Five Myths on Online Education

Online degree programs are more popular than ever. Despite this, there are many prospective students and employers that are still skeptical about the creditability of online colleges and universities. Here are five myths to dispel on online education. 1. Online education isn’t as valuable as traditional education. According to a 2009 study conducted by the U.S. Department of Education, not only is online education considers of equal quality to its campus-based counterpart, it may be a superior form of learning. Online students have shown a long-term result of performing better academically and professionally. This is largely attributed to the customization of online education and how it adheres to several types of learners. 2. Online education is easier than campus-based education. Reputable online degree programs are held to the same standards as their campus-based counterparts thanks to accreditation agencies. Schools that offer both online and campus-based degree programs, such as Saint Leo University, model the online program after the campus-based program to deliver an equally challenging academic experience. 3. Online degrees don’t get jobs. While it’s true some archaic employers still cling to the idea that online education is only made up of degree mills, most large corporations and successful businesses have recognized the value of distance learning. 4. Online degree programs are not transferable. An online degree program’s units are transferable to other schools that fall within the jurisdiction of the accreditation agency that reviewed the online degree program in question. This means that an online degree program fulfilled through a school accredited by one of the Six Regional Accreditation Agencies may be transferable all over the world, whether the student is applying for a graduate program or simply transferring units. 5. Online degree programs finish faster than campus-based programs. All colleges have the potential to offer accelerated learning opportunities, whether they are online or traditional education providers. Similarly, colleges reserve the right to only offer traditional 4-year degree programs. If a student finishes a Bachelor Degree program in three years, chances are they could’ve done that at a campus just as efficiently as they’d done it online. The only real difference between online education and campus-based education is delivery. In the end, the student learns the same concepts; is tested on the same material; and graduates as the same well-rounded learner.