The benefits of a bachelor’s degree are numerous, but the time and cost of going to school can be a roadblock for many. Fortunately, the rise of online education has made it easier than ever to get your degree while balancing other responsibilities. In fact, over 20% of all college learners now take at least one course every year online. If you’re considering going back to school or launching your career by getting a bachelor’s degree, an online program might be right for you. Here are five tips to help you succeed in an online college program.
Know your options
A bachelor’s degree can lead to a range of exciting career opportunities, but not every program is available online. If you’re interested in a certain degree program, start by checking to see if an online option is available. You may also want to consider an online associate degree program. Associate degree programs are shorter than bachelor’s degrees and can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree, with many employers looking for candidates with associate degrees. If you’re changing careers and don’t have any previous work experience in a related field, going for an associate degree first can help you get your foot in the door.
Take it one class at a time
Online degree programs let you break up your coursework into smaller chunks. For example, you might take one course at a time and complete one class in eight weeks, or you can choose a program that lets you take two or three classes at the same time. You’ll likely have to meet certain course requirements and fulfill a graduation plan for your degree, but by taking one class at a time, you can better manage your time and prioritize your workload. You should also keep in mind that most colleges require you to take a few classes at a time. That way, you can get your degree faster and finish sooner.
Set goals and stick to your schedule
If you’re struggling to stay on track and meet your goals, set up a schedule and make a plan for each semester. Review your schedule regularly and make adjustments as needed, and stay on top of course requirements and due dates to avoid falling behind. If an online program is part of your work schedule, consider getting up earlier, working late, or taking advantage of times when your office is less busy. You might even want to consider taking a class during your lunch break. Another idea is to complete coursework at home, with most online programs letting you complete coursework remotely. business and management professionals
Stay on top of coursework and assignments
When you’re taking classes, you’ll likely have assignments, readings, and other coursework you need to complete. Stay on top of course requirements and due dates, and keep track of assignments so you don’t miss anything and can stay on track with your course load. Remember that you might have a different instructor for each class, so it’s a good idea to get to know the other members of your online learning community. You can use online discussion boards and other tools to get to know your classmates and get help when you need it.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help
Online education can be challenging and it may take some time to find your feet. In fact, for many it’s a big adjustment to go from in-person to online learning. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your school may offer free tutoring or mentoring programs, and you can also find both online and in-person groups and communities where you can connect with others and get the support you need. You can also check in with your professors periodically to let them know how things are going and get advice on how you can stay on track.
Conclusion
A bachelor’s degree is a major milestone, and the road to graduation can be long, challenging, and expensive. Fortunately, more colleges and universities are offering online degree programs. If you’re interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree, start by looking into your options to see which programs are available online. When you know your options, take your time to find the right program for you and create a schedule that lets you stay on top of your coursework and assignments. By staying focused and setting goals, you can succeed in an online college program and achieve the bachelor’s degree you’ve worked so hard for.
