Rankings are extremely important to consider when evaluating 
How are online college rankings determined?
The best college and university rankings are usually determined by combining a wide variety of important factors. When evaluating the strength of an online college degree, the size of the university, the cost, amount of programs offered, and accreditation are solid indicators, but by no means the only elements that should be considered. Useful undergraduate and graduate rankings also take into account things like graduation rate, job placement rates, both student and educator feedback, as well as the general popularity of the university.
How is an online education different from a campus-based education?
Many prospective students often hesitate to take the plunge into an online college education because they don't fully understand the differences between it and a traditional campus education.
- Extremely Flexible Schedule: Many online college courses offer a schedule that is much more flexible than traditional campus classes. Many classes offer lectures that simply need to be watched at some point before an examination.
- No Commute: In traditional campuses you can live on campus, or you can commute to campus. This commute can be expensive because of gas prices, and can also result in extra costs for parking, loss of time, and so on. An online college education eliminates the need for a daily commute, which can do wonders to help cut costs.
- Lower Costs: Not always, but often times, getting college degrees online can be somewhat cheaper than a traditional campus degree. Costs are lower because of the lack of costs for commuting and room and board. Additionally, online universities typically only charge students for the actual class, without other fees. Traditional college campuses often charge students lab, administrative, or activity fees that can increase costs significantly.
- Many Degree Options: Traditional campuses do offer a variety of degrees, but students are often limited to only those campuses that are in their immediate area. Online colleges allow students much greater flexibility in selecting a school that offers the specific degree they are looking for, without having to worry about physical distance limiting their options. Some online colleges offer degrees that are simply less common in traditional universities.
What is the average salary of someone with an online degree?
No matter who you talk to, everyone agrees that when you obtain more education and certification, your earning potential will increase. Someone who has an online degree from a well ranked online university, who otherwise would have only had a high school diploma, should also see their salary increase. The average salary for someone with an online degree is highly variable, depending on the specific degree an individual is pursuing. In general, however, someone who has a basic degree has an earning potential in the $30,000-$40,000 range. Persons with advanced degrees such as masters and PhD's can see their earnings go up to over $100,000. This is far above the average salary of someone without a post secondary degree, which is closer to $20,000.
What schools offer online college degrees?
There are many different schools that offer online degrees. Some schools that have traditional brick and mortar campuses are also now offering online degrees. Below you'll find a list of some of the most popular schools offering an online college education.
- University of Phoenix: The University of Phoenix offers several high quality programs in a variety of focuses. These include associate's, bachelor's, and masters degrees in business, science, technology, and health fields.
- Kaplan University: Kaplan University offers a plethora of online programs at many degree levels, including Associate's, Bachelor's, and Master's Degrees.
- Ashford University: Since its founding in 1918, Ashford University has been providing a quality education. Its online programs are very well regarded and can allow students to finish degrees in as little as 12 months.
- Capella University: Capella offers Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral Degree programs that are tailored to fit the needs of students.
- Grand Canyon University: GCU focuses on providing students with Bachelor's and Master's Degree programs. Being an online Christian university also gives students a unique perspective.
- Liberty University: Liberty University students can pursue degrees in a variety of subjects including business, communications, and humanities through LU. Degree levels range from Associates to Masters degrees.
- Walden University: Students interested in earning anything from a Bachelors degree to a Doctoral degree would do well to consider this academic institution.
- Westwood College: Westwood College degrees are well respected and highly ranked in a variety of key areas. Students can pursue Associate's and Bachelor's degrees
- DeVry University: You can reach for the sky with a DeVry University education. DeVry offers a variety of technology degrees that are great for advancing your career.
- Boston University: Boston University has a rich tradition, and has now joined the online education world. Students can earn a degree from this well-regarded university that was founded in 1839.
What kinds of financial aid are available for online schools?
Financial aid is generally always available in the form of loans and grants for those who demonstrate need. Just because you decide to attend a school online does not exclude you from being eligible for financial aid. In fact, filling out a FAFSA form is often the best first step to take in order find additional funding for school. There are also many unique and interesting scholarships available for perspective students. For example, the Culinary Institute of America's All-American Apple Pie Recipe Contest, offers a scholarship to the best Apple Pie maker. If you can cook, it's easy money! Individual schools also offer a variety of scholarship programs, so research is key.
