If you're thinking about signing up for an online program, it's wise to
know what you're getting into. Here's a checklist of questions to ask of the
schools you are considering.
What percentage of the coursework is presented online, in person,
via phone or on video?
Does the school require me to spend any time on campus?
Do you have any networking groups? What are the demographics of students
taking courses online?
Are you accredited? If so, by whom? Is the program of study accredited?
How long has the school been offering courses online?
What are tuition, fees, books and supplies going to cost? What other
expenses will I incur?
Is the tuition comparable to a full-time program? If so, are the services
the same?
What is the school's refund policy
What training do faculty members receive?
What is the student to instructor ratio?
How many online courses does the school offer?
Do the same professors teach online and on-campus courses?
Can you provide the names and phone numbers of graduates in my area
of expertise or in my town?
Are classes synchronous (meaning you must be in a chat room at a particular
time) or asynchronous (meaning you post your comments whenever)?
Do I have to take proctored exams? Where and how will that happen?
Is the program ongoing, or is there a particular start date?
Will I move through the program with a single group or on my own?
What is your dropout rate?
How many hours of work are involved each week?
What are your refund policies?
Do I have to buy my books from your store?
What kinds of financial aid are available to you?
Does my employer have a program with your school?
How can I get my employer to pick up the tab for this degree?
What prior experience must applicants have?
Does the school accept transfer credits?
What are the student services that will be available to you if you
enroll?
Is there a technical support line? Is it effective?
What are the time limits within which you must complete a program of
study?
Is the program flexible? Can you start and stop at will or are you
locked in once you start?
How long does it take to get through the program?
What is the drop-out rate for the program I'm interested in?
What is the graduation rate for that program?
What are the job-placement rates for graduates of the program?
What career counseling and placement options are available, and how
long after graduation can I access those services?
For information about any of the online
degree programs, click and the program of your choice from the right hand side
and request FREE information.
Online Schools
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