixed schedule for classes or you can opt for classes at your convenience. Furthermore, establish class timings if the university follows a fixed schedule. Be sure to confirm if the university requires an on-campus meeting.

4. ONLINE STUDENT RESOURCES

Some online colleges provide student resources only on campus. This proves detrimental to students who have applied for an online degree. While deciding upon which online college to apply for, ensure that the college provides student resources online, too. Basic provisions should include access to an online student library, lab resources, and digital learning tools. These are crucial for completing your online degree comfortably.

5. SUPPORT SERVICES

Another deciding factor while choosing an online university is the support services the institution provides its students. Apply to colleges that supply their students with academic, technical and career support services. Being an online student, it would be vital for you to have access to these services for completing your degree on time and in the best manner possible. Ascertain the time that the support staff can give you and check whether it matches with your schedule. Try to enroll in colleges that have 24/7 support services provision.

So, while hunting for best online universities be sure to tick these qualities off of the list.