Distance education programs have been around for much longer than many may assume. While many think of a distance education program as an online program that spans the country or the globe, the truth is that the first distance education system was developed in 1728 as a course taught by mail. Now, with advanced computer-based technologies, schools can offer completely online curriculum to students. Online programs were launched in 1994, and has recently become one of the fastest growing options to busy students. If you know that you want to earn a business degree and you are debating whether you should join the 18 million students taking online degree programs in 2014, read on to learn the benefits of distance education.
Studies Show Online Business Students Perform Better
There has been what many call a global debate on whether or not college students can really learn valuable skills and retain information that they access online. While academic performance depends entirely upon the student, a lot of studies have been conducted that compare traditional and online program performance. Based on a meta-analysis that was conducted by the United States Department of Education, online students in online business degree programs and other online degree programs perform better than traditional students on average. The online conditions have been proven to be successful in helping students broaden their knowledge in the field of business and in different specializations.
The Costs of Earning a Business Degree Online
There is a common belief that tuition fees are lower when attending an online school compared to a traditional 4-year school, but this is not always the case. Operational costs may be lower on the online platform, but the cost of credits depends on many different factors. While it is not a definite that tuition fees will be lower when you earn your business degree online, it is a fact that the entire costs of earning an online degree are lower. The cost o supplies, the cost travel, and materials costs are all eliminated or lowered, and this makes it a more affordable choice to earn a business degree via the Internet, especially when you choose an accredited school that has access to Federal Financial Aide.
Put Value to Your Time and Your Current Career
If you are currently employed, earning your business degree online will help you enjoy flexibility so that you can study while you work. You must place a value on your current goals and your time when you are enrolling in school, and if your time is very valuable to you, you can get the most from studying online. As long as you take the time to find a school that is accredited and a business program that is highly acclaimed, you can make the most of your time and still earn a formal degree while you are employed.
If you are an independent learner and you are technically savvy, you should have no difficulty studying for your business degree online. With so many different online institutions to choose from and many that are actually accredited, the sky is the limit. Start identifying which schools have an accreditation, which programs are best for business majors, and which elective classes you would like to take for your future business specialization.
