Before the Internet, they were called "correspondence courses." Now, approximately 4 million students are enrolled in online schools and universities. There are various reasons for the popularity of distance programs:
- It's just plain convenient — go to college in your pajamas!
- Students of any age can take higher education courses anytime, from anywhere, at a large number of schools nationwide: More than 75% of colleges and universities in the U.S. offer online degree programs
- Online learning enables more one-on-one time with the instructor
- Course material is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; students can "go to class" at their leisure
- Participating online is considered by many to be less intimidating than classroom participation
- Students can access much of the school's library from their computers
- All students get an equal chance to contribute in class
- Because there are no geographic barriers to online learning, students can find course material that may not be available to them where they live or work
Some of the obvious drawbacks of distance programs:
- No campus-based social or academic life
- No away-from-home dorm or fraternity/sorority experiences
- No true bonding with the brick and mortar aspect of your school
- Your "alma mater" is more of an abstract concept
- Detachment from professors, who you can't see and who can’t see you
- No traditional graduation ceremony
Online education isn't for everyone, but if it's for you, Loan to Learn® Distance Learning Loans can help make it possible by supplying the money you need for tuition and fees.