If you are considering pursuing an online degree, there are many points to consider. The quality of online degrees can be equal to the education received at a traditional school, and the image of online degrees is catching up with this reality. More students, educators, and employers are embracing online education. Despite the fact that online education offers a wonderful opportunity for many to earn a degree, the structure is not for everyone. Take some time to consider the following pros and cons to help you determine if an online degree is right for you.

Pros:

• Earning a degree online offers a flexible schedule that allows you to study at the time that is right for you. If you have a full-time job or family responsibilities, you can fit your studies around your schedule.
• Many times, an online degree saves money. Not only can tuition be less expensive, but you won’t pay for commuting expenses of gas and parking fees, and traditional (and expensive) text books are usually not required. If you would have to hire a sitter to watch your children during class, online educations eliminate this costly expense as well.
• Online degrees allow you to work at your own pace. You can spend less time on the topics you grasp easily and more time on those that pose a bit more challenge.
• All online students participate in class discussion through a variety of sources (IM, email, group chat). Unlike traditional classrooms where students can frequently sit quietly without participating, many online classes include discussion as a part of the grade.
• Since the nature of online education is typically one of a varied type of student, you will likely come into contact with a variety of different people of all ages and from all walks of life. This contact will only enrich your educational experience.
• Often online degree programs are accelerated, which means you can complete your degree more quickly.
• Professors are available through email. In traditional classes, professors may not have time to talk to all the students after class, but with an online class, you have your professor’s undivided attention via email.
• Financial aid is available to students earning a degree at an accredited school.

Cons:

• Students earning an online degree must be comfortable with technology. All of your coursework will be completed using the computer and various programs–some of which you may not be accustomed to using at first.
• Earning an online degree requires a personality that can impose structure and discipline in order to get the coursework completed. Unlike set class times, students must ensure they set aside time for studying each day.
• Independent learners do best with online degrees, so those who require more guidance or hands-on demonstrations may struggle.
• Some types of classes are not practical online–such as labs.

After reading through this list, take some time to consider what you are hoping to achieve. Think about how your learning style and personality will perform with the unique structure of online education. It might also be helpful to talk with others who have graduated with an online degree to hear about their experience. Honestly evaluating your situation is an excellent way to prepare yourself for an online education so that you don’t encounter any unexpected surprises. That way you will be ready to devote your energy to obtaining a well-earned online degree.

Top Online Colleges

	University of Phoenix - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's & Doctorate Degrees. University of Phoenix is one of the world's most respected online universities with a large number of upper level degree plans to choose from. University of Phoenix has classroom classes available as well as being able to take classes from the comfort of your home.
	Kaplan University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Kaplan University offers college degrees in many of the fastest growing industries in the United States today. With accredited degrees at affordable prices, Kaplan makes it easy to get a college degree in just over two years.
	Ashford University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Ashford University prepares students for high profile careers with a well diversified curriculum in a number of fields. Ashford University is available for students seeking to obtain a college degree at an affordable price and completely from home.
	American InterContinental University Online - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Students seeking to complete a secondary or uncompleted degree can easily get that degree at American InterContinental University. AIU has a variety of course offerings that can be taken from your home computer or in a classroom after you get off from work.
	Saint Leo University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. As a well-known, online university, Saint Leo University has educated students with their various degree programs for over 25 years. The university is mostly ideal for students who have other time constraints because they give students the opportunity to learn from home, without ever having to commute to a traditional campus.
	Everest University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Each student attending Everest University receives personalized attention from faculty, and administrative staff. Everest University is an accredited university with a plethora of degree plans available to most students.
	Colorado Technical University - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's & Doctoral Degrees. Colorado Technical University provides working individuals with the opportunity to earn a reputable degree that fits within their own schedule. Their online portals are available to students at any time of day, allowing students to access their course materials, lectures, and discussions at a time convenient for them.
	Grand Canyon University - Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Offering over 45 degree programs, Grand Canyon University not only provides career-focused curriculum, but has a wide range of subjects that students can choose from. Their online courses allow students with time contraints the opportunity to receive a higher education.
	DeVry University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. DeVry University educational programs are flexible, affordable, and convenient for students interested in learning at their own pace. DeVry University provides students a stable educational foundation that is a perfect starting place for students looking to launch a new career.
	Liberty University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Liberty University is regarded as one the most well known online colleges in the world. Students receive personal attention from an acclaimed faculty, and have the ability to take classes from home.
	Strayer University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. At Strayer University, students could receive quality education anytime, anyplace with the university's easy-to-use online portal. This gives busy individuals the opportunity to work or take care of their families while still being able to obtain that degree they've been yearning for.
	Penn Foster Career School - Certificates. From business management to criminal justice degrees, Penn Foster Career School offers exceptional, quality education at an affordable rate. Their courses are flexible, allowing students with time constraints the opportunity to advance in their career.